The Cost of Expungement in New Jersey

The Cost of Getting Your Record Expunged in New Jersey

Getting your criminal record expunged in New Jersey can be a complicated process, but it may be worth it if your record is making things difficult for you. An expungement can open up opportunities for jobs, housing, education, and more. However, there are costs involved in getting your record cleared. Here’s what you need to know about the price of expungement in NJ.

Filing Fees

The first expense is the actual filing fee to submit your expungement petition. This fee is set by the state and is currently $52.50. This covers the administrative costs of processing your petition. It’s a relatively small fee, but still part of the total cost.

Attorney Fees

While you can pursue expungement on your own through the court system, most people choose to hire an attorney. Lawyers who specialize in expungements know the ins and outs of the process. They can make sure your petition is filled out properly, represent you at hearings, and give your case the best possible chance at success.

The cost for an attorney can vary quite a bit though. Some lawyers may charge $700-$800 for basic cases. Large law firms could charge up to $2,000 or more. Most fall somewhere in the middle – around $1,000-$1,500 on average. The exact fee depends on factors like:

• Your specific criminal history
• Complexity of your case
• Amount of court appearances needed
• Whether you hire a private attorney or use a legal aid clinic

So shop around to find the best value. Ask about what’s included in the quoted fee, as some lawyers charge extra for court appearances or other expenses.

Additional Expenses

On top of the filing and attorney fees, there may be other smaller costs that add up:

• Court transcripts – $100+ per transcript
• Background checks – $50-$100 to get your records
• Mailings – Postage and copying costs to notify required agencies
• Travel – Gas, tolls, parking for court dates

These little expenses can tack on a couple hundred bucks potentially. It’s good to budget for miscellaneous costs so you’re prepared.

Total Expungement Costs

When all is said and done, expect to spend $800 – $1,500+ to get your criminal record sealed in New Jersey through the traditional court process. Here is a rough breakdown:

• Filing Fees – $52.50
• Attorney Fees – $700-$1,500
• Additional Expenses – $100-$300
• Total Estimate = $850 to $1,900+

Of course, every case is different, so your actual costs may end up lower or higher. But this gives you a ballpark range to expect.

It’s not a small amount of money for most people. However, clearing your record opens up better job opportunities, which can earn you far more income over time. So consider it an investment in your future.

Ways to Reduce Your Expungement Costs

If the price tag seems too high, there are some options to lower your overall expungement costs:

• Do-It-Yourself – You can petition the court for expungement on your own without an attorney. This cuts out those legal fees, but you’ll need to do all the paperwork and research properly.
• Legal Clinics – Some non-profit legal aid organizations and law schools offer low-cost help with expungements. This provides affordable legal advice without the expense of a private lawyer.
• Online Services – A few online sites like LegalCleanup.com and ClearMyRecord.com offer DIY expungement document preparation services for a fraction of a typical lawyer’s fee. You get step-by-step guidance to complete the process yourself.
• Payment Plans – Many attorneys allow you to set up monthly payment plans to divide those legal fees over time into more manageable installments.
• Expungement Assistance Programs – A small number of counties have programs to help cover expungement costs for those in need through grants, fee waivers and pro bono attorneys. Availability is limited, but can provide financial assistance if you qualify.

The expungement process takes some time and effort, but being proactive pays off. Taking action to clear your record now can improve your quality of life for years to come. Don’t let the cost deter you from pursuing it. Shop around for affordable options and use payment plans if needed. An expungement is a smart investment that removes barriers so you can reach your full potential.