How Much Does a Misdemeanor Expungement Cost in Mississippi? (Filing Fees & Attorney Costs)

A past misdemeanor conviction on your criminal record can hold you back from getting a decent job, renting an apartment, or obtaining professional licenses in Mississippi. Many people assume that minor offenses simply fall off their record after a few years, but this is a myth. The only way to remove a criminal conviction is by filing a formal petition in court. While the legal process involves financial costs, it is an investment in your future. This guide breaks down the financial requirements of clearing your name. You can find experienced local attorneys to help you navigate this process in our US Lawyer Directory.

Court Filing Fees in MS

The first major expense you will encounter is the court filing fee. In Mississippi, you must file your petition for expungement in the specific court where you were originally convicted. For a misdemeanor, this is usually a Municipal Court or Justice Court. Filing fees vary slightly depending on the county and the exact court, but generally, you should budget approximately $150.

For example, filing a petition at the Hinds County Justice Court, Jackson or the Harrison County Justice Court, Gulfport will typically cost between $140 and $160. This fee must usually be paid upfront when you submit your legal documents to the clerk of the court. If your case was transferred or appealed, you might be required to file in a Circuit Court, such as the Madison County Circuit Court, Canton, which may have its own distinct fee structure.

Hidden Costs Like Securing Court Transcripts and Background Reports

Beyond the standard filing fee, there are administrative costs you must prepare for. Before you or your attorney can file the petition, you must obtain a certified copy of your criminal history. You will need to request a background check from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Jackson through its Criminal Information Center, which generally requires submitting an official Mississippi Criminal History Record Request Form along with fingerprints on Form FD-258, FED, FBI, Applicant Fingerprint Card and paying a processing fee of around $10 to $30.

Additionally, you must acquire a certified disposition of your case (a document showing the exact outcome, the sentence, and proof that all fines were paid). The court clerk will charge a small copying and certification fee, usually between $5 and $15, to produce this official record.

Attorney Costs vs. Pro Se Risks

You have the right to represent yourself (known as filing "pro se"), which saves you attorney fees. However, expungement law under Miss. Code Ann. § 99-19-71 is incredibly strict. If you file the wrong paperwork, miss a procedural deadline, or apply to expunge a charge that is not eligible, a judge can dismiss your petition without refunding your filing fee.

Hiring a private attorney ensures the paperwork is flawless and that you are thoroughly prepared for any objections from the local prosecutor. For a standard misdemeanor expungement in Mississippi, average attorney fees typically range from $750 to $1,500. This flat fee usually covers drafting the petition, pulling your background records, scheduling the hearing, and representing you in front of the judge.

Long-Term Career Benefits of Expungement

When weighing the upfront costs, it is vital to consider the long-term return on investment. Under Mississippi law, once an order of expungement is granted, you are legally permitted to answer "no" on job applications when asked if you have ever been arrested or convicted of that crime. Removing a permanent blemish from your background check opens doors to higher-paying employment, better housing opportunities, and educational loans. The $1,000 to $2,000 spent on the legal process is frequently recouped quickly through improved job prospects.

Step-by-Step Breakdown of Expungement Costs

Here is a summary of the common expenses you might encounter:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)