Bill > SB748

This bill expands the process for victims of human trafficking to have their criminal records cleared, a process known as a "writ of vacatur." It broadens the definition of "ancillary matter" to include violations of probation or parole, contempt of court charges, failure to appear charges, and appeals related to bail or bond orders, all of which can now be vacated if they are connected to a qualifying offense. The bill also revises the definition of "qualifying offense" to include any felony that is not a violent felony, any misdemeanor, or specifically identified ancillary matters, rather than just specific convictions. Additionally, it clarifies that "official documentation" can be used to establish a victim's status and creates a rebuttable presumption that a person's involvement in an offense was due to being a victim of human trafficking if such documentation exists. The bill also allows for the vacatur of charges and arrests, not just convictions, and ensures that victims are discharged from any restitution obligations related to vacated offenses.

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https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/SB748