Document Type

Article

Original Publication Date

2026

Journal/Book/Conference Title

A Path Towards Housing Sustainability: Eviction Record Expungement Reform

Date of Submission

April 2026

Abstract

The Problem: Confronting the "Scarlet Letter" of Housing

No Virginian should be denied a home because of a dismissed legal filing or a resolved financial hurdle from the past. In Virginia, the mere filing of an unlawful detainer (eviction) creates a permanent public record regardless of the outcome. The new permanent record acts as a "scarlet letter" in the form of a 7 to 10 year shameful blemish on their public record.

Is Part Of

VCU Grace E. Harris Leadership Institute Publications

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