Sealing Records

My case was dismissed. Why should I have it sealed?

If your record has been sealed, you are not required to disclose any information about the sealed case, including the mere fact that you were charged. You may state that you have not been criminally convicted, or that no such action has occurred. Employers, educational institutions, state and local government agencies, officials, landlords and employees shall not, in any application or interview or in any other way, require an applicant to disclose any information contained in sealed records. Applications of this type may not be denied solely because of the applicant’s refusal to disclose arrest and criminal record information that has been sealed. There are exceptions for prospective attorneys, licensed educators, and applicants to a criminal justice agency.

An order sealing a criminal record other than a conviction does not apply to such records when an inquiry concerning the information is made by another criminal justice agency. An order sealing a conviction record does not deny access to a court, law enforcement agency, criminal justice agency, prosecuting attorney, or party required by law to conduct a criminal history record check on an individual.

Please consult state law or legal counsel with any questions you may have.