Criminal records are public information. They can be easily
accessed by anyone including government agencies, private companies and
organizations. Criminal record sealing is a legal process done to conceal your
legal charges from the database of criminal records in Nevada. All the details
of the criminal proceedings will be treated as if they never happened.
Benefits of Criminal
Record Sealing
Criminal record sealing helps lessen the disadvantages of having a criminal record.
This process returns your rights as a voter, your right to hold and keep an
office, your right to become a panel on a jury and your right to have a clean
criminal record for job opportunities. Therefore, when the person with a sealed
criminal record applies for a job, he can write “no” to questions pertaining to
criminal charges and convictions.
Reopening the Sealed
Criminal Record
In Clark County Nevada, once
sealed, the criminal information can never be reopened unless:
·
You petition the court to allow you review your
own criminal record
·
You are subsequently arrested for the same
violation or offense. Even if your case was dismissed before, it can still be
reviewed by the latest prosecutor.
·
You were found guilty of the accusations. Prosecutors
or those who are accused of the same offense may reopen your criminal record
for reference.
·
An agency was given the permission by the court
to inspect your criminal record for specific purposes such as issuing gaming
licenses and the like.
“How can I be
qualified for Criminal Record Sealing?”
Every case is unique. If you
have been acquitted, you may petition the court to seal your criminal record as
soon as possible. If you were convicted of the charges, you may petition the
court after a specific ‘waiting time’ and once you have been released from
probation or after you have settled the fine required. The most serious felony
cases require more or less 15 years of waiting time before the criminal record
can be sealed. Within the said period of time, the person should not be
arrested or accused of any offense except for minor traffic violations.
However, even if you are eligible for criminal record sealing, the court is
still “not obliged” to grant the process. It will always be on the discretion
of the judge whether or not he will approve your petition.
Getting Help from a
Criminal Defense Lawyer
The good news is that a skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney like Ross Goodman can help you convince the court
to grant the petition. You may also consult the defense lawyer
if you are unsure whether or not your case is qualified for criminal record
sealing. Call Ross at (702) 383 – 5088 for consultations.