SEAL YOUR CONVICTIONS

The consequences of criminal conviction last a lifetime. Convictions can prevent certain licensing, job opportunities, and government service programs. Thanks to a recent change in New York State Law, you can now seal or “expunge” certain criminal convictions. 

Although New York state does not allow “expungement” of records, sealing is the next best thing. Under our NYS Law, sealing your record means that it is sealed from the general public and most private agencies. The exceptions include: police authority, firearms authority, Child Protective Services, and a handful of governmental agencies.

WE CAN DETERMINE IF YOU ARE ELIGIBLE

 One Statute we utilize to seal convictions is codified under New York State Criminal Procedure Law § 160.59. Under this Law, eligible convictions that are 10 years or older can be sealed.

Eligible offenses include many drug-related misdemeanor and felony convictions, such as the possession and sale of marijuana or controlled substances, or the possession of drug paraphernalia. Additionally, convictions for “specified offenses” under New York Criminal Procedure Law such as burglary, criminal mischief and forgery can also be sealed. Further, misdemeanor and felony traffic charges, such as DWI and DWAI are eligible for sealing. In addition to an eligible offense, you must have any pending criminal charges or warrants lodged against you.

CRIMES THAT ARE NOT ELIGIBLE

Certain crimes are not eligible to be sealed and will not even be considered by New York State. These crimes include sex offenses, violent crimes, and many crimes involving moral turpitude. Criminal records that are not eligible for sealing include sex offenses, violent crimes, and certain other enumerated felonies and misdemeanors.

WE CAN HELP – WE HAVE DONE THIS FOR PEOPLE JUST LIKE YOU

If we determine that you are eligible to seal your record, (up to 1 felony and 1 misdemeanor) we will file the appropriate motions within the New York State Court System to seal your record. This process can take time…we’ve seen cases sealed from anywhere between 3 weeks and 6 months. Once the Court does approve the motion, the Court will notify the NYS Department of Criminal Justice Services and your convictions will be sealed

RECORDS THAT CANNOT BE SEALED?

If the record is not eligible to be sealed under New York State law, it may be possible to obtain a Certificate of Relief from Disabilities or Certificate of Good Conduct.