In cases of juvenile records, there are two record clearance options available in the state. In cases where the juvenile was not sent to the California Youth Authority, our local expungement attorneys can seal the record of conviction, if it is not for a crime listed in Welfare and Institution Code Section 707(b). If the juvenile was sent to the California Youth Authority and was later honorably discharged, we can then have a lawyer petition to have the verdict of guilty set aside, thereby releasing the juvenile from the penalties and disabilities of the conviction. If you need help with the sealing of juvenile records in Orange County, we are here to assist.
Contact our team for assistance with your juvenile records today.
Sealing Juvenile Criminal Records
Sealing juvenile records is a critical step in ensuring a fresh start for individuals who have been involved in juvenile offenses. The juvenile criminal justice system recognizes that minors may make mistakes, and it is designed to provide opportunities for rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, when juvenile criminal records remain unsealed, they can follow a person into adulthood, creating long-term consequences. An unsealed juvenile record can surface during background checks for employment, housing, and educational opportunities, causing potential employers, landlords, and schools to view applicants less favorably. This can severely limit career and life opportunities, making it harder to move forward.
Record Sealing Process
The record sealing process allows eligible individuals to request that their juvenile criminal records be legally sealed, meaning they are no longer accessible to the public. Once sealed, the record is treated as though it never existed, allowing individuals to truthfully state that they do not have a criminal record. This protection helps ensure that past mistakes do not define a person’s future. Without this step, even minor offenses from one’s youth could cast a shadow on their adult life, affecting their ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain financial aid for education.
Consulting an attorney familiar with juvenile offenses can help ensure the record-sealing process is completed smoothly and effectively.
How an Attorney Could Help with Sealing Juvenile Records
If, as a juvenile, you were convicted but were not sent to the California Youth Authority, our expungement attorneys in Orange County can petition the court to seal and destroy the records of your criminal records. These may include records of arrest relating to your case that are in the custody of the juvenile court, the probation officer, and any other agency in California, including law enforcement agencies and public officials in California. If you are required to register as a sex offender, sealing of the records will relieve you from registration.
In order to qualify for sealing of your juvenile records, you must not have been convicted of another felony or misdemeanor involving moral turpitude since your conviction was not for any of the crimes listed in Welfare and Institution Code Section 707(b). If our attorneys are able to get your records sealed, the proceedings in your case shall be deemed never to have occurred and you can deny ever having had the conviction on your records, which could help for future employment purposes.
If you were convicted as a juvenile and honorably discharged by the California Youth Authority, you may petition the court to set aside the verdict of guilty in your case and have the case dismissed. If our attorneys are able to get this granted, this will release you from all penalties and disabilities resulting from the conviction, including but not limited to any disqualification for employment or occupational license. Let our expungement attorneys assist you and your family in the sealing of juvenile records in Orange County.