A criminal record - even for an old charge or one that was dismissed - can follow you for years. It can affect your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, obtain a professional license, or pass a background check. Massachusetts law gives many people a path to seal their records and move forward. If you have a past arrest or conviction on the South Shore, it may be worth finding out whether you qualify.

What Does Sealing Mean?

Sealing a criminal record means the record is hidden from most background checks. It still exists, but it is not accessible to employers, landlords, or the general public. Law enforcement and certain government agencies can still see sealed records in specific circumstances.

Sealing is different from expungement - which completely destroys the record. Expungement is available in limited circumstances in Massachusetts.

Who Can Petition to Seal?

Convictions

Most misdemeanor and felony convictions can be sealed after a waiting period:

• Misdemeanors: 3 years after the conviction date or release from incarceration, whichever is later

• Felonies: 7 years after the conviction date or release, whichever is later

During the waiting period, you cannot have any new convictions.

Dismissed Cases and Non-Convictions

Cases that were dismissed, resulted in a not guilty verdict, or received a CWOF (Continuance Without a Finding) that was later dismissed can often be sealed immediately - with no waiting period.

Offenses That Cannot Be Sealed

Certain convictions cannot be sealed under Massachusetts law, including:

• Sex offenses requiring registration as a sex offender

• Crimes against children

• Murder and certain other violent offenses

How to Seal Your Record

There are two paths:

Administrative sealing: For eligible records, you can petition the Commissioner of Probation directly. This is a paper process and does not require a court hearing. Results typically take several months.

Court petition: Some cases require petitioning the court directly. This is also an option if you want to make arguments for why sealing should be granted.

Expungement in Massachusetts

Massachusetts created a limited expungement process in 2018. Expungement is available for:

• Offenses committed when you were under 21

• Offenses that are no longer crimes under current law

• Cases involving identity fraud (you were charged under someone else's identity)

Why This Matters on the South Shore

Many people across Plymouth County carry old records from youthful mistakes that continue to limit their opportunities decades later. Sealing your record will not erase what happened - but it gives you the chance to be evaluated on who you are today.

Sofio Law LLC helps South Shore residents evaluate their eligibility and navigate the sealing process. Contact us for a confidential consultation to review your record and options.