Record sealing
Close the record that keeps turning up
An old arrest, a dismissed case or a conviction from years ago can still appear in background checks. Sealing closes it to most employers and landlords.
- 01
Check eligibility
Whether a record can be sealed depends on the offense, how it ended and how long ago. We check before you pay anything.
- 02
Gather the record
We pull the court and arrest records, so the petition lists every case that should be closed.
- 03
File the petition
We draft it, file it, and serve the prosecutor. Some courts decide on the papers; others set a short hearing.
- 04
Send the order on
Once it's granted, we send the order to the agencies that hold the record and give you copies for your own files.
The fee
One petition, one flat fee
Several cases in the same court can often go on one petition. We'll tell you if yours can.
Record sealing
One petition to seal an arrest or conviction record that the law allows you to seal. Paid in full when you sign. The court's filing fee is separate.
Eligibility checked before you sign
Petition drafted and filed
The hearing, if the court sets one
Copies of the order for employers and landlords
More than one case
Cases in the same court can often go on one petition. Cases in different courts are separate petitions, and we quote each before you sign.
Our fees pay for legal work. Court filing fees, lab retests, expert witnesses, transcripts and bond are costs paid to others, and we name each one with its amount before it's spent. A trial is quoted as its own flat fee once a trial date is set.
What people ask about sealing
How long does sealing take?
Usually a few months from filing, depending on the court's calendar and whether it sets a hearing.
Can I seal a conviction, or only an arrest?
Many convictions can be sealed after a waiting period, but not all. That's the first thing we check.
Will sealing hide the record from everyone?
From most employers, landlords and the public, yes. Some agencies, like law enforcement and certain licensing boards, can still see it.
Find out if your record can be sealed
We check eligibility on the first call, at no charge.