Las Vegas Record Sealing Attorney: Start Fresh Today
A criminal record can impact almost any aspect of your life, including employment, housing, education, and even your personal life. Although the past cannot be undone, there may be a way to secure a clean slate by sealing your criminal record. If you believe you are eligible to have your record sealed, it helps you to know the Nevada record sealing timeline. If you have questions about your eligibility for record sealing in Nevada, contact The Vegas Lawyers today by calling (725) 217-4768 to schedule your free consultation.
What Does It Mean to “Seal” a Criminal Record in Nevada?
In the past, a person’s criminal history was more difficult to access, requiring in-person visits to government offices or written requests. Today, however, that same information can be obtained online in moments, often complicating job searches, housing applications, and even social relationships. Understandably, that has increased the interest in the ability to seal or expunge criminal records.
In Nevada, sealing your criminal history does not completely erase the record; however, it does make the record invisible to the general public. Once sealed, your criminal records are removed from public view and law enforcement databases used in routine background checks. Certain entities still retain access to a “sealed” record, such as the Nevada Gaming Commission, prosecutors under limited circumstances, licensing boards, and parties with court-ordered permission.
Are All Convictions Eligible for Sealing in Nevada?
Unlike many other states that limit eligibility to only low-level offenses, Nevada allows for a wide range of convictions to be sealed. Nonetheless, some offenses remain ineligible due to their serious nature. Crimes that cannot be sealed in Nevada include:
- Offenses involving minors under the age of 18
- Sexual offenses
- Felony DUI or drug-impaired driving convictions
- Home invasion involving a deadly weapon
If your conviction does not fall into these categories, you may be eligible to petition the court to have your record sealed.
What Is the Nevada Record Sealing Timeline?
If you have a criminal record that is adversely affecting your life, you undoubtedly want it sealed as soon as possible. When the Nevada record sealing timeline starts and how long the process will take depends on several factors.
If you were arrested but never convicted, you may request to have those records sealed without waiting, meaning the timeline for sealing can begin immediately. If you were convicted of a crime, however, you must first complete all elements of your sentence, which includes serving jail or prison time, completing probation or parole, and fulfilling all court-imposed conditions such as community service or restitution. Additionally, you must pay all fines, fees, and court costs before a mandatory waiting period begins. The length of this waiting period depends on the classification of the conviction and begins after your release from custody or your discharge from parole or probation, whichever comes last. The applicable waiting periods are as follows:
- Class A or B Felonies: 15 Years
- Class C or D Felonies: 12 Years
- Class E Felonies: 10 Years
- Gross Misdemeanors: 7 Years
- Other Misdemeanors: 3 Years
Once the required waiting period has expired, there are several steps you must take to get your record sealed in Nevada. The process begins by obtaining a Shared Computer Operations for Protection and Enforcement Report (SCOPE) from the applicable law enforcement agency. You will also need a copy of the Judgment of Conviction and Discharge to prove when the case was closed. Once you have the necessary documents, you can prepare your petition and seek approval from the District Attorney’s office. Only after completing these preliminary steps will you file the petition with the court having jurisdiction. If the judge approves your request to seal your criminal record, you must then distribute the signed copies to all relative law enforcement agencies. According to the Nevada State Police, it typically takes two to four months after receipt of the signed Order for your record to officially be removed.
What Should I Do If I Need Help Sealing My Criminal Record in Las Vegas?
If you need assistance getting your criminal record sealed in Law Vegas, consult with a Law Vegas record sealing attorney at The Vegas Lawyers as soon as possible to discuss your next steps. Call us at 702-707-7000 or contact us online.