Juvenile Records
A Youthful Mistake Shouldn't Follow Them Forever
Washington law allows most juvenile records to be sealed — removing them from public view so your child can pursue college, careers, and military service without a shadow from the past. We handle every step of the process.
Who Qualifies
Most Juvenile Records Can Be Sealed Under Washington Law
Washington courts recognize that young people deserve a second chance. The eligibility requirements depend on the type of offense, the age of the individual, and whether all court obligations have been met. Here are the key factors.
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Age Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old, or the juvenile court must have been dismissed for at least two years. The court looks at maturity and time since the offense to determine readiness.
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Completed Court Obligations
All conditions of your juvenile sentence must be satisfied — community service, restitution, probation, and any required treatment programs. Outstanding obligations will block sealing.
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No Pending Charges
You cannot have any pending criminal charges or active cases in any court. The court needs to see that you have moved beyond the juvenile justice system entirely.
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Class A Felony Limitations
Most juvenile offenses qualify for sealing, but certain serious offenses classified as Class A felonies or sex offenses have additional restrictions or may not be eligible.
How It Works
The Sealing Process, Step by Step
Sealing a juvenile record requires a formal court petition. The court will review the original offense, your conduct since, and whether sealing serves the interests of justice. Having an attorney who understands the juvenile court system makes the process significantly smoother.
- We review your juvenile court records and determine eligibility
- Gather evidence of rehabilitation — education, employment, community involvement
- Prepare and file the formal sealing petition with the juvenile court
- Notify all required parties including the prosecutor's office
- Represent you at the sealing hearing before the judge
- Confirm sealed records are removed from public databases after the order
Why It Matters
A Sealed Record Opens Doors That Were Closed
Even though juvenile records are supposed to be confidential, they can still surface in background checks and create real barriers. Sealing the record is the only way to ensure it stays private. Here is what changes when a record is sealed.
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College Applications
Most college applications ask about criminal history. A sealed juvenile record does not need to be disclosed, removing a significant barrier to higher education.
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Employment Opportunities
Background checks for jobs can uncover juvenile records. Once sealed, the record will not appear — giving your child a fair shot in the job market.
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Military Service
The armed forces conduct thorough background checks. A sealed juvenile record clears the path for those who want to serve their country.
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Housing Applications
Landlords increasingly run background checks. A sealed record means your child will not be turned away from housing because of a past mistake.
Common Questions
Record Sealing Questions, Answered
Who can have a juvenile record sealed in Washington?
Most juvenile offenses qualify. Eligibility depends on age, time since the offense, completing all court obligations — community service, restitution, probation, and treatment — and having no pending charges. Certain Class A felonies and sex offenses face additional restrictions.
Aren't juvenile records already confidential?
They are supposed to be, but they can still surface in background checks. Sealing the record is the only way to ensure it stays private.
Does a sealed record have to be disclosed on college applications?
No. A sealed juvenile record does not need to be disclosed — on college applications, job applications, or housing applications.
What does the sealing process involve?
A formal petition in juvenile court. We review the records and determine eligibility, notify the required parties including the prosecutor's office, represent your family at the hearing, and confirm sealed records are removed from public databases.
