Updated December 2019

If you’ve been convicted of a crime, that sentence can stay on your record years after you’ve already paid your debt to society. It affects your ability to pursue gainful employment, obtain housing, vote in elections, earn professional certifications, and even enroll in college courses. Fortunately, with the help of an attorney, some people qualify to have their records sealed or expunged.

What Does It Mean to Have Your Record Sealed or Expunged? 

When a criminal record is sealed, that means it’s no longer visible to the public, but government agencies still have access to these documents electronically. If a record is expunged, it’s completely destroyed. This option is usually only available in limited cases, like if the offender is under 18.

How Can You Get Your Criminal Record Sealed?

To get your record sealed, you must first submit a written application to the court. Once the court receives the request, they’ll conduct a hearing. The prosecutor will have an opportunity to object, at which point a defense attorney can present a counterargument to advocate for your interests.

A judge will hear both sides and ultimately decide to approve or deny your request. The court may also investigate you to see if you’ve rehabilitated since your conviction. 

Who Can Qualify to Have Their Record Sealed?

Since September 28, 2012, Senate Bill 337 allows people who have been convicted of a crime to seal their record if they meet one of the following conditions: 

• They only have one felony
• They have one felony and one misdemeanor 
• They have two or fewer misdemeanors 

If the individual has two felony convictions, they won’t qualify under the current legislation. In every situation, the judge has a right to deny the request at their discretion. Because there’s no guarantee that an application will be approved, it’s advisable to hire an attorney to advocate on the defendant’s behalf. 

What Other Reforms Are Possible Through Senate Bill 337? 

In addition to reducing the requirements for record sealing, Senate Bill 337 also protects some juvenile records from public inquiries and lifts certain restrictions for occupational licensing.

For example, more people qualify for jobs, like truck-driving and haircutting, thanks to the legislation. The bill also changed marijuana possession to a minor misdemeanor.

If you have questions about sealing your criminal record in Ohio, talk to the attorneys at Pater, Pater & Halverson. Since 1889, this Hamilton-based law firm has acted with integrity and compassion to defend the rights of their clients and advocate for their interests in court. From criminal law to juvenile court and traffic violations, the attorneys will take the time to understand your case and outline a sound legal strategy. To learn more about their services, visit the website or call (513) 867-1411 to speak with a criminal lawyer today