If your teenager has gotten in trouble with the law, one of your biggest concerns as a parent is how this will impact their future. You’re right to be worried: Many significant decision-makers in your child’s life will look into a criminal record, including colleges, employers, and landlords. Luckily, a juvenile lawyer may be able to have the conviction sealed. Find out how it works in Ohio, below. 

Eligibility for Sealing Juvenile Charges

In Ohio, all juvenile charges are eligible for expungement except aggravated murder and rape. This means the file is removed from the court’s records and sent to a separate, secure location. Only the courts and a few other government agencies will be able to access this documentation. 

If your child simply had a brush with the law but no formal complaint was filed, the record is sealed automatically. The same is true if the courts dismissed the complaint after a trial or found them to not be a delinquent, unruly, or a juvenile traffic offender. In cases of underage drinking, the record may be sealed if the youth complete a diversion program.

Petitioning for Expungement 

You can obtain an application for expungement from the juvenile court where the records are located. In addition to filling out this form, you should provide supporting documents attesting to your child’s character. This could include everything from volunteer work to report cards. Consult a juvenile lawyer on what paperwork to submit.

Next, file the application with the Clerk of Courts. The prosecutor’s office will then be notified and, if they don’t object, the records will be sealed. If they do object, a court hearing will be needed and a judge will determine whether they should be sealed or not. A juvenile lawyer can also represent you here.

Don’t risk an uncertain future for your child. Let Michael A. Newland Esquire of Hamilton, OH, work with your family to have their record expunged. This juvenile lawyer is dedicated to his clients, making himself available to them via both phone and email at almost all hours. Serving residents throughout Butler County Since 1989, he is known for his personable and friendly approach. He also practices in other areas; whether you need a will, power of attorney,  criminal  attorney or a DUI lawyer, he can help. Request a meeting online or by calling (513) 887-9595.