Recent Changes in Law Means Shorter Waiting Period for Record Sealing

In June, Governor Brian Sandoval signed Assembly Bill 327, which declared the official policy of Nevada as favoring second chances for those convicted of crimes by offering rehabilitated offenders the chance to seal their records in much less time than before.

Before, those convicted of crimes in Nevada had to wait as long as fifteen (15) years in some cases before being eligible to have their records sealed. Under the old rules, a person convicted of a Class A felony had to wait a minimum of fifteen (15) years while other people convicted of lower-class felonies faced mandatory waiting periods ranging anywhere from seven (7) to twelve (12) years. Even certain misdemeanors required a minimum of five (5) years.

Arrest Record

For a lot of people, during this economy, a simple arrest, even if the case was dismissed, often effects employment options. Many people believe your arrest record will simply go away after a period of time. This is completely wrong. Unless you petition the court to seal your record, the arrest will remain. Any employer can do a background check and find this arrest – even if you were never charged with a crime. And for individuals convicted of a crime, the conviction can have negative consequences long after the person serves jail time, probation, or other court ordered punishment.

Under the newly revised laws, the time required to seal one’s record has been significantly shortened. Class A felonies can now be sealed in a little as ten (10) years. Many Class B, C, and D felonies can be sealed in just five (5) years, many misdemeanors can now be eligible for sealing in as little as twelve (12) or twenty-four (24) months, depending on the charges.

Although some crimes can never be sealed, and other offenses may have specific waiting periods, the trend under the new law is to allow records to be sealed in significantly less time than before. Don’t let your arrest or prior conviction limit your career options. The attorneys at The Wright Law Group, P.C. can help you review your criminal history, determine your eligibility, and assist you in sealing your record if eligible.

If you want more information about having your record sealed, call us at 702-405-0001 to schedule a consultation.

You can visit our Record Sealing Site Page HERE.