21 Feb ABKLaw BLOG: Sealing
BLOG from our #ABKLaw Partner Michael Jaccarino, Esq.: Sealing
In 2017, New York State passed a new sealing law that enables anyone who has been convicted of a crime to have his or her records sealed. This was huge! Why aren’t we hearing from more of you about this?
The reason is, outside of legal circles, most people have never heard of this sealing bill. Everyone, especially anyone who was convicted of a crime, should be aware of this bill. It can help you tremendously.
What is it? Criminal Procedure Law 160.59 allows people who have been convicted in no more than two cases to apply to seal certain convictions if certain requirements are met:
-Only one of the convictions can be a felony;
-10 years must have passed since the sentencing or release form jail or prison;
-The conviction cannot be a sex offense, violent felony or serious felony.
How does it work? If you are eligible for sealing, our office can petition the court, which will include the filing of an application, sworn statements, certificate of disposition, and reasons why sealing should be granted. If the court grants your application, your records will not be able to be seen by any person or public or private agency. This could impact license applications, mortgage requests, employment applications, etc. Do you have a conviction from your youth that haunts you? A DWI from high school that comes up every time you apply for a new job?
Contact our office today to find out more about this bill and how it can impact you. 212-486-0011
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