Even after being released from prison, a criminal conviction can have a significant negative effect on a person's life. It may be more challenging to find housing, employment, volunteer opportunities, or even insurance policies if you have a history of criminal offenses, but a recent law in Washington state may help to break down these barriers.
Seal your juvenile record.
Put your childhood mistakes behind you.
Washington Juvenile Record Sealing
In Washington, juvenile court records do not automatically disappear when you turn 18. Almost all your juvenile records remain open to the public unless you ask the court to have your record sealed. However, before approaching the court, you need to know if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you qualify, you can clear your juvenile record.
It’s important to seal those records in order to qualify for housing assistance and student loans. The only way to seal your record is to take a specific series of actions. Our team can help you seal your juvenile record like it never existed.
For example, if any involved law enforcement agencies are contacted regarding your juvenile record, they would say something along the lines: "they have no record of the matter." All the details of your juvenile offenses will also be deleted from the national databases used for background checks. Lastly, you will be able to legally and honestly state that you have never been adjudicated or arrested on job and housing applications.
Our law firm specializes in juvenile record sealing in Washington, and we pride ourselves on consistently producing positive outcomes for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I clear my juvenile record?
If you qualify, you can clear your juvenile record. This will require you to ask the court to “seal” your juvenile record by filing a motion with the court.
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Does my juvenile record show up on background checks?
In Washington, juvenile court records do not automatically disappear when you turn 18. In fact, almost all your juvenile records remain open for the public to view, unless you ask a court to have your record sealed.
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Will my juvenile record affect college admission?
Over 600 colleges and universities use the Common Application, which includes a check box asking applicants about any past juvenile crimes. Of those, about 20% of colleges have denied admission based on the young person's record.
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Will my juvenile record student loan applications?
Yes, it can impede your ability to obtain student loans, at least for a period of time depending on the type of student aid you are applying for.
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Does my juvenile record negatively affect my credit report?
Criminal records are not on your consumer credit report. They can be included in background checks, which are usually for employment purposes. According to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), the employer must have the consumer's written authorization to conduct a background check.
Our Blog
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08/31/2022Juvenile Record Sealing and Juvenile Record Expungement: What are the Differences and Benefits of Each?Read MoreThe state of Washington permits juveniles to have their records sealed. This also applies to adults who want their juvenile records sealed after reaching the juvenile age requirement. Section 13.50.050 of the Annotated Revised Code of Washington allows those with a juvenile record to have the record sealed. You may have a public record if you have a juvenile conviction in Washington.
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06/30/2022The Numerous Ways in Which a Juvenile Record Can Limit College Opportunities.Read MoreJuvenile records on your history can damage your chances of getting into the college of your dreams. Even if you have an impressive high school transcript, any form of juvenile conviction on your record will make college admissions considerably more difficult. It may also have an impact on your ability to obtain a student loan.
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05/30/2022Why Do You Need an Attorney for the Expungement Procedure?Read MoreDo you have a criminal record in Washington State prohibiting you from creating the life you want? If so, getting your record expunged can significantly elevate career and housing opportunities.
Juvenile Records Can Impact Students Loans and College Admissions
If you have any childhood charges against you, it's best to get them sealed through a professional law firm. It can impede your ability to obtain student loans, at least for some time, depending on the type of student aid you are applying for.
Washington Record Engagement has a team of experienced lawyers who can help you seal your past records in an effective and timely manner. We’ve seen universities denying admission to students based on their past juvenile crimes. That’s why we are here; we can help you clear up your childhood records so you can focus on building your career. Why wait? Get in touch with us today.
