A criminal conviction can create significant barriers to employment, housing, and professional opportunities. Whether you’re in Nassau County or Suffolk County, the consequences can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, New York’s criminal record sealing law offers a path forward, allowing eligible individuals to move past their convictions and build a brighter future.
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, our experienced Long Island criminal defense lawyers help residents across Long Island navigate the process of applying to seal their criminal records. If you’ve remained crime-free for a significant period, you may qualify for this opportunity to reset your life.
What Does Sealing a Criminal Record Mean in Long Island?
Sealing your criminal record means the conviction is hidden from public view. Employers, landlords, and most other entities conducting background checks will no longer see the sealed conviction. However, certain agencies, such as law enforcement and immigration officials, will still have access to the record.
For residents of Nassau County and Suffolk County, sealing a record can offer relief from the lasting impact of a conviction. It’s a way to reclaim privacy, improve opportunities, and leave past mistakes behind.
New York’s Sealing Law: How Can Long Islanders Apply?
New York’s sealing law, passed in 2017, allows eligible individuals to seal up to two criminal convictions. However, not all convictions qualify. Understanding the rules is an important first step.
Eligibility Requirements
- Ten Years Without Further Offenses:
- You must have avoided new convictions for at least 10 years.
- The 10-year period begins from your last conviction or release from incarceration, whichever is later.
- Number of Convictions:
- You can request to seal up to two convictions:
- Two misdemeanors, or
- One felony and one misdemeanor
- If you were convicted of multiple offenses in a single incident, the court may treat them as one conviction.
- No Current Criminal Charges:
- You cannot have any ongoing criminal cases or pending charges.
- Court Approval:
- Even if you meet the criteria, the court decides whether your record will be sealed.
Offenses That Cannot Be Sealed:
Certain convictions are excluded from this law, including sex crimes, violent felonies, and Class A felonies.
Why Long Island Residents Should Consider Sealing their Conviction Records
Sealing your record can change your life in several ways:
- Improved Job Prospects: Many employers in Nassau County and Suffolk County conduct background checks. Sealing your record removes the conviction from their view, helping you compete for better positions.
- Better Housing Options: Landlords often reject applicants with criminal records. Sealing your conviction can help you secure housing in competitive markets.
- Career Advancement: Some professions, such as healthcare, education, and finance, require background checks. A sealed record can open doors in these fields.
- Renewed Confidence: Knowing your record is no longer public can help you focus on the future without lingering worries about the past.
How the Criminal Record Sealing Process Works on Long Island
The process of sealing a conviction in New York involves several steps. It’s important to follow these steps carefully, especially if your case originated in Nassau County or Suffolk County.
- Prepare and File a Motion
- A motion is a formal request to the court asking for your record to be sealed. This document should explain your conviction, your efforts to turn your life around, and why sealing your record serves justice.
- Notify the District Attorney’s Office
- You must inform the District Attorney’s Office in the county where your conviction occurred:
- For Nassau County convictions, notify the Nassau County District Attorney’s Office.
- For Suffolk County convictions, notify the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office.
- Court Review and Possible Hearing
- Once the motion is filed, the court will review your case. In some cases, a hearing is scheduled to allow you and your attorney to present evidence supporting your request. The District Attorney’s Office may also provide feedback.
- Final Decision
- The judge will consider factors such as your rehabilitation, the nature of your conviction, and your contributions to society. If approved, your record will be sealed, making it inaccessible to the public.
Why Local Legal Experience Matters in Sealing Your Conviction Record in Long Island
The procedures for record sealing can differ by county. Courts in Nassau County and Suffolk County each have their own rules and expectations.
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we know the ins and outs of these Long Island courts. We work closely with clients to prepare strong applications that reflect their rehabilitation and readiness to move forward.
Illustrative Examples of Sealing Criminal Convictions
- Successful Sealing in Nassau County
Maria, a Nassau County resident, had two misdemeanor convictions—petit larceny and drug possession—on her record. After maintaining a crime-free life for over a decade, she sought to have her criminal record sealed. With expert legal assistance, Maria’s sealing application was granted, helping her secure better job opportunities and more stable housing.
- A Fresh Start for Michael in Suffolk County
Michael, living in Suffolk County, had been convicted of petit larceny and drug possession over ten years ago. He remained out of trouble since serving his sentences and met all the criteria for sealing his record. The court approved his application, clearing his criminal convictions from public view and significantly improving his prospects for better housing and employment.
- Turning a New Page in Nassau County
After serving time for petit larceny and drug possession convictions over 12 years ago, Michael stayed out of trouble and decided to apply for sealing his record. As he met the eligibility requirements, his application was granted, removing his convictions from public view. This provided Michael with a fresh start, enabling him to secure a job and find a new place to live.
These examples demonstrate how sealing criminal convictions can provide individuals with the opportunity for a fresh start, improving their chances for employment, housing, and career advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sealing Long Island Conviction Records
- Can violent crimes be sealed?
No, violent felonies, Class A felonies, and certain other offenses like sex crimes cannot be sealed under this law.
- What if I have more than two convictions?
If your convictions arose from the same incident, the court may treat them as one. Otherwise, you might not qualify.
- How long does the sealing process take?
It usually takes several months from filing the motion to the court’s decision.
- Is hiring an attorney necessary?
While not required, having a lawyer improves your chances of success by ensuring your application is complete and persuasive.
- Will sealed records show up on background checks?
No, sealed records are hidden from most background checks. However, certain agencies, like law enforcement and immigration officials, may still access them.
Start Your Journey Toward Sealing Your Criminal Record in Long Island
At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we specialize in helping clients throughout Nassau County and Suffolk County seal their criminal records and unlock new opportunities. With our expertise in criminal record sealing, we guide you through every step of the process to ensure the best possible outcome.
Contact us for a free consultation to learn how we can assist you in sealing your criminal record. Let us help you take control of your future and move forward with confidence.
