Can Juvenile Records Be Sealed in Washington?

For many people, a mistake made in their youth shouldn’t follow them for the rest of their life. Yet in Washington, juvenile court records don’t disappear automatically when someone turns 18. Without action, those records remain accessible to the public and can show up on background checks—impacting employment, housing, education, and even firearm rights. Fortunately, Washington law allows many people to seal their juvenile records and move forward with a clean slate.

Why Sealing Matters

Sealing a juvenile record means the court file and related documents are no longer available to the public. Once sealed, most employers, landlords, schools, and background check agencies cannot access those records. You are also legally permitted to deny the existence of the sealed offense in most situations. That makes a significant difference when applying for jobs, housing, college, or military service. It can also help restore eligibility for certain rights and licenses.

Under RCW 13.50.260, juvenile courts in Washington regularly hold administrative hearings to determine whether records should be sealed. In many lower-level cases—such as misdemeanors or non-violent felonies—the court is required to seal the record automatically if certain conditions are met. Those conditions typically include:

  • The individual has turned 18
  • All terms of the sentence (including probation and confinement) are completed
  • All legal financial obligations, including restitution, have been paid
  • There are no new criminal charges or pending cases

If those requirements are satisfied, the court may seal the record without the individual needing to take any action beyond showing up at the hearing.

When a Formal Petition Is Required

Some offenses do not qualify for automatic sealing and require the person to file a motion or petition with the court. These typically include:

  • Class A felonies
  • Sex offenses
  • Certain drug convictions
  • Any case where a prior sealing request was denied

In these situations, the court will review whether the person has remained crime-free for a number of years (usually two to five, depending on the offense) and whether they have fulfilled all other obligations. The court may also consider the person’s rehabilitation, public safety concerns, and input from victims or prosecutors.

What Happens If There’s an Objection?

If the prosecutor or alleged victim objects to the sealing of a record, the court will schedule a contested hearing. At that hearing, the person seeking to seal their record has a chance to present evidence, explain the positive changes they’ve made, and argue why sealing is appropriate. Having an attorney at this stage can be critical to successfully responding to objections and persuading the court that the record should be sealed.

What Sealing Does—and Doesn’t Do

Sealing hides the juvenile record from the public, including employers, landlords, and licensing boards. However, the record may still be accessible to courts or law enforcement under specific circumstances. Sealing also does not automatically restore firearm rights. If the underlying offense disqualified the person from gun ownership, a separate process is needed to restore that right.

How We Can Help

At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we help individuals throughout Washington understand their eligibility and navigate the juvenile record sealing process. Whether your case qualifies for administrative sealing or requires a formal motion, we will guide you through every step—ensuring your rights are protected and your future isn’t defined by past mistakes.

If you or your child has a juvenile record that’s holding you back, we can help you move forward. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.