How to Seal Juvenile Record Las Vegas: Does a Juvenile Record Stay With You Forever? Clear Your Name Today
This guide explains how to seal a juvenile record in Las Vegas, Nevada. If you have a juvenile record and want to clear your name for jobs, college, or other opportunities, this page will walk you through the process, eligibility, and benefits of sealing your record. Whether you’re a young adult, a parent, or someone seeking a fresh start in Clark County, understanding how to seal your juvenile record is crucial for protecting your future.
The “Automatic Sealing” Myth That Ruins Futures
It is a story I hear all the time in my office.
A young man or woman walks in. They are 22 years old. They just graduated from college, or maybe they are applying for their dream job at a casino on the Strip. They are excited. They have worked hard. They fill out the application, and they check the box that says “No” where it asks about criminal history. Many job applications require you to disclose your criminal history unless your records are sealed.
Why did they check “No”? Because when they were 15, they got in trouble for shoplifting or a fight at school. Their parents told them, “Don’t worry, when you turn 18, your juvenile record is sealed automatically. It disappears.”
Then, a week later, they get the rejection letter. The background check came back flagged. A criminal record can negatively impact your opportunities with a potential employer.
They are confused. They are embarrassed. And they are panicked.
I am Attorney Michael Gowdey. For over 30 years, I have been fighting for the accused in Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas.
I am here to tell you the truth that the system often forgets to mention: In Nevada, juvenile records do NOT automatically seal when you turn 18.
That arrest from when you were a teenager? It is still there. The police can see it. The prosecutors can see it. And in certain deep background checks, employers can see it.
But there is good news. You can fix it. The legal process allows you to have your criminal record sealed, which removes it from most background checks.
Nevada has a specific legal process called Sealing Records. It is like a giant eraser for your past. If done correctly, it legally allows you to act as if the arrest never happened.
This guide will explain exactly why your record is still visible, the specific rules for sealing it in Clark County, and how The Law Offices of Michael I. Gowdey, Ltd. can help you finally get the clean slate you deserve.
Why Does a Juvenile Record Matter If I Am an Adult Now?
You might be thinking, “Who cares about a prank I pulled in 9th grade?”
The world has changed. Twenty years ago, background checks were hard to do. Today, we live in the “Information Age.” Data is everywhere.
Employers, colleges, and landlords run background checks for almost everything. Most employers will see a criminal conviction or certain criminal offenses if your record is not sealed, as these records remain in public view. Sealing your record removes this information from public view, protecting your privacy and improving your opportunities. A juvenile record acts like an anchor, holding you back just as you are trying to start your life.
The "Sheriff’s Card" (Gaming Work Card)
This is specific to Las Vegas. If you want to work in a casino—even as a valet or a server—you often need a work card from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Because gaming is a privileged industry, they look deep. Certain government agencies, such as the Nevada Gaming Control Board, may have access to sealed records for licensing purposes. A juvenile record for theft or drugs can disqualify you from getting that card. Without the card, you don’t get the job.
The Military
The military is incredibly strict right now. They view juvenile adjudications (convictions) seriously. If you try to enlist in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines with an open juvenile record, you will likely be rejected. Even if the recruiter likes you, their hands are tied. In certain circumstances, such as applying for sensitive military positions, sealed records may still be reviewed by authorities. Sealing the record is often the only way to get a waiver to serve your country.
College and Financial Aid (FAFSA)
While many colleges are moving away from asking about criminal history, some still do. More importantly, certain drug convictions can affect your eligibility for federal student loans and grants. Convictions for possession of a controlled substance are particularly relevant, as they can result in restrictions or loss of financial aid. You shouldn’t have to pay full tuition just because of a mistake you made when you were 16.
Housing Applications
Landlords in Henderson and Summerlin are strict. They run checks. If they see a history of vandalism or drug possession, they might deny your application. They view it as a risk to their property.
What Does “Sealing a Record” Actually Do?
Sealing a record is powerful. It is one of the best things the Nevada legislature has created for young people. The court can order sealing records for eligible individuals, and the process to seal criminal records is designed to help people move forward.
Legal Effect of Sealing
When a judge signs an Order to Seal Records, a few magical things happen:
The “Legal Lie”: Once the record is sealed, under Nevada Revised Statute 62H.170, the proceedings are deemed “never to have occurred.” This means if an employer asks, “Have you ever been arrested?” you can legally, honestly, and truthfully say “No.” You do not have to explain it. You do not have to mention it.
Agencies Involved
The court orders agencies to seal their files. This includes:
- The Police Department (Metro, Henderson PD, North Las Vegas PD)
- The District Attorney’s Office
- The Juvenile Probation Department
- The School Police
They physically (or digitally) remove your file from the public database. Sealed records are removed from public view, making them inaccessible to the general public and most background check entities. This provides you with a fresh start and protects your privacy. It becomes invisible to standard background checks.
Restoring Rights
Sealing the record restores civil rights that might have been lost, including the right to hold certain jobs or licenses. Sealing can also restore certain rights, such as the right to hold office, that may have been lost due to a conviction.
Am I Eligible to Seal My Juvenile Record in Nevada?
Not everyone can seal their record immediately. There are rules. The court wants to see that you have grown up and stayed out of trouble. Only those who meet certain conditions are eligible to have their records sealed.
Eligibility at Age 21
Generally, under Nevada law, you can petition the court to seal your records if:
- You have turned 21. Once you turn 21, most juvenile records can be sealed automatically if you petition for it. Wait, didn’t you say it wasn’t automatic? It is “automatic” in the sense that you have a right to it, but you still have to file the paperwork to make it happen. The court doesn’t do it for you.
Early Sealing Before 21
You don’t have to wait until you are 21! You can apply to seal your records earlier if:
- It has been at least three (3) years since your last adjudication (conviction) or referral.
- You have not been convicted of any felonies or misdemeanors involving “moral turpitude” (like lying or stealing) since your juvenile case.
- You have been rehabilitated to the satisfaction of the court.
This is where a lawyer is essential. If you are 19 and want to join the military or get a job, you can’t wait until 21. We can file a petition now arguing that you are rehabilitated. We show the judge your high school diploma, your job history, and your clean record to get it sealed early.
Exceptions to Sealing
There are very few exceptions, but they exist:
- If you were certified as an adult for a serious crime (like murder or sexual assault), those records are treated as adult records.
- Records involving sexual offenses, crimes against children, or false imprisonment are generally not eligible for sealing.
- Certain sex offenses usually require a much longer waiting period or cannot be sealed.
What Is the Process to Seal a Record in Clark County?
This is why people hire us. The process is not hard to understand, but it is tedious. The record sealing process requires careful preparation of record sealing forms, which may differ depending on whether your petition is filed in district court or justice court.
Step 1: Obtain SCOPE (The Background Check)
We can’t seal what we don’t know about. First, we have to get a copy of your criminal history (SCOPE) from the police and the Clark County Juvenile Justice Services. Sometimes clients forget they had two arrests, not just one. We have to find everything.
Step 2: Draft Petition
We write a legal document called a Petition to Seal Records. In this document, we list:
- Every date of arrest
- Every charge
- The final outcome (probation, dismissal, etc.)
- The arresting agency (this is crucial—if we miss an agency, they won’t seal their records!)
Step 3: Submission to the District Attorney
Before the judge sees it, the District Attorney (DA) gets to look at it. They check to make sure you are eligible. They check to make sure you don’t have new adult crimes pending.
- If they agree, they sign off on it.
- If they disagree, they can object.
This is why you need Michael Gowdey. If the DA objects because they think you had a “bad attitude” or owe fines, I pick up the phone. I negotiate. I fight to get them to agree so we don’t have to have a contested hearing.
Step 4: The Judge’s Order
Once the DA signs, we submit it to the Family Court Judge. If everything is correct, the judge signs the Order to Seal.
Step 5: Distribution (The Most Important Step)
Having the order isn’t enough. You have to send the order to everyone who has your file. We send certified copies to:
- The Las Vegas Metro Police
- The FBI
- The School District
- The DMV
If you skip this step, the record stays in the computer! We handle this distribution for you to ensure the record is actually gone.
Official Process & Requirements for Sealing Juvenile Records in Las Vegas
Summary of Official Process:
- Juvenile records in Nevada are automatically sealed when the individual turns 21, unless they have certain charges on their record.
- If a record is not automatically sealed due to serious offenses, the individual must wait until age 30 to petition for sealing.
- Petitions to seal juvenile records in Las Vegas must be filed in the Juvenile Court along with supporting documents.
- A current, verified copy of the criminal history, known as a SCOPE printout, must be included with the petition to seal juvenile records.
- To seal a juvenile record before turning 21, a person must wait three years after being judged delinquent to petition the court.
- The packet for sealing records must be submitted to the Juvenile Division of the District Attorney’s Office for review and approval.
- The Clark County District Attorney provides standardized forms for the sealing process of juvenile records.
- Once the court signs the order, copies must be sent to all agencies that have your record.
What If I Have Adult Charges Now? Can I Still Seal My Juvenile Record?
This complicates things.
If you have a pending adult criminal case, the juvenile court will usually deny your request to seal your juvenile record until the adult case is resolved. Pending criminal charges must be resolved before the court will consider sealing your juvenile record.
However, having an adult conviction doesn’t always block you from sealing your juvenile record. It depends on the type of adult crime.
- If you got a speeding ticket as an adult? No problem.
- If you got a DUI as an adult? We might have to wait until the DUI case is closed and sealed before we can fix the juvenile record.
We look at your entire history. We create a strategy to clean up your adult record and your juvenile record at the same time if possible.
Check out our Criminal Defense page to see how we handle adult charges.
Why Is It So Dangerous to Do This Yourself?
You can find forms online. You can try to do it yourself. But I have seen many people try and fail.
Common DIY Mistakes:
- Missing an Agency: You send the order to Metro Police, but you forget the Henderson Police Department. Result: Your background check still shows the arrest.
- Wrong Charges: You list the charge as “Theft,” but the official record says “Larceny.” The court rejects the paperwork because it doesn’t match.
- Missing the Deadline: You apply too early before the 3-year window is up.
- Forgetting Restitution: If you still owe money to the court (victim restitution), you cannot seal your record. We verify that all accounts are paid first.
When you are applying for a job, you cannot afford a “maybe.” You need to know it is done right.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Patience is key here. The government moves slowly.
In Clark County, the process typically takes 4 to 8 months.
- It takes weeks to get the records.
- It takes months for the DA to review the petition (they have a huge backlog).
- It takes weeks for the judge to sign.
Why does this matter? If you are planning to apply for college or the military in the fall, do not wait until summer to call us. You need to start the process now. We cannot speed up the DA, but we can make sure there are no delays on our end.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Michael I. Gowdey, Ltd.?
We know you have choices. Here is why families in Las Vegas trust us with their records.
We Are Thorough
We don’t just fill out a form. We investigate. We hunt down every old ticket and every old arrest report to ensure nothing is missed. We want your background check to come back 100% clean.
We Know the System
After 30+ years, I know how the DA’s office works. I know the clerks. I know how to push paperwork through the system efficiently.
We Care About Your Future
I became a lawyer to help people. There is nothing more satisfying than handing a young person a sealed court order and saying, “Go live your life.” We take pride in giving you that second chance.
Key Takeaways on Sealing Records
- Not Automatic: Your record does NOT disappear at 18. You must take action.
- Juvenile Records Sealed: Having your juvenile records sealed is essential for privacy and future opportunities.
- Seal Your Criminal Record: Seek legal help to seal your criminal record and clear your Nevada criminal history for a fresh start.
- The “No” Box: Once sealed, you can legally deny the arrest ever happened on job apps.
- Age 21 Rule: You have a right to seal at 21, but you can petition earlier (after 3 years) with a lawyer’s help.
- Jobs & Military: Sealing is often the only way to join the military or get a gaming card.
- Distribution Matters: You must send the order to every police agency, or the record stays visible.
- Start Now: The process takes months. Do not wait until the week before your job interview.
Don’t Let Your Past Control Your Future. Clear Your Name Today.
You have worked hard to grow up. You have learned from your mistakes. You shouldn’t have to carry a backpack full of regrets for the rest of your life.
At The Law Offices of Michael I. Gowdey, Ltd., we are ready to help you wipe the slate clean. Whether you are in Las Vegas, Henderson, or North Las Vegas, we can handle the bureaucracy so you can handle your future.
Don’t wait another day. The sooner we start, the sooner you can check “No” on that application.
Contact us now to schedule a consultation. Let’s get your record sealed.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information.
FAQS
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sealing Juvenile Records
1. Can the FBI see my sealed record?
Answer: Once a record is sealed, the court sends an order to the FBI to remove the entry from their database. However, for extremely sensitive federal clearance (like Top Secret clearance) or immigration, there are rare exceptions where they might still see it. For example, certain government agencies may access sealed records for law enforcement or national security purposes. But for 99% of purposes, it is gone.
2. Can I seal my record if I still owe court fines?
Answer: No. You must pay all restitution and fines before the court will sign the order. If you owe money, we can help you figure out exactly how much so you can pay it off and start the sealing process.
3. Does sealing my record restore my gun rights?
Answer: Usually, yes. If you had a juvenile felony adjudication that stopped you from owning a gun, sealing the record typically restores your Second Amendment rights in Nevada. Sealing may also restore certain rights that were lost due to the conviction.
4. What if I was arrested but never charged?
Answer: The arrest record still exists! Even if the DA never filed charges, the police have a record of your booking. You still need to seal this “non-conviction” record to clear your name.
5. How much does it cost to seal a record?
Answer: There are legal fees (for our time) and sometimes administrative fees. However, compared to the cost of losing a job or being denied a career, it is a small investment. We offer consultations to explain the costs upfront.
6. Can I seal my record if I live in another state now?
Answer: Yes. If your juvenile record is in Clark County, we can handle the entire process for you here, even if you live in Texas or New York now. You do not need to fly back to Las Vegas.
7. Will the school seal my disciplinary record too?
Answer: The court order seals the police and court records. It directs the school police to seal their files. However, internal academic transcripts regarding grades are different. But the criminal aspect will be removed from the school police file.
8. What if my petition is denied?
Answer: If the judge denies the petition, there is usually a waiting period (often 2 years) before you can try again. This is why it is so critical to do it right the first time with a lawyer.
9. Can a sealed record ever be unsealed?
Answer: It is very rare. A record can be unsealed if you are later charged with a major felony and the prosecutor petitions the court to see your history for sentencing purposes. Or, if you apply for a job with the Gaming Control Board or specialized law enforcement, they may ask you to unseal it for the background check.
10. Do I need to go to court?
Answer: Usually, no. If we do the paperwork correctly and the DA agrees, the judge signs it in their chambers without a hearing. We handle everything.
11. Who can see my sealed record?
Answer: Once your record is sealed, it is not visible to the general public or most employers. However, certain government agencies may still have access to sealed records. For example, law enforcement or regulatory agencies may access your sealed record if you apply for a gaming license or a law enforcement position.
12. What legal process governs record sealing in Nevada?
Answer: The process for sealing juvenile records in Las Vegas is governed by the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS), specifically NRS 62H.130 and related sections. These statutes outline the eligibility, procedure, and requirements for sealing records.
13. Can I serve on a jury or hold public office after my record is sealed?
Answer: Yes. Sealing your juvenile record in Nevada generally restores certain rights, including the right to serve on a jury and, in most cases, the right to hold public office. This can help remove barriers to civic participation and future opportunities.
14. What is the difference between sealing and expungement in Nevada?
Answer: Sealing a criminal record in Nevada conceals charges from public access, while expunging a record completely erases it. Nevada does not currently offer an expungement option; individuals can only seal their records.
15. What are the official requirements and process for sealing a juvenile record in Las Vegas?
Answer:
- Juvenile records in Nevada are automatically sealed when the individual turns 21, unless they have certain charges on their record.
- If a record is not automatically sealed due to serious offenses, the individual must wait until age 30 to petition for sealing.
- Petitions to seal juvenile records in Las Vegas must be filed in the Juvenile Court along with supporting documents.
- A current, verified copy of the criminal history, known as a SCOPE printout, must be included with the petition to seal juvenile records.
- To seal a juvenile record before turning 21, a person must wait three years after being judged delinquent to petition the court.
- The packet for sealing records must be submitted to the Juvenile Division of the District Attorney’s Office for review and approval.
- The Clark County District Attorney provides standardized forms for the sealing process of juvenile records.
Once the court signs the order, copies must be sent to all agencies that have your record.