“Clean slate” sealing (“order for limited access”) is automatic for single less serious drug felonies after a 10-year conviction-free waiting period, and for 2nd and 3rd degree misdemeanors and ungraded offenses after a 7-year conviction-free waiting period, with certain disqualifying priors (including any prior felony conviction), and full payment of restitution.  Sealed records are not available to public or private employers, or landlords, but remain available to licensing agencies and other state and criminal justice agencies.  Sealing is also available by petition to the court, with broader eligibility (less serious non-violent felonies, some first-degree misdemeanors eligible, with fewer disqualifying priors), and broader effect (licensing boards do not have access).  “Clean slate” sealing is mandated for non-conviction records  within 30 days of disposition, with the additional remedy of expungement by petition in cases where no disposition is indicated after 18 months.

Expungement is available by petition for “summary” offenses after five years; for underage drinking; for those age 70 with no arrests within 10 years; for pre-plea diversion (ARD); and for “probation before judgment” cases involving nonviolent, first-time drug offenses.  Expungement is mandatory for pardoned offenses. Courts have inherent authority to redact conviction records to expunge dismissed charges.  Juvenile records may be expunged six months after discharge on a consent decree or upon reaching age 18; or five years after delinquency adjudication.