As criminal defense attorneys in Missouri, we often receive questions about how juvenile records, particularly felony convictions, can impact a person’s future. Many people believe that these records automatically disappear once the person turns 18, but this is not always the case.
Let’s take a closer look at what happens to juvenile delinquency records in Missouri and what options there are to seal or expunge those records.
Missouri Juvenile Crime Records
In Missouri, when a minor is found guilty of a crime, the records are handled differently than juvenile offense records.
While juvenile crimes are generally treated confidentially, Juvenile records for proceedings in which a juvenile is found to have committed an offense that would constitute a felony if committed by an adult shall be open to the public unless sealed (RSMO 211.321). This means anyone can request to see these records and they can show up in background checks.
Effects of a juvenile criminal record
A conviction for a crime as a minor can have long-term consequences, even if the person turns 18. These records do not automatically disappear or be deleted when the person reaches the age of majority.
An unsealed juvenile criminal record can impact:
- Employment opportunities
- College Admissions
- Housing applications
- Military enlistment
- Eligibility for certain professional licenses
At Rose Legal Services, we believe that a single mistake or misjudgment should not define you for a lifetime. Our criminal defense attorneys have extensive experience in juvenile justice and can help you understand your options after conviction.
Sealing juvenile criminal records in Missouri
Missouri law provides individuals with the opportunity to petition the court to seal their juvenile records, including felony convictions. The legal authority to seal juvenile records is found in Missouri Revised Statute 211.321.5.
Authorization to Seal Juvenile Records
To be eligible for juvenile record sealing in Missouri, the individual must meet certain criteria:
- You must be at least 18 years old OR the juvenile criminal proceedings have been completed
- Show that sealing the file is in their best interest
- Have fulfilled all conditions of their youth order (punishment).
Some of the most common reasons for requesting record sealing include pursuing higher education and seeking employment.
The procedure for sealing juvenile records
The first step to sealing a juvenile criminal record is to file a petition with the court that handled the original case. It is strongly recommended that you work with an attorney knowledgeable in juvenile law, such as our team at Rose Legal Services, when sealing records.
As previously mentioned, prior to submitting the application, the individual must have completed all aspects of their juvenile justice case, including:
- Fulfillment of all obligations to the Department of Youth Services
- Completion of probation or parole supervision
- Pay compensation to the victims
- Completion of any court-ordered treatment or educational programs
Once the motion is filed, the court will review it and decide whether to grant the motion to seal.
Restrictions on Sealing Juvenile Records
Although sealing juvenile records can provide significant benefits, there are some caveats to keep in mind:
- Certain serious crimes, such as first-degree murder, may not be able to be sealed
- Sealed records may still be accessible to some entities, such as law enforcement and background check companies
- Sealing is not the same as expungement – sealed records still exist but are hidden from public view
While sealing your records may not completely eliminate your criminal record, it can give you new hope. At Rose Legal Services, our legal team takes record sealing a step further by contacting background check companies and having them remove the sealed information from their records so you can confidently apply for a job, housing or professional license.
However, we also recommend keeping an open mind if something comes up. We advise clients to inform potential employers or other relevant parties that the record has been sealed, and we can provide you with a copy of the court order indicating that the record has been sealed for your reference. This proactive approach will help ensure that a sealed juvenile record does not continue to harm your chances in adulthood.
Don’t let one youthful mistake determine your future
A mistake you made as a minor shouldn’t stay with you for the rest of your life. Our team at Rose Legal Services is passionate about giving good people a fresh start and moving forward with their lives after a juvenile offense.
Our team has been serving customers for more than 20 years. Our goal is to help you put your past behind you so you can focus on building a bright future. Regardless of whether you are applying for a course of study, looking for a job or pursuing other opportunities, we will help you overcome the hurdles that a youth certificate can bring with it.
If you have committed a juvenile offense in Missouri, don’t let that hold you back. Contact Rose Legal Services today for a confidential consultation with one of our attorneys.
