How to Seal Juvenile Records in California
- 1). Wait until either five years after your conviction or until you turn 18, whichever comes first.
- 2). Don't commit any crimes as an adult involving "Moral Turpitude," such as drug use, sexual deviance, fraud or theft.
- 3). Pay any fines that you have incurred as a juvenile or adult due to criminal, civil and traffic offenses.
- 4). Contact the probation office in the county of your conviction and request that it begin the sealing procedure. The office will conduct an investigation looking into your past criminal activities.
- 5). Pay a fee to your local probation office. This will cost between up to $120, depending on the county in which you were convicted (see link in the "Resources" section for county-by-county contact and fee information).
- 6). Participate in an interview with the probation department. Honestly answer all questions that they pose to you.
- 7). Attend a hearing at the juvenile court. The court will decide whether to seal your record. Typically a defense attorney does not need to be present. If the court accepts your petition then your records will be sealed within a few months.
