Search

To ask to seal your juvenile record, you fill out and turn in a form to the probation department or court where your case was processed. The probation department will review your form and then turn it to the court with a recommendation. Then, a judge will decide whether to seal your record. The whole process takes at least 3 months, often longer.

When someone under 18 is accused of breaking the law, the case is usually handled in juvenile justice (or delinquency) court. This is very different than the adult criminal court. This section provides basic information and an overview of the juvenile court process.

This section has general information about

• What can happen if a youth (someone under 18) is arrested
• Youth's and parent's rights and responsibilities
• What happens if a youth gets a Notice to Appear

For more specific information or for legal advice, talk to a lawyer. A youth has a right to talk to a lawyer.

Juvenile court can be confusing. As a victim of crime, you have important legal rights. Knowing these rights can help you make informed decisions.

Jump to:

• What is juvenile court?
• Who is involved in a juvenile case?
• What about victims?
• Your rights as a victim
• Where can you get help?
• Key takeaways

The guide contains information about

• Sealing juvenile records
• Who is eligible to have their record sealed
• How to ask to have your records sealed