Im having trouble trying to find out how to remove felonies from a record in the state of massachusetts?

Question

i need to find out how you can have a record sealed or expunged in massachusetts. the crimes happened there, the person lives there. they happened over 5 years ago does that help? i need any and all advice anyone has to give.

Answer 1

As noted above me, each state is different and highly specific about what is expungable and what is not.

Certain conditions are universal. Only a first time felony can be expunged. If you have more than one felony, they will remain for life ( I see in your question that you said "felonies" as a plural).

Time elements apply. Most states demand 5 years free and clear of all legal encumbrances with some states demanding 7 years.

Only certain felonies can be expunged, which is where the state itself makes it own determination on which is acceptable or not.

Best advice is to consult with an attorney in the jurisdiction of the arrest/conviction and see if you qualify for an expungement, If you do, the attorney can draw up your petition and submit to the court in your behalf.

When you call, make sure the first consultation is free of charge. Most attorneys will do this, but it never hurts to ask ahead of time.

Best of luck and I hope this is useful to you

Answer 2

You need to consult with an attorney in your area. Here in Texas, the law is specific on what types of offenses can be expunged - and the circumstances around them. Some offenses can be, some cannot. Also, a certain period of time since the incident must pass - depending on what the offense is.

It can get very complicated. You would need to speak with an attorney in your area for an answer. Even then - they will probably have to research it. This comes up in court periodically, and I have heard most of the defense attorney's say that they would have to research the specifics, because there are so many variables.

Answer 3

if you were convicted of that crime as an adult, you can't have them expunged or sealed.  However, if you were a juvenile or the case was dismissed, you can file a Petition to have this case expunged/sealed in the District Court.