Legal Question in Criminal Law in Massachusetts

Is a ''sealed'' record truly sealed?

When I was 19 I was fired by an employer and brought to court for larceny over 250. The evidence, presented by the loss prevention detective for the store I worked at was my written confession. This was the sole ''evidence.'' I sought an attorney and explained how I was made false promises to admit to the larceny and had been placed under duress. The written ''confession'' was thrown out. The prosecution agreed to a nolle pros and that was that. My attorney filed for, and had the case sealed.

Now, 4 years and three college degrees later, I am applying for several federal and state law enforcement jobs. If I deny ever having criminal charges brought against me, will the file turn up if searched for?


Asked on 4/01/05, 10:11 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Martha Kovner Law Offices of Martha J. Kovner

Re: Is a ''sealed'' record truly sealed?

When the federal government runs your record--they will be able to see that you have something which has been sealed--they will then obviously ask you about it. An incident such as the one you describe from such a long time ago should really not be a factor in their decision making. But they will obviously be curious and you might want to explain it before they see the sealed item.

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Answered on 4/02/05, 8:19 am


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