Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

I am trying to expunge my husbands juvenile record from 25 yrs ago, he meets all the requirements & I have a few questions:

Which is better Expunging or Sealing?

He also has a Misdemeanor from 18 yrs ago , does that need to be cleared before we do the juvenile record?

Looking @ the paperwork to seal, how do I know which box to check: RCW 13.50.050 or RCW 13.40.27(10) or GR 15(C)?

Do we have to file the paperwork in Juvenile court or can we file it at the Regional Justice Center in Kent, WA.?


Asked on 2/29/12, 12:39 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Paul Ferris Law Office of Paul T. Ferris

Unless he can point to an express promise that his records can be destroyed (expunged), he is limited to sealing the juvenile record.

The misdemeanor does not have to be cleared.

Read the statutes and check the box that applies to his case and the relief you are seeking. GR 15 is not needed, as the statute alone provided authority for sealing.

The paperwork must be filed in juvenile court.

Note: if you are attempting to seal a juvenile felony to remove a firearm disability, make sure the conviction is VACATED, not just sealed. Sealing is not permanent; a new felony charge or a new conviction for any criminal offense nullifies the sealing order. Restoration of firearm rights should be accomplished independently to ensure there are no issues in the future.

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Answered on 2/29/12, 12:55 pm


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