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If you’ve completed your sentence and want to move forward without the burden of your past, you may be wondering: Can you seal a felony record in Nevada? The answer is yes—under specific legal conditions that require careful timing, documentation, and compliance with state law.
Sealing your criminal record can be a life-changing opportunity. A criminal conviction can impact nearly every aspect of your life—employment opportunities, housing applications, education, financial access, and even personal relationships. Most employers today conduct background checks, and a past felony record can instantly raise red flags, even if you’ve rehabilitated and complied with every condition of your sentence. By sealing your record, you’re not erasing your history, but you are restoring control over who gets to see it. It’s the legal way to reclaim your dignity, privacy, and freedom from stigma.
This step-by-step legal guide breaks down the process of how to seal a felony record in Nevada, including how to obtain your criminal history report, verify your eligibility, prepare the correct legal documents, and file your petition in the Las Vegas Justice Court, District Court, or other appropriate jurisdiction. You’ll learn what to expect at each stage, how to avoid costly mistakes, and what benefits come once your record is sealed.
At The Defense Firm, our mission is to help clients rebuild their lives after criminal convictions. Our attorneys guide you through every detail—from filing your petition and communicating with the District Attorney’s Office to ensuring your sealed record is properly distributed to all law enforcement agencies and public databases. With the right legal support, you can move forward confidently knowing your rights and future are protected.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult an experienced Nevada criminal defense lawyer to evaluate your specific case.
Understanding Record Sealing vs. Expungement
Nevada law distinguishes record sealing from expungement, and understanding this difference is crucial. While some states allow expungement (destruction of criminal records), Nevada does not. Instead, record sealing removes your criminal record from public access while allowing law enforcement agencies—such as the Nevada Department of Public Safety—to maintain it internally.
That means your sealed record cannot be viewed by most employers, landlords, or the general public. It also means that, in most circumstances, you can legally state that you have not been convicted of a crime, helping you pass background checks for jobs, housing, or professional licensing. However, your record can still be accessed by certain entities, such as prosecutors, courts, or law enforcement officers, if needed for future investigations or criminal proceedings.
Record sealing thus offers a powerful second chance: it hides your past from view while preserving the legal record where necessary. It is one of the most effective legal tools for restoring your privacy and reputation in Nevada.
Who Is Eligible to Seal a Felony Record in Nevada?
Eligibility depends on the classification of your felony, the type of crime, and the amount of time that has passed since completing your sentence, probation, or suspended sentence. Nevada law outlines different waiting periods depending on whether your conviction was a Category B, C, D, or E felony.
General Eligibility Requirements
- Completion of all sentences, probation, and suspended sentences
- No pending criminal charges or ongoing investigations
- Fulfillment of any financial obligations, such as court fines or restitution
- Expiration of the statutory waiting period based on the offense type
Typical Waiting Periods
The waiting period is a crucial part of determining eligibility to seal a felony record in Nevada. You must wait a specific amount of time after completing your sentence—including probation, parole, or a suspended sentence—before filing your petition.
For Category B, C, and D felonies, the waiting period is generally five years from the date your case officially closes. These offenses often include crimes like burglary, grand larceny, or drug possession with intent to sell.
If your conviction was for a Category E felony or a gross misdemeanor, you must typically wait two years after completing all court requirements. These cases often involve first-time or less severe offenses.
For misdemeanors, the waiting period is shorter—usually one year after completing your sentence.
Keep in mind that some crimes are never eligible for sealing, including sexual offenses, crimes against minors, and violent felonies involving deadly weapons. Always verify eligibility with an experienced Nevada criminal defense attorney before filing your petition. Filing too early or without complete documentation can delay or jeopardize your case.
Step-by-Step Legal Process to Seal a Felony Record in Nevada
Step 1: Obtain Your Criminal History Report
Start by requesting your complete criminal history record from the Nevada Department of Public Safety (DPS) and, if applicable, a SCOPE report from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD).
This report should include every incident, charge, and final disposition related to your case. Any errors or omissions can lead to delays, so it’s essential to review the report carefully or consult your attorney to verify its accuracy.
Step 2: Prepare Your Petition and Required Documents
Prepare all necessary record sealing forms with attention to detail. Commonly required documents include:
- Petition to Seal Records – Your formal request for the court to seal your criminal record
- Affidavit – A sworn statement confirming your identity and criminal record information
- Proposed Order – A draft order for the judge’s signature upon approval
- Certified Copies – Include your criminal history report, final dispositions, and any sample forms required by the court
Step 3: File in the Correct Court
Depending on where your case was handled, file your petition in:
- The Las Vegas Justice Court (for Clark County cases)
- The District Court for your county
Submit your petition to the court clerk with all supporting documents and pay the filing fees. Be sure to confirm jurisdiction; filing in the wrong court can result in immediate rejection.
Step 4: Review by the District Attorney’s Office
Your petition will then be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office. If the DA stipulates (agrees) that your record meets eligibility requirements, your case may be approved without a hearing. If not, a court hearing will be scheduled.
At the hearing, the judge will evaluate:
- The nature of your conviction (e.g., drugged driving, property crime, etc.)
- Your rehabilitation efforts
- Public safety considerations
Your attorney can present arguments and documentation demonstrating rehabilitation and compliance, helping the judge understand why sealing your record aligns with justice and fairness.
Step 5: Court Decision and Signed Order
If the judge agrees, the court issues a signed order officially sealing your record. This order becomes a legal directive that prevents most agencies from accessing or disclosing your criminal history. Once granted, the court’s decision is binding on all relevant jurisdictions.
Step 6: Notify All Agencies and Distribute Certified Copies
After approval, obtain certified copies of the signed order and distribute them to:
- Nevada Department of Public Safety
- Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department
- District Attorney’s Office
- Any other law enforcement agencies or databases that hold your record
This ensures that every system—from local law enforcement to statewide criminal history databases—is updated to reflect your newly sealed record.
Benefits of Sealing a Felony Record in Nevada
- Employment Opportunities: Most employers will not see your sealed record in background checks.
- Restored Civil Rights: You may regain rights such as voting and serving on a jury.
- Better Housing and Financial Options: Landlords and banks are less likely to deny applications.
- Increased Privacy: Your criminal history is no longer accessible to the public.
- Peace of Mind: You can confidently rebuild your reputation without fear of discrimination.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Filing before the waiting period ends
- Submitting incomplete criminal history records
- Not including all required documents or certified copies
- Failing to distribute the signed order to all relevant agencies
Even a minor error can delay the process for months. Working with an experienced Nevada criminal defense attorney helps you avoid these costly mistakes.
FAQ
Can all felonies be sealed in Nevada?
No, Sex crimes, crimes against children, and very violent felonies are typically ineligible for sealing. Always confirm eligibility with your lawyer.
How long does the process take?
The record sealing process in Nevada can take 4 to 8 months, depending on your jurisdiction and whether the District Attorney’s Office stipulates to your petition.
Can sealed records be reopened?
Only under very limited circumstances, such as new criminal charges or court orders, can sealed records be accessed by law enforcement.
Does sealing restore all my rights?
Yes, once sealed, you regain most civil rights, and your record will no longer appear in background checks or public databases.
Conclusion
Sealing a felony record in Nevada is more than a legal process—it’s an opportunity to start over with confidence and dignity. Whether your conviction stemmed from a youthful mistake, a nonviolent offense, or a lapse in judgment, the law gives you the right to reclaim your life.
A properly sealed record can open doors that were once closed—to better employment, housing, financial stability, and peace of mind. It’s the bridge between your past and your future—a path toward redemption that many people don’t realize is possible.
At The Defense Firm, our mission is to help you take that step. Our experienced Nevada criminal defense lawyers understand every detail of the record sealing process, from preparing petitions to ensuring that all agencies comply with court orders. We don’t just file paperwork—we fight for your second chance.
Don’t let your past control your future. Contact The Defense Firm today for a free, confidential consultation with a skilled Las Vegas criminal defense attorney who can help you seal your felony record in Nevada and move forward with a clean slate.