Petition to Seal Records - Haitian Creole - Massachusetts (Haitian Creole)

This is a legal document that was released by the Massachusetts Judicial Branch - a government authority operating within Massachusetts.

The document is provided in Haitian Creole.

FAQ

Q: What is a Petition to Seal Records?
A: A Petition to Seal Records is a legal process that allows individuals to request the sealing or removal of certain criminal records from public view.

Q: Who can file a Petition to Seal Records in Massachusetts?
A: In Massachusetts, individuals who have been convicted of a criminal offense, completed their sentence, and have met the waiting period requirements can file a Petition to Seal Records.

Q: What are the waiting period requirements for filing a Petition to Seal Records in Massachusetts?
A: The waiting period requirements vary depending on the type of offense. Generally, misdemeanor offenses require a waiting period of 3 years, while felony offenses require a waiting period of 10 years.

Q: What does it mean to seal records?
A: Sealing records means that they are no longer accessible to the general public. The records are not completely erased, but they are restricted from public view.

Q: Why would someone want to seal their records?
A: There are several reasons why someone might want to seal their records, including improving their employment prospects, obtaining housing, or simply starting fresh with a clean record.

Q: What happens after filing a Petition to Seal Records in Massachusetts?
A: After filing a Petition to Seal Records, a court hearing is scheduled where the individual can present their case. The court will then decide whether or not to grant the request to seal the records.

Q: Are all criminal records eligible to be sealed?
A: Not all criminal records are eligible to be sealed. Certain offenses, such as certain violent crimes or sex offenses, are generally not eligible for sealing. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine eligibility.

Q: Can employers or law enforcement still access sealed records?
A: Sealed records are generally not accessible to the general public, including employers and law enforcement. However, there may be certain circumstances where certain entities can still access sealed records.

Q: What is the effect of a sealed record?
A: A sealed record is not completely erased, but it is restricted from public view. In most cases, individuals with sealed records can legally state that they have not been convicted of the sealed offense.

Q: Do I need an attorney to file a Petition to Seal Records?
A: While it is not required to have an attorney, it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney who specializes in criminal records sealing to guide you through the process.