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Do juvenile records go away automatically after turning 18?

On Behalf of | Jan 30, 2025 | Criminal Law

The moment your teenager gets in trouble with the law can feel devastating. It’s natural for parents to worry about their child’s youthful mistakes following them into adulthood.

The good news? Pennsylvania offers ways to protect your child’s future through its juvenile record laws.

What happens to juvenile records at 18

Your child’s juvenile record won’t automatically disappear on their 18th birthday. You’ll need to ask the court to expunge it. Here’s what your child needs to qualify for expungement:

Contrary to popular belief, juvenile records don’t automatically disappear after your child’s 18th birthday. Pennsylvania laws require you to petition for it. You still need to file a motion for expungement. Here’s what your child needs to qualify for expungement:

  • Your child completed all court-ordered requirements
  • Five years have passed since the case ended
  • No new charges occurred
  • The offense wasn’t a serious felony
  • Your child paid all fines and restitution

You will need to provide pertinent information about the case in your petition. This includes the case docket number and the police report reference number.

Aside from parents, qualified guardians or legal representatives may file the motion for the expungement.

Expungement vs. record sealing

Expungement erases the record completely. Meanwhile, sealing only restricts public access and keeps records available to law enforcement agencies.

For juvenile cases, expungement provides better protection since it removes all traces of the incident. Felonies like rape, murder or aggravated assault generally do not qualify for either option. However, drug charges may qualify under the Clean Slate Act.

Taking action for your child’s future

Everyone makes mistakes growing up; that’s all part of learning. Thankfully, Pennsylvania’s youth courts focus on helping kids learn from their mistakes—instead of punishing them forever.

You won’t need to worry about a juvenile charge haunting your child as they apply for jobs. Consider working with a criminal defense attorney for a smoother, less stressful expungement process. They can help review your child’s case and guide you through the steps to help improve your chances of a successful petition.

 

 

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