New York's “clean slate” legislation, the latest criminal justice bill signed by the Democratic governor, will automatically seal most criminal records three years after serving time or parole for a misdemeanor and eight years for felony convictions.
You just need to meet the basic eligibility requirements. That means if you complete your waiting periods without getting a new conviction, complete your community supervision, and don't have any pending charges, then sealing under Clean Slate will happen automatically. No application will be necessary.
The Clean Slate Act (CPL 160.57) will automatically seal an individual's New York State criminal records. The law takes effect on November 16, 2024.
You just need to meet the basic eligibility requirements. That means if you complete your waiting periods without getting a new conviction, complete your community supervision, and don't have any pending charges, then sealing under Clean Slate will happen automatically. No application will be necessary.
HOW TO FILE Request a Criminal Certificate of Disposition from the court. Complete and File the Sealing Application. Serve the District Attorney's Office. Fill Out An Affidavit of Service. File the Sealing Application. Attend Court Hearing. Confirm Sealing.
Many people mistakenly think that United States criminal records automatically clear after 7 years. This is inaccurate. However, after 5 to 10 years, you may be eligible for expungement, depending on state law. At that point, you can file a petition with the court to have your criminal record expunged.
This law will automatically seal certain criminal records after a required waiting period – three years after conviction or release from jail for a misdemeanor and eight years after conviction or release from prison for a felony – provided they have maintained a clean record and are no longer on probation or parole.