Sealing a felony record in Nevada limits public access to your criminal history but does not erase it. The record sealing process includes obtaining official criminal history reports, verifying eligibility, filing in the court of conviction, serving the prosecuting agency and other relevant agencies, and attending a court hearing.

Employers and landlords usually cannot access sealed records, but certain government agencies, law enforcement involved, and professional licensing boards may still access them under specified circumstances.

Local help is available. Nevada Legal Services, the Legal Aid Center, the Clark County Bar Association, and pro bono volunteers in Clark County, North Las Vegas, and Las Vegas provide guidance on record sealing forms, deadlines, upcoming class dates, and hearings.

Always consult a qualified defense attorney or a legal aid center for individualized advice before filing your petition.

What Record Sealing Means in Nevada

Record sealing does not delete your conviction. Instead, the court grants an order directing relevant agencies and the Nevada Department of Public Safety’s central repository to restrict public access.

• Once sealed, your record generally does not appear in a routine background check.
• Limited access remains for law enforcement involved, prosecuting agencies, and certain professional licensing boards.
• This allows eligible Nevadans seeking housing or employment to move forward, while still preserving data for public safety.

How Sealing Differs From Expungement

Under Nevada law, expungement is not available. Instead, Nevada relies on criminal record sealing.

• Sealed records: remain in government databases, but the general public and most employers cannot see them.
• Expunged records: deleted entirely, which Nevada law does not allow.

The Nevada Legislature established sealing as the legal remedy to help people wishing to seal past criminal records without erasing them entirely.

Eligibility Overview

Eligibility for criminal record sealing depends on:

• The type of criminal conviction or criminal charges.
• Completion of probation, parole, or final disposition.
• The waiting periods are set under Nevada law.
• The absence of standing violations or new criminal offenses.

Not all felonies qualify. Offenses like sexual offenses, felony DUI, deadly weapon charges, and crimes against children are generally excluded.

Waiting Periods and Final Disposition

The waiting period begins after the final disposition of a case, completion of sentence, or end of probation/parole.

• Other misdemeanors: 1–2 years.
• Felony convictions: 5–10 years, depending on severity.
• Felony DUI and sexual offenses: usually not sealable.
• Dismissals or acquittals: may be sealed immediately.

Judges may apply a rebuttable presumption in favor of sealing once waiting periods set by Nevada law are satisfied.

Filing Venue: District Court vs. Las Vegas Justice Court

Where you file depends on the case:

• District Court: felony and more serious matters.
• Las Vegas Justice Court: lower-level cases and other records tied to misdemeanors.
• Clark County, North Las Vegas, and surrounding jurisdictions: each may have different court requirements.

The court clerk can help determine the proper venue and forms required.

Steps in the Record Sealing Process

1. Obtain your official criminal history report from the Nevada Department of Public Safety or the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.
2. Review all past criminal records for errors. Correct them before filing.
3. Prepare the petition and order with accurate case numbers, final dispositions, and supporting documents.
4. File one petition in the correct court, pay filing fees, or request a waiver if eligible.
5. Serve the prosecuting agency, victims, and all the agencies identified by statute.
6. Attend the court hearing, answer questions about rehabilitation, and present supporting evidence.
7. If the court grants the petition, obtain certified copies of the signed order and confirm that records continue to be updated by all relevant agencies.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Filing in the wrong court.
• Missing necessary documents or certified copies.
• Incomplete service on the prosecuting agency or the Nevada Department.
• Failure to disclose all past convictions or other records.
• Not waiting for the waiting periods set by law.

FAQ

How do I seal a felony in Nevada?

To begin, request your official criminal history report, complete the record sealing forms, and file a petition with the proper district court or Las Vegas Justice Court. The court clerk and record sealing resources in Clark County can help with procedures.

Which criminal records in Nevada cannot be sealed?

Offenses such as sexual offenses, felony DUI, deadly weapon charges, and violent felonies are generally excluded from the record sealing process. Always confirm eligibility with a legal aid center or defense attorney.

What is the waiting period for record sealing in Nevada?

The waiting period begins after the final disposition of your case. It ranges from 1 year for other misdemeanors to up to 10 years for felony convictions. Dismissed cases and acquittals may be sealed immediately.

Who can access sealed records in Nevada?

While the general public, potential employers, and landlords cannot view sealed records, access is still possible for law enforcement involved, government agencies, and professional licensing boards under limited circumstances.

Where can I find free legal help for record sealing in Nevada?

Nevada Legal Services, the Legal Aid Center, pro bono volunteers, community education classes, and the Boyd School of Law often offer free legal education and assistance with record sealing forms. Check the Clark County Bar Association for upcoming class dates and resources for petitioners’ rights.

Conclusion

The record sealing process in Nevada is a structured way for eligible criminal records to be restricted from public view while protecting public safety. By obtaining your official criminal history report, preparing one petition correctly, and working with the court clerk, prosecuting agency, and relevant agencies, you can take control of your criminal records in Nevada.

If the court grants your petition, your civil rights may be immediately restored—including, in some cases, the right to bear arms, hold office, and pursue new employment opportunities.

If you are a person wishing to seal past criminal records, don’t wait. Reach out to Nevada Legal Services, the Legal Aid Center, or qualified attorneys accepting clients in Las Vegas, North Las Vegas, and Clark County. With the right preparation and support, you can seal your record, protect your future, and move forward with confidence.