How to Seal a Criminal Record in Massachusetts

A criminal record can hurt your chances with jobs, housing, and education. But in Massachusetts, many records can be sealed—meaning they won’t show up on most background checks.

You may qualify to seal your record if:
- Enough time has passed since your conviction or case closure.
- Your case ended in dismissal, nolle prosequi, or not guilty.
- You can show “good cause” for sealing a non-conviction case early.

Sealing requires filing a petition and, in some cases, attending a hearing. Once sealed, your record becomes hidden from the public (but not from law enforcement).