How Can I Seal My Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) in Massachusetts?

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 05/31/2019

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Understanding Criminal Records in Massachusetts

If you have a criminal offender record information (CORI) in Massachusetts, any potential employer can see it, even if it was dismissed or you were found not guilty. This can make it difficult for you to secure employment and can be a black mark for a variety of other reasons. Fortunately, you can seal your record (CORI) through a petition with the Court. While you can do this yourself, it often helps to get a lawyer. At the Law Office of Matthew Peterson, we are always here to help you in legal matters.

How Long Do I Have to Wait to Seal My Criminal Record?

It depends on what happened with your case.

Dismissed Cases or Not Guilty: If your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you can file immediately to get your record sealed. Keep in mind that if you received a continuance without a finding (CWOF), you will be able to seal your CORI once the case is over and dismissed. If you never appeared before a judge (arraigned), you have no record.
Guilty Verdicts: If you were found guilty, pled guilty, or were convicted in some way, it depends on what the underlying offense was.
- Misdemeanor: You will have to wait three (3) years.
- Felony: You must wait seven (7) years.
- If you served time in jail or prison, the time will start running once you’re released.

There are exceptions to this time limit for certain offenses:

Violation of a harassment or restraining order has a 10-year waiting period.
Sex offenses have a 15-year waiting period.
If you were convicted of anything else since your conviction, you will have to wait for the waiting period again.

Can I Seal Any Criminal Offense?

No. Some criminal offenses are NOT eligible for sealing under any circumstances. These include intimidation of a witness and perjury. Resisting arrest is eligible for CORI sealing after October 2018.

What if an Employer Asks about a Sealed Record?

If your record was sealed, you can legally answer that you have no criminal record, even if you were convicted and the record was sealed later.

How Do I Get My Criminal Record Sealed?

If you’re eligible to have your CORI sealed, you or an attorney could file a petition with the court or send in a request by mail. You should submit any information you think could be relevant, including:

The particular disadvantage(s) caused by the availability of the criminal record
Evidence of rehabilitation suggesting you could overcome these disadvantages if the record were sealed
Any other evidence that sealing would help you overcome the identified disadvantage(s)
Relevant circumstances at the time of the offense suggesting a likelihood of recidivism (committing another offense) or success
The amount of time passed since the offense and the conclusion of the criminal case
The nature of and reasons for the particular disposition of the criminal case

You will likely have to appear before a judge, so it would be helpful to have an attorney who can assist, although it is something you can do yourself.

If you believe you could be eligible to have your record sealed, contact a Massachusetts criminal defense attorney to explore your options. As always, We’d be glad to help. Contact us, and let’s get started giving you a fresh start. Contact the Law Office of Matthew Peterson and the phone number is (617) 295-7500.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a CORI and how does it affect me?

CORI stands for Criminal Offender Record Information. It is a record that includes information about an individual’s criminal history in Massachusetts. Employers, licensing boards, and other entities may access this information, which can impact your ability to secure employment, housing, or certain licenses.

2. Can I seal my record if I was never convicted?

Yes, if your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you can file to seal your record immediately. Additionally, if you received a continuance without a finding (CWOF), you can seal your record once the case is dismissed.

3. How does sealing a record differ from expunging it?

Sealing a record means that it is no longer accessible to the public but can still be viewed by certain government agencies and law enforcement. Expungement, on the other hand, completely removes the record from public view and government databases. In Massachusetts, expungement is only available for specific offenses under certain conditions.

4. Will sealing my record guarantee that I will get a job?

No, while sealing your record can improve your chances of employment by preventing employers from seeing your criminal history, it does not guarantee a job. Employers may still consider other factors such as qualifications, experience, and references during the hiring process.

5. What happens if my petition to seal my record is denied?

If your petition to seal your record is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or wait a certain period before reapplying. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney who can help you understand your options and improve your chances of success in future applications.