If You Get a Felony as a Minor, Does It Go Away When You Turn 18?

As criminal defense attorneys in Missouri, we often get questions about how juvenile records, particularly felony adjudications, can impact a person’s future. Many people believe that these records automatically disappear once the individual turns 18, but that’s not always the case.

Let’s take a closer look at what happens with juvenile felony records in Missouri and what options are available for sealing or expunging these records.

Juvenile Felony Records in Missouri

When a minor is adjudicated delinquent (found guilty) of a felony offense in Missouri, the records are handled differently than misdemeanor juvenile records.

While misdemeanor juvenile records are generally kept confidential, juvenile records for proceedings in which a juvenile is found delinquent of an offense that would be a felony, if committed by an adult, are open to the public unless they are sealed (RSMO 211.321). This means that anyone can request to see these records, and they may show up on background checks.

Impact of a Juvenile Felony Record

A felony adjudication as a minor can have long-lasting consequences, even after the individual turns 18. These records do not automatically disappear or get expunged when the person reaches the age of majority.

An unsealed felony juvenile record can affect:

• Employment opportunities
• College admissions
• Housing applications
• Military enlistment
• Eligibility for certain professional licenses

At Rose Legal Services, we believe that one mistake or lapse in judgment shouldn’t define you for life. Our criminal justice attorneys have extensive experience with juvenile law and can help you understand your options post-conviction.

Sealing Juvenile Felony Records in Missouri

Missouri law provides a mechanism for individuals to petition the court to seal their juvenile records, including felony adjudications. The legal authority for sealing juvenile records is found in Missouri Revised Statute 211.321.5.

Eligibility for Sealing Juvenile Records

To be eligible for juvenile record sealing in Missouri, the individual must meet certain criteria:

• Be at least 18 years old OR have had their juvenile case closed
• Demonstrate that sealing the record is in their best interest
• Have completed all terms of their juvenile disposition (sentence)

Some common reasons for requesting record sealing include pursuing higher education and seeking employment.

The Process for Sealing Juvenile Records

The first step in sealing a juvenile felony record is filing a petition with the court that handled the original case. It’s highly recommended to work with an attorney familiar with juvenile law, like our team at Rose Legal Services, when pursuing record sealing.

As previously mentioned, before filing the petition, the individual must have completed all aspects of their juvenile disposition, including:

• Serving any commitment to the Division of Youth Services
• Completing probation or parole supervision
• Paying restitution to victims
• Finishing any court-ordered treatment or education programs

Once the petition is filed, the court will review it and make a determination on whether to grant the request for sealing.

Limitations on Sealing Juvenile Records

While sealing juvenile records can provide significant benefits, there are some limitations to keep in mind:

• Certain serious offenses, such as first-degree murder, may not be eligible for sealing
• Sealed records may still be accessible to some entities, such as law enforcement and background check companies
• Sealing is not the same as expungement – sealed records still exist but are hidden from public view

While sealing your records may not completely eliminate your criminal history, it can offer renewed hope. At Rose Legal Services, our legal team takes sealing records a step further by reaching out to background check companies and having them remove the sealed information from their records so that you can confidently apply for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.

However, we also recommend being forthcoming if something does show up. We advise clients to let potential employers or other relevant parties know that the record has been sealed, and we can provide you with a copy of the court order showing it’s been sealed to present to them. This proactive approach helps ensure that a sealed juvenile record doesn’t continue to affect your opportunities in adulthood.

Don’t Let a Youthful Mistake Define Your Future

A mistake you made as a minor shouldn’t have to follow you around for the rest of your life. Our team at Rose Legal Services is passionate about helping good people get a fresh start and move forward with their lives after a juvenile offense.

Our team has been assisting clients for more thanr 20 years. Our goal is to help you put your past behind you so that you can focus on building a bright future. Whether you’re applying for college, seeking employment, or pursuing other opportunities, we’ll work to help you overcome the obstacles that a juvenile record can create.

If you have a juvenile felony record in Missouri, don’t let it hold you back. Contact Rose Legal Services today for a confidential consultation with one of our attorneys.