How long do juvenile records stay on file?

In Washington State, juvenile records generally stay on file for a period of three years, although there are some exceptions. These records include any police reports, court appearances, and convictions that a juvenile has. The length of time a juvenile record remains on file will depend on the severity of the crime. For example, if a juvenile is charged with a felony, their records will remain on file for at least three years, and possibly longer if the judge orders it. In some cases, juvenile records may be sealed or expunged after a certain period of time. This means that the records are no longer available to the general public, which can help the juvenile avoid further legal issues in the future. However, certain law enforcement and court personnel may still be able to access the records. Additionally, the Washington Supreme Court has ruled that any juvenile records that are older than 20 years cannot be released to the public. This helps to ensure that juveniles who were charged with a crime in their youth can live free of the stigma of their past crimes. Overall, juvenile records generally stay on file in Washington State for a period of three years, although this period may be extended if the judge orders it. Sealing or expungement of the records is available in some circumstances, and records that are more than 20 years old cannot be released to the public.

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How long do juvenile records stay on file?

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