Judge Tom
The laws vary from state to state on this. Expungement or destruction of your son’s juvenile record may be his only option. As you already know, it may be expunged, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that the offense is forever erased. Certain departments/agencies such as the military may (this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be the case for your son) have access to certain records that show the offense such as arrest records, which usually are not destroyed even if the record of the conviction is destroyed. You could try Googling the name of your state and “destruction or expungement of juvenile record” for specific information based on the laws in your state. Otherwise, talk to the clerk at the court about this or you could ask the court/law library if they offer a free legal assistance program, which is offered in many courts throughout the country. Good luck to your son. (Check our Teen Help Network for more help and resources in your area. This is information only – not legal advice.)

