Can my juvenile record be used against me as an adult?
Question Details:
I had to sign a wavier for a back round check for my daughters school so that i can go on her field trips. I was told that I was denied since I had a charge of position of a illegal substance back 7 years ago when I was 16 years of age; I am now 24 years. Can this be held against me?
In Massachusetts, a juvenile record is sealed, which means that only law enforcement or court agencies should be able to see any charges. A 16 year old in Massachusetts is considered a juvenile, and so this charge should not be available. I would recommend obtaining a copy of your criminal record. If you were in fact 17, it would not be sealed, but you may be able to petition the court where the charge occurred to seal the charge so that it does not hurt you in the future.
