How Long Does a Felony Stay on Your Record in Nevada?

If you’ve been convicted of a felony in Nevada, you’re probably wondering how long it will haunt your record. The short answer? A felony conviction typically stays on your record indefinitely unless you take action to remove it. But there are options available to clean up your record and move forward with your life.

The Hard Truth About Felony Convictions in Nevada

A felony conviction is serious business. It doesn’t just disappear after a certain number of years. Without taking specific legal action, that felony will stick around on your record, potentially impacting:

• Job opportunities
• Housing applications
• Loan approvals
• Gun ownership rights
• Voting rights (while incarcerated)

But here’s the good news: Nevada law provides some options for clearing your record.

Option 1: Sealing Your Record

Record sealing is the most common way to address a felony conviction in Nevada. When your record is sealed, it’s hidden from public view. Most employers and landlords won’t be able to see it.

Here’s what you need to know about sealing a felony record in Nevada:

Waiting Periods

You can’t seal your record immediately after conviction. There are waiting periods:

• Category A felonies: 10 years after release from custody or discharge from parole/probation
• Category B, C, or D felonies: 5 years after release from custody or discharge from parole/probation
• Category E felonies: 2 years after release from custody or discharge from parole/probation

Exceptions

Some felonies can’t be sealed, including:

• Crimes against children
• Sexual offenses
• Felony DUIs

The Process

Sealing a record isn’t automatic. You need to petition the court, and the prosecution can object. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side can make a big difference.

Option 2: Pardons

A pardon from the Nevada Board of Pardons Commissioners can restore some rights lost due to a felony conviction. However, it doesn’t remove the conviction from your record. Pardons are rare and typically reserved for exceptional circumstances.

What About Expungement?

You might have heard the term “expungement” – essentially erasing a conviction from your record. Unfortunately, Nevada doesn’t offer expungement for adult criminal records. Record sealing is the closest equivalent.

The Impact of a Sealed Record

Once your record is sealed, you can legally say “no” if asked if you’ve been convicted of a crime (with some exceptions for certain government agencies and licensing boards).

A sealed record can help you:

• Pass most background checks
• Improve your chances of getting hired
• Qualify for better housing
• Restore certain rights, like gun ownership

But remember, sealing isn’t perfect. Some agencies can still access sealed records, and if you’re arrested again, the court can unseal your record.

What If You Can’t Seal Your Record?

If you’re not eligible for record sealing, all hope isn’t lost. You can still:

• Be upfront about your conviction and show how you’ve changed
• Seek out employers and landlords who are open to hiring or renting to people with records
• Look into programs that help people with felony convictions find employment or housing

Here’s the bottom line: a felony conviction will stay on your record indefinitely unless you take action. The sooner you start the process, the sooner you can move forward with your life.

At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we’ve helped countless clients navigate the record-sealing process. We know the ins and outs of Nevada law and can guide you through each step, from determining your eligibility to filing the petition and representing you in court if necessary.

Don’t Let Your Past Define Your Future

A felony conviction doesn’t have to be a life sentence. With the right legal help, you can take steps to clear your record and open up new opportunities.

If you’re ready to explore your options for dealing with a felony on your record, don’t wait. Contact Benjamin Durham Law Firm today for a free, confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you chart a path forward.

Remember, everyone deserves a second chance. Let us help you make the most of yours. Call us now – the sooner we start, the sooner we can help you move past your conviction and towards a brighter future.