The Clean Slate Act (A. 1029-C) automatically seals certain criminal records to give more New Yorkers a second chance, reduce recidivism and contribute to their communities. Unfortunately, misinformation is being spread and has led to some confusion on what the Act does.
For a misdemeanor, records will be sealed three years after conviction or release from jail. For a felony, records will be sealed eight years after conviction or release from prison. Individuals must maintain a clean record and be no longer on probation or parole in order to qualify for record sealing.