Massachusetts CORI Sealing Attorneys

Reviewed: May 15, 2026

Massachusetts CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) is the state criminal record system administered by the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services (DCJIS). G.L. c.276 § 100A allows eligible people to petition to seal their CORI from most background checks. Sealing does not destroy the record — it remains visible to law enforcement and certain government agencies — but it removes the record from public view and consumer background checks.

At a glance

✓ 3-year waiting period for misdemeanors; 7-year for felonies
✓ Free online petition through DCJIS — no attorney required for most cases
✓ Non-conviction records (dismissals, not guilty) sealed immediately
✓ Record is hidden from public but accessible to law enforcement
✓ Certain violent crimes and sex offenses are not eligible

Important: This page provides general legal information about expungement and record sealing laws. It is not legal advice for your specific situation. Eligibility rules vary by state, county, and individual circumstances. Always consult a licensed attorney before taking any legal action.

Waiting periods and eligible offenses

For misdemeanor convictions, the waiting period is 3 years from conviction or release (whichever is later). For felony convictions, the waiting period is 7 years. Certain violent crimes and sex offenses are not eligible for sealing. Non-conviction records (dismissals, not guilty verdicts, charges not prosecuted) can be sealed immediately in most cases.

In 2018, the Massachusetts legislature significantly reduced waiting periods (from 10/15 years to 3/7 years) and authorized online petition filing through the DCJIS, making the process more accessible.

How to seal — two options

Option 1 — Direct petition to DCJIS: For most conviction records, you can petition online or by mail to DCJIS using form CJIS-3. This is free. DCJIS processes the petition and notifies affected courts and law enforcement agencies.

Option 2 — Court petition (G.L. c.276 § 100C): For certain records or contested sealings, a petition to the court that heard the case may be required. A hearing may be held if the DA objects.

Effect of sealing

After sealing, the record does not appear on most background checks. For private employment, housing, and education, you may state that you have no criminal record. The sealed record remains visible to law enforcement, courts, the parole board, and certain licensed professions. A new conviction after sealing can result in the sealed record being unsealed.

Statutes cited

G.L. c.276 § 100A (CORI sealing — conviction records) — Mass. Gen. Laws c.276 § 100A
G.L. c.276 § 100C (Court-ordered sealing) — Mass. Gen. Laws c.276 § 100C

Frequently asked questions

Can I seal a felony conviction?

Yes, if 7 years have passed since conviction or release and the offense is not among the disqualifying categories (certain violent and sex crimes).

Is there a fee to seal my CORI?

The DCJIS petition process is free. Court petitions may involve filing fees. Attorney fees vary.

What if I was convicted in multiple cases?

Each case is sealed separately. The waiting period runs from the most recent conviction or release across all cases — the clock restarts with each new offense. An attorney can calculate the correct waiting period.

Does sealing affect immigration status?

Sealing a Massachusetts CORI does not affect federal immigration law. Criminal convictions remain relevant to immigration status regardless of state sealing. Consult an immigration attorney before relying on sealing for immigration purposes.

Find an expungement attorney in Massachusetts

Browse verified attorneys in Massachusetts who handle cori sealing cases. Every listing is built from Massachusetts State Bar public records.

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