Brooklyn Record Sealing Attorneys (CPL 160.59)

Reviewed: May 28, 2026

Brooklyn (Kings County) is the most-populated borough in New York City and has one of the largest criminal court caseloads in the state. CPL 160.59 sealing petitions for Brooklyn convictions are filed in the Kings County Criminal Court (for misdemeanors) or Kings County Supreme Court (for felonies). The Kings County District Attorney's office has been one of the more active prosecutors in the state in supporting record-sealing initiatives.

At a glance

✓ File in Kings County Criminal Court (120 Schermerhorn St) for misdemeanors; Kings County Supreme Court for felonies
✓ Brooklyn DA has supported sealing through Clean Slate community initiatives
✓ Free help: Brooklyn Defender Services, CAMBA Legal Services, Legal Aid Society Brooklyn
✓ Waiting period: 10 crime-free years; up to 2 convictions, no more than 1 felony
✓ Timeline: 6–10 months from filing to decision in Kings County

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.

Filing a sealing petition in Kings County

CPL 160.59 sealing petitions for Brooklyn convictions go to the Kings County Criminal Court (120 Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn) for misdemeanor cases, or to the Kings County Supreme Court (Criminal Term) for felony cases. You must obtain a certified copy of the judgment of conviction and file the petition along with a supporting affirmation setting out your history since the conviction.

The Kings County District Attorney's office must be served and has 45 days to respond in writing. After the DA's response (or after the 45-day window passes), the court schedules a hearing. Brooklyn courts are busy and hearing wait times can be several months from the filing date.

Brooklyn DA's approach to record sealing

The Kings County DA's office has been among the more progressive in New York State regarding record sealing. The Brooklyn DA has run Clean Slate clinics in partnership with community organizations and has generally declined to oppose meritorious sealing petitions for non-violent offenses where the petitioner demonstrates rehabilitation and need.

Even with a supportive DA's office, sealing under CPL 160.59 is discretionary — the court must affirmatively grant the petition. A strong petition with letters of support, employment documentation, and a clear statement of need gives the judge the information to rule in your favor.

Free help in Brooklyn

Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS) represents Brooklyn residents at all stages including post-conviction sealing. CAMBA Legal Services in Brooklyn provides civil legal assistance to low-income residents and assists with criminal record relief. The Legal Aid Society has a Brooklyn office with a reentry unit. New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) serves all of NYC including Brooklyn residents.

Statutes cited

New York Criminal Procedure Law § 160.59 (Sealing of criminal records) — N.Y. CPL § 160.59

Frequently asked questions

Where do I file a sealing petition for a Brooklyn conviction?

File in the Kings County Criminal Court at 120 Schermerhorn Street for misdemeanor convictions, or Kings County Supreme Court (Criminal Term) for felony convictions. The petition goes to the court that originally sentenced you.

Does the Brooklyn DA support sealing petitions?

The Kings County DA's office has generally supported sealing for non-violent offenses where the petitioner demonstrates rehabilitation. They have run Clean Slate initiatives and declined to oppose many meritorious petitions. However, sealing is still discretionary — the judge makes the final decision.

Is there free sealing help in Brooklyn?

Yes — Brooklyn Defender Services (BDS), CAMBA Legal Services, and the Legal Aid Society's Brooklyn office all offer free or low-cost sealing assistance. Income eligibility typically applies.

How long does sealing take in Kings County?

Most well-prepared Brooklyn petitions take 6 to 10 months from filing to decision. The 45-day DA response window plus court scheduling determine the timeline.

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