Ohio: Adult Convictions (OH-C-5)

Records relating to a felony of the fourth or fifth degree or a misdemeanor can be sealed by the court. ORC Ann. §§ 2953.32, 2953.31.

Record Detail(s)

Misdemeanor

Felony

Previous Conviction Disqualifying

Potentially, see statute

Mandatory / Discretionary

Discretionary

Clearance Process

Petition-based

Remedy

Seal

Ineligible Category or Citation

See section 2953.43 for offenses ineligible for clearance.

Procedure General

The petition must be filed in the court of conviction if convicted in Ohio, or in a court of common pleas if convicted in another state or federal court. For specific procedure, see ORC Ann. § 2953.32.

Fees

The petitioner shall pay $50, unless indigent. ORC Ann.§ 2953.32(C)(3).

Effect

The proceedings in the case are deemed not to have occurred. The person may not be questioned about sealed convictions, unless the question bears a direct and substantial relationship to the position for which the person is being considered. See ORC Ann. section 2953.32(D) for circumstances where record inspection is allowed. ORC Ann. § 2953.32 et seq.

Waiting Periods

The petition may be filed one year after final discharge.

Back to Ohio