Expungement in Nevada
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Nevada allows expungement of most convictions immediately upon completion of sentence, with records sealed from public view.
How Nevada treats Expungement
Nevada permits expungement under Nev. Rev. Stat. § 179.255 for most felonies and misdemeanors upon completion of sentence, probation, or parole—no waiting period required in many cases. Once expunged, records are sealed and the person may legally answer that they were not arrested or convicted, except when applying for certain licenses or positions. Some violent offenses and sex crimes have longer waiting periods or are ineligible. The petitioner may petition the court, and expungement is generally granted unless the prosecution shows good cause for denial.
The general definition of Expungement
A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.
Expungement allows you to have a criminal conviction removed from your official record, as if it never happened. Once expunged, you can legally say you were never convicted of that crime in most situations. Not all convictions qualify—eligibility depends on the crime, how much time has passed, and your state's laws. This gives people a fresh start and removes barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Read the full Expungement entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Nevada.