Are criminal records really sealed?
When petitioned for and court ordered, expunging criminal records, or sealing, removes some criminal records from electronic databases, so routine checks for criminal record histories do not list the offense. In few instances, these records may be destroyed; however, they can be used for criminal trials or for deep professional background checks.Source:Lawyers.com: Expungement FAQs: Can previously sealed records ever be unsealed?Daily News: Lawyers Rip Release of “Sealed” Records (New York)St.