Massachusetts Expungement Laws 2026
Massachusetts expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Massachusetts.
Massachusetts allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Sealing (CORI)", governed by Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 276 § 100A.
At a glance
| Detail | Massachusetts |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Sealing (CORI) |
| Statute | Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 276 § 100A |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | 3-7 years by offense |
| Eligible records | Eligible CORI records after a waiting period |
| Process | Petition the court to seal the criminal record |
Who is eligible
Eligible CORI records after a waiting period.
How the process works
Petition the court to seal the criminal record.
Source and last verified
Statute: Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 276 § 100A. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Massachusetts records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, the relief is called "Sealing (CORI)", governed by Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 276 § 100A.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Massachusetts?
3-7 years by offense.
Who can clear a record in Massachusetts?
Eligible CORI records after a waiting period.
Does Massachusetts clear records automatically?
No — in Massachusetts you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.