In Massachusetts, when a criminal record has been sealed, it means that access to the sealed record is restricted to certain authorized entities. While the general public may not have access to the sealed criminal record, there are still specific individuals and organizations that can potentially view the sealed records. Here are some entities that may have access to sealed records:

1. Law Enforcement Agencies: Certain law enforcement agencies, such as police departments and state investigative agencies, may still have access to sealed records for law enforcement purposes.

2. Courts and Prosecutors: Courts and prosecutors may have access to sealed records if there is a subsequent legal proceeding related to the sealed offense. For example, if you are involved in another criminal case, the sealed records may be considered in the context of sentencing or other legal matters.

3. Government Agencies: Certain government agencies, such as child welfare agencies or licensing boards, may have access to sealed records for specific purposes related to their responsibilities. This access is typically granted by state laws or regulations.

4. Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Board: The CORI Board has the authority to access sealed records for purposes such as reviewing eligibility for certain jobs or professional licenses. They have the ability to grant access to authorized individuals or organizations as permitted by law.

It’s important to note that sealed criminal records are generally not accessible to the general public, including potential employers and landlords. The purpose of sealing records is to provide individuals with a fresh start by limiting public access to their past convictions. If you are looking for assistance in sealing your record, call our office at 617-227-8383.