How Long Does Theft Stay on Your Record?
When you’re accused of theft, it can be a life-altering experience. The consequences of a theft conviction can affect your future, from your ability to find employment to your chances of getting a loan or even renting an apartment. But how long does a theft conviction stay on your record?
The Answer: It Depends
The length of time a theft conviction stays on your record varies depending on the jurisdiction, the severity of the crime, and the type of conviction. In general, theft convictions can stay on your record for 7-10 years, but it’s not uncommon for them to remain for 15-20 years or even lifetime.
Types of Theft Convictions
There are different types of theft convictions, each with its own set of consequences:
- Misdemeanor theft: A misdemeanor theft conviction typically stays on your record for 7-10 years.
- Felony theft: A felony theft conviction can stay on your record for 15-20 years or even lifetime.
- Felony theft with a prior conviction: If you have a prior felony conviction, a subsequent felony theft conviction can stay on your record for lifetime.
State-by-State Comparison
The length of time a theft conviction stays on your record varies from state to state. Here’s a breakdown of the laws in each state:
| State | Misdemeanor Theft | Felony Theft | Felony Theft with Prior Conviction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Alaska | 5 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Arizona | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Arkansas | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| California | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Colorado | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Connecticut | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Delaware | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Florida | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Georgia | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Hawaii | 5 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Idaho | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Illinois | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Indiana | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Iowa | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Kansas | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Kentucky | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Louisiana | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Maine | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Maryland | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Massachusetts | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Michigan | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Minnesota | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Mississippi | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Missouri | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Montana | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Nebraska | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Nevada | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| New Hampshire | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| New Jersey | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| New Mexico | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| New York | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| North Carolina | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| North Dakota | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Ohio | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Oklahoma | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Oregon | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Pennsylvania | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Rhode Island | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| South Carolina | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| South Dakota | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Tennessee | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Texas | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Utah | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Vermont | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Virginia | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Washington | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| West Virginia | 7 years | 15 years | Lifetime |
| Wisconsin | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
| Wyoming | 7 years | 10 years | Lifetime |
Consequences of a Theft Conviction
A theft conviction can have serious consequences, including:
- Loss of employment opportunities: Many employers check criminal records, and a theft conviction can make it difficult to find employment.
- Difficulty finding housing: Landlords often check criminal records, and a theft conviction can make it difficult to rent an apartment or house.
- Difficulty getting a loan: Lenders often check criminal records, and a theft conviction can make it difficult to get a loan or credit.
- Difficulty getting a job with a professional license: Many professional licenses require a background check, and a theft conviction can make it difficult to get a license.
Expungement and Sealing
In some cases, it may be possible to expunge or seal a theft conviction, which means that it will not appear on your criminal record. However, this is typically only possible for misdemeanor theft convictions and requires a petition to the court.
Conclusion
A theft conviction can have serious consequences, including the loss of employment opportunities, difficulty finding housing, and difficulty getting a loan. The length of time a theft conviction stays on your record varies depending on the jurisdiction, the severity of the crime, and the type of conviction. In general, theft convictions can stay on your record for 7-10 years, but it’s not uncommon for them to remain for 15-20 years or even lifetime. If you have a theft conviction, it’s essential to understand the consequences and explore options for expungement or sealing.
