VT H0566

Post-charge diversion records in both juvenile and adult diversion programs will be sealed rather than expunged two years after successful completion, with sealing procedures governed by 13 V.S.A. § 7607

Sealing requires three conditions: two years elapsed since successful diversion completion, no subsequent felony or misdemeanor convictions or pending proceedings, and no outstanding restitution owed

The automatic sealing process applies only to persons completing diversion on or after July 1, 2026; those who completed diversion earlier must apply to court for expungement

Burlington Community Justice Center authorized to operate a pilot program accepting criminal municipal ordinance violation referrals from January 1, 2026 through July 1, 2027

Courts and the Attorney General's Office must maintain a confidential special index of sealed post-charge diversion cases, accessible only by petition from the case subject or for approved research purposes