How to Seal an Eviction Record in Maine

If you’ve faced an eviction in Maine, you may worry about your record making it difficult to rent in the future. Maine state law offers some renters the opportunity to have eviction records sealed, depending on your situation and the outcome of the court case. This guide breaks down what it means to seal an eviction record, who's eligible, and the steps renters in Maine can take to protect their privacy.

Understanding Eviction Records in Maine

When a landlord files a formal eviction (also called a "Forcible Entry and Detainer") against a tenant, that legal action creates a public court record. This record can show up in background checks and may impact your ability to rent a new home.

Maine courts occasionally allow these records to be sealed, meaning they’re hidden from public view under specific conditions outlined by Maine law.

Who Can Request to Seal an Eviction Record?

Sealing is not automatic. Generally, Maine courts consider sealing an eviction record when:

• The eviction case was dismissed or ruled in the tenant’s favor
• The eviction filing was based on mistaken identity or clear legal errors
• The parties reached a settlement that includes a sealing agreement
• Other special circumstances where public access to the record would cause undue harm

The Maine Judicial Branch (court system) oversees these requests. For more details on their process, visit the Maine Judicial Branch website.

How to Request the Sealing of an Eviction Record

To begin, you’ll typically need to submit a formal written motion to the District Court where your eviction case was heard. This process is known as "filing a Motion to Seal."

Key Official Forms

• Motion to Seal Record: While Maine does not provide a statewide, pre-printed form for sealing eviction records, tenants can file a general Motion using court motion forms and specifying their request to seal.
  • How it's used: If your eviction was dismissed, you would fill out a standard Motion form, stating your case (such as “I request that the eviction record in Docket No. XX-XX be sealed because the action was dismissed on [date]”). Attach supporting documents, like your dismissal order. File the Motion with the District Court where your case was heard.
  • Download Motion forms from the Maine Judicial Branch
• Order on Motion (Form CV-195): After you file your Motion, the court may use this form to document whether the request is granted or denied.

What Happens After You File?

After you submit your Motion to Seal, the court usually reviews your request and may schedule a hearing. Both you and your landlord can present arguments. If the judge agrees your record should be sealed, the court will issue an order, and the eviction record will be hidden from public searches. Check your mail or the Maine eCourts system for updates.

What Are the Requirements Under Maine Law?

Maine's main rental law is the Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709: Forcible Entry and Detainer. While this law governs the eviction process, sealing a record is decided by the Maine District Court, sometimes using their discretion for motions under general court procedure.

• There is no automatic right to sealing; the judge decides based on the facts of your case.
• Successful sealing means landlords, employers, and most members of the public can't access your eviction record through court record searches.

Practical Steps for Renters

• Gather all paperwork related to your eviction (case number, orders, settlement papers).
• Download and complete a Motion form from the Maine Judicial Branch's official court forms page.
• Write a short statement explaining exactly why you are requesting the record be sealed.
• File the completed Motion with the District Court that handled your eviction.
• Attend any court hearing, and bring documentation showing your eligibility.
• Monitor your case for the judge's decision and obtain a copy of the order if your motion is granted.

FAQ About Sealing Eviction Records in Maine

1. Can all eviction records in Maine be sealed?
   No. Only certain cases where the court finds sufficient reasons under Maine law may be sealed. Most often, this happens if the case was dismissed, ruled in the tenant's favor, or involved special circumstances.
2. Is there a fee to seal an eviction record in Maine?
   There may be a filing fee for motions at District Court. If you can't afford the fee, you can request a waiver using the Application to Proceed Without Payment of Fees (CV-067).
3. Will sealing my eviction record remove it from background checks?
   If the court seals your eviction record, it should no longer appear in most standard public records searches, but you may need to provide proof of sealing if a background check provider still reports it.
4. How long does it take to seal an eviction record?
   The process can take several weeks, depending on the court's schedule. Make sure you check for updates and attend any required hearings.
5. Can I get help filing to seal my eviction record?
   Yes! Free legal aid, court self-help resources, and tenant advocates can help you understand your rights and complete the forms.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Maine courts may seal an eviction record in limited cases, especially if the tenant prevailed or the case was dismissed.
• To start the process, renters must file a written Motion with the District Court – using official forms whenever possible.
• Check with the Maine Judicial Branch and legal resources for help and updates during the process.

Be proactive: sealing your eviction record can make a real difference for your housing opportunities in the future.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Maine Judicial Branch – District Courts
• Pine Tree Legal Assistance (Free Legal Aid for Renters)
• Maine State Agencies Directory
• Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709 – Evictions/Ejectment

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1. Maine Revised Statutes Title 14, Chapter 709
2. Maine Judicial Branch – Court Filings and Forms
3. Pine Tree Legal Assistance

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