If a defendant files for a sealing of the record, does the victim need to be notified by the prosecutor’s office of the request?
Yes, the request to seal a conviction requires the court to set a hearing before granting the request. ORC 2953.32(B). The hearing would be considered a public proceeding involving the criminal offense under Marsy’s Law. Therefore, if the victim requested notification and provided current contact information, the victim must be notified of the hearing and have the opportunity to be present.