Juvenile and other courts, and law enforcement and other public agencies maintain a variety of records regarding juveniles who become involved in the juvenile justice system and the criminal justice system—including arrest records, school records, medical or behavioral health records, and family and social history. Many states have laws that restrict access to these records to protect youth from the stigma of a record in the juvenile justice system or criminal justice system. The confidentiality of juvenile records is in contrast with the open records laws that apply to adults in the criminal justice system. Laws regarding access to juvenile records, sealing of juvenile records, and expungement (destruction or deletion) of juvenile records vary from state to state, and are usually located in a state’s statutes.

In Alaska, juvenile records are protected under state law to maintain the confidentiality of minors who have been involved in the juvenile justice system. These records include information such as arrest records, school performance, medical or behavioral health information, and family or social history. Access to juvenile records is generally limited to certain parties, such as court personnel, law enforcement, and some government agencies, and is not available to the public to the same extent as adult criminal records. Alaska law provides mechanisms for sealing and expungement of juvenile records, which can further protect a juvenile's privacy and limit the long-term impact of having been involved in the justice system. The process for sealing or expunging records typically involves a petition to the court, and eligibility may depend on factors such as the nature of the offense, the time elapsed since the offense, and the individual's subsequent behavior. It's important to consult with an attorney to understand the specific requirements and procedures for sealing or expunging juvenile records in Alaska.