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 Idaho, juvenile records are generally protected under state law to maintain the confidentiality of young individuals 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 typically restricted to certain parties, such as court personnel, law enforcement, and sometimes the juvenile and their parents or guardians, depending on the circumstances. Idaho law provides mechanisms for sealing and expunging juvenile records, which can shield a juvenile's past from public view and help prevent the long-term consequences of having a juvenile record. The process and eligibility for sealing or expungement of juvenile records can vary, and it often involves petitioning the court and demonstrating rehabilitation or the passage of a certain amount of time without subsequent offenses. These protections are in place to support the rehabilitation of juveniles and their successful integration into society, recognizing that juvenile behavior should not necessarily impose lifelong penalties.