Eviction sealing is a process that removes eviction records from public view. (NNS file photo)

Eviction filings are high in Milwaukee.

But some with eviction records may be able to get them sealed.

Advertisement

We spoke with Abrielle Newman, a staff attorney with Legal Action of Wisconsin, to explain how eviction sealing works.

What is an eviction sealing?

Eviction sealing is a process that removes eviction records from public view.

The process can make it easier for tenants to find apartments to rent.

How are evictions sealed?

Newman said there are two processes you can take to have an eviction sealed.

The first one involves getting the landlord who initiated the eviction to agree to seal the case.

If the landlord agrees, you would then file a motion to seal the record. Documentation can be found at the Milwaukee County Courthouse, 901 N. 9th St.

You turn that paperwork in to small claims court, Room 409, at the courthouse.

More guidance from the county and samples of the form can be found here.

“After that, it doesn’t take long,” Newman said. “The judge will remove it in a day or so.”

If the landlord disagrees, Newman said, you can still file a motion to seal the eviction.

The second process is similar to the first. You just file a motion to seal the eviction without the signoff of a landlord.

What else should you know?

Newman said most cases that are sealed are over 10 years old and those that are fully dismissed. This means they have no money judgments.

She said if there is a money judgment, it is best to pay it so the case can be dismissed.

Where can you get help?

You can attend the Legal Aid Society’s monthly seal clinics at the Rental Housing Resource Center, 728 N. James Lovell St. Find information on upcoming clinics here.  

You could also go visit the Eviction Defense Project in Courthouse Room 406 starting at 12:30 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays of each month. The project also provides services that can help you get your eviction sealed.

Other eviction resources

Creative Commons License

Republish our articles for free, online or in print, under a Creative Commons license.

PrincessSafiya Byers was born and raised in Milwaukee, and is a 2020 graduate of Marquette University, majoring in Journalism and Africana Studies. Her commitment to her community has led her to nonprofit work with local youth and families. She’s also interned with the Milwaukee Community Journal and the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and joins Milwaukee NNS as a Report for America Staff Reporter looking to serve democracy by covering issues important to the community.