Criminal Record (Rishum Plili): How to Remove an Entry from the Police Database

The Essence

A criminal record, or "Rishum Plili" (רישום פלילי), is an internal record maintained by the Israel Police of your offenses. Although this information is confidential, many government and licensing authorities have access to it, which can restrict your rights. The primary method for expunging this record is to submit a pardon application to the President of Israel, which can lead to the complete deletion of the record or a reduction of its statutory periods.

Who is Eligible?

Any individual with a criminal record in Israel is eligible to apply for a pardon. However, decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, and the chances of success depend on the following factors:

• The time elapsed since the offense was committed: The more time that has passed, the higher the chances.
• The severity of the offense: Applications concerning minor offenses are more likely to be approved than those for serious crimes.
• Your conduct following the conviction: Positive references from an employer or educational institution, military service, volunteer activities, and evidence of rehabilitation significantly increase the chances of success.
• Personal and family circumstances: Financial hardship, health issues, or the need to obtain a professional license for employment may be taken into consideration.
• The absence of new offenses: A clean record after serving the sentence is a key factor.

Who is generally NOT approved: Individuals applying shortly after committing a serious crime or who have new, open cases.

Your Rights

If your application is approved by the President, you may be granted one of the following outcomes:

• Complete Expungement of the Record (מחיקת הרישום הפלילי): The record is completely erased, as if it never existed. This is the most desirable outcome.
• Reduction of the Limitation Period (קיצור תקופת ההתיישנות): After the "limitation period" expires, information about the conviction is no longer disclosed to most organizations (except for a narrow list, such as the Shin Bet, the police, and the military).
• Reduction of the Expungement Period (קיצור תקופת המחיקה): After the "expungement period" expires, the record is completely deleted and is considered non-existent for all purposes, including for security agencies.

Step-by-Step Guide

The process of applying for a pardon requires careful preparation.

1. Information Gathering: Obtain a current copy of your "Rishum Plili" from any police station to know exactly what records exist.
2. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents as per the list below. Pay special attention to letters of recommendation and proof of rehabilitation.
3. Writing a Personal Letter: Draft a detailed and sincere letter to the President. Explain why you are requesting a pardon, describe your life circumstances, express remorse, and detail the positive changes in your life.
4. Completing the Application Form: Find and complete the official "Application for Pardon" form (בקשת חנינה). This form can be found on the official website of the Office of the President of Israel.
5. Submitting the Application: Send the complete package of documents (form, personal letter, supporting documents) to the Pardons Department at the Office of the President (מחלקת חנינות, בית הנשיא). The method of submission (online, mail) should be verified on the official website.
6. Awaiting the Decision: The review process can take from several months to a year or more. Your case will be examined by the Pardons Department of the Ministry of Justice, which will then forward its recommendation to the President for a final decision.

List of Documents

This is a sample list. It is imperative to verify the current requirements on the official website of the Office of the President.

• Official pardon application form ("בקשת חנינה" form).
• Copy of your identity card (Teudat Zehut), including the appendix (sefach).
• A detailed personal letter outlining the request.
• Letters of recommendation (from an employer, teachers, a social worker, etc.).
• Documents confirming rehabilitation (e.g., a certificate of completion of addiction treatment, educational diplomas).
• Court protocols and the court's decision in your case (if available).
• Any other documents that support your claims and special circumstances.

Pitfalls

• The process does not guarantee a result. A pardon is an act of clemency, not a right. Your request may be denied without detailed explanation.
• The quality of the letter is crucial. A poorly written, insincere, or demanding letter will almost certainly lead to rejection. Focus on remorse and positive changes.
• Do not confuse the "limitation period" and the "expungement period." These are distinct legal concepts with different consequences. The record is only deleted after the "expungement period" has passed.
• Assistance from a lawyer. Although you can submit the application independently, consulting with or being represented by a lawyer specializing in criminal law can significantly increase your chances of success.
• Be patient. The application review process is very lengthy. Do not expect a quick response.

Contacts and Links

For current forms and submission instructions, it is necessary to use official government sources.

• Office of the President of Israel (Beit HaNassi): Find the official website via a search engine using the query "בקשת חנינה מנשיא המדינה". The site should have a section dedicated to submitting pardon applications.
• Ministry of Justice (Pardons Department): Typically, all information and forms are centralized on the website of the Office of the President.

Warning: Do not use unofficial websites or intermediaries who promise a guaranteed expungement for a fee. The entire process must be conducted through official channels.

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