Can a Criminal Record Be Expunged in California?
Clearing Your Record: Understanding Expungement in California
A criminal record can impact many aspects of your life—from job opportunities and housing to professional licensing and public reputation. Fortunately, California offers a legal process known as expungement that allows eligible individuals to clear certain convictions from their record. At the Law Office of Robert Little, we assist clients throughout California in navigating this process to help them move forward with confidence.
What Is Expungement?
Expungement in California refers to the legal process of dismissing a conviction from your record. While it does not completely erase the conviction, it updates the record to show that the case was dismissed, which can be beneficial for employment and other background checks. This process is governed by California Penal Code § 1203.4.
Who Is Eligible for Expungement?
Not every conviction can be expunged. Generally, you may qualify if:
- You were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony and did not serve time in state prison, or served time in county jail under realignment laws (AB 109).
- You completed probation successfully or obtained early termination of probation.
- You are not currently charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for another offense.
- You have fulfilled all court requirements, including payment of fines, restitution, and community service.
Even if your probation was violated, you might still be eligible depending on the circumstances—though expungement is not guaranteed.
What Can Expungement Do For You?
- Improve Job Prospects: In most cases, you can legally state that you have not been convicted of a crime.
- Enhance Housing Opportunities: Landlords may be more likely to approve your rental application.
- Support Licensing Applications: Many state boards consider expungement favorably during background checks.
- Provide Peace of Mind: An expungement can help you put the past behind you and regain your sense of dignity.
However, expungement does not:
- Restore your right to own or possess a firearm if it was lost due to a conviction.
- Remove the conviction from law enforcement databases.
- Prevent the conviction from being used as a prior offense in future criminal proceedings.
- Eliminate the duty to register as a sex offender, if applicable.
The Expungement Process
The process involves filing a petition for dismissal with the court where the conviction occurred. In some cases, a court hearing may be required. It's important to present a well-prepared petition and supporting documentation—this is where an attorney can make a significant difference.
At the Law Office of Robert Little, we evaluate your eligibility, prepare all necessary paperwork, and represent you in court if needed. Our goal is to make the process as efficient and stress-free as possible.
Ready to Clear Your Record?
If you or someone you know is burdened by a past conviction in California, contact the Law Office of Robert Little. Our legal team is committed to helping individuals take the next step toward a better future through record expungement.
