Can I Get a Misdemeanor Removed from My Record in California?
Can I Get a Misdemeanor Removed from My Record in California?
A misdemeanor conviction can have long-term consequences, affecting your ability to secure employment, housing, or professional licenses. Fortunately, California law provides a process to clear your record in certain cases through expungement.
At the Law Office of Robert Little, we provide legal assistance to the California public, helping individuals navigate the process of removing misdemeanors from their records and restoring their future opportunities.
What Is Expungement?
Expungement allows you to reopen a criminal case, withdraw your guilty or no contest plea, and have the court dismiss your case. While the conviction will still be visible to law enforcement and some government agencies, it will no longer appear on most public background checks, providing significant relief.
Eligibility for Misdemeanor Expungement in California
To be eligible for expungement, you must meet the following criteria:
- Completion of Sentence
- You must have successfully completed your sentence, including probation, jail time, community service, and fines.
- No Pending Charges
- You cannot have any ongoing criminal cases or charges against you.
- Certain Offenses Are Ineligible
- Some misdemeanors, such as certain sex crimes involving minors, are not eligible for expungement.
The Expungement Process
- Filing the Petition
- A petition for expungement must be filed in the court where you were convicted.
- Court Review
- The court will review your case and consider factors such as your behavior since the conviction and the nature of the offense.
- Hearing
- In some cases, a hearing may be held, and the judge will decide whether to grant the expungement.
Benefits of Expungement
- Improved Employment Opportunities: Most employers will not see expunged convictions on background checks.
- Better Housing Options: Expungement can remove barriers when applying for rental housing.
- Restored Reputation: It offers a sense of closure and a fresh start.
How Law Office of Robert Little Can Help
At the Law Office of Robert Little, we:
- Assess your eligibility for expungement.
- Prepare and file all necessary paperwork.
- Represent you in court hearings to advocate for your expungement.
Contact Us Today
If you’re seeking to have a misdemeanor removed from your record in California, contact the Law Office of Robert Little for experienced legal assistance. Let us help you take the next step toward a brighter future.
