Having a criminal record in California can make it difficult to secure employment, housing, or professional licenses. Fortunately, California law provides options to seal or restrict certain records, helping individuals move forward with a clean slate. At the Law Office of Robert Little, we assist Californians in understanding and pursuing these legal remedies.

What Does It Mean to Seal or Restrict a Record?

• Sealing a Record: When a record is sealed, it is no longer accessible to the public, though some government agencies may still have limited access.
• Restricting a Record: This typically applies to arrest records where charges were never filed or were dismissed. The record is updated to show that the arrest should not be used against the individual.

Eligibility to Seal or Restrict Records

1. Arrest Records – If you were arrested but never charged, or if charges were dismissed, you may be eligible to restrict your arrest record under California Penal Code §851.91.
2. Juvenile Records – Many juvenile records can be sealed once the individual reaches adulthood and completes their sentence or probation.
3. Dismissed or Acquitted Cases – If a case ended in your favor, you may qualify for record sealing.
4. Convictions – In some situations, expungement is available for certain convictions, which can clear your record for most employment purposes.

Why Sealing or Restricting Matters

A sealed or restricted record allows you to legally state in most situations that you have not been arrested or convicted. This can significantly improve opportunities for employment, housing, and other aspects of life.

The Process

• Filing a petition in court.
• Providing documentation of the arrest, case outcome, or conviction.
• Attending a hearing, if required.

An attorney can help ensure all forms are filed correctly and present arguments in support of your petition.

At the Law Office of Robert Little, we guide California residents through the process of sealing or restricting their records, helping them protect their future opportunities.