Having a criminal record can have a negative impact on your life—whether you're attempting to get a loan or find a new job, often times you must disclose if you have been convicted of a crime. However, there is a way to “clean” your California criminal record; this is done through the legal process of expungement.

Under California law, expungement for a misdemeanor and most felonies is possible if the person has 1) successfully completed their probation, and 2) is not currently facing other criminal charges, on probation for a criminal offense, or serving a sentence for a criminal offense. Once you petition the court for an expungement, if the judge determines you have met the requirements, your guilty plea or plea of no contest will be withdrawn, your conviction will be set aside, and your charge will be dismissed. 

Getting an Expungement

How to go about getting an expungement and sealing your criminal record in California depends on several things including what type of crime you were arrested and charged with (misdemeanor or felony). Because it can get tricky, it is important to have the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney by your side. A skilled criminal defense attorney can help guide you through the expungement process so your charge will be dismissed.

What You Need

Getting an expungement will require lots of details about your case. If possible, bring your attorney the following information: 

• Your case number
• Date of conviction
• The code name and section number you were convicted of violating
• Information regarding whether there was a verdict or if you entered a plea

If you are having trouble getting this information, just speak with your attorney who can assist at all stages of the expungement process.

Having a criminal record expunged, cleared, or destroyed can be an excellent way to gain a fresh start on life. One particular benefit is that an expunged conviction is considered a dismissed charge for most purposes allowing you to find work and move forward with your life. If an old criminal conviction is holding you back, contact the Kann California Defense Group today for a free and confidential consultation to discuss expunging your criminal record. 888-744-7730