Expungement Representation From An Experienced Irvine Criminal Defense Attorney
A criminal conviction can follow you long after your sentence is served, affecting employment, housing and professional opportunities for years. California law provides legal options for eligible individuals through expungement.
With a practice dedicated exclusively to criminal law, Ron Cordova has defended clients in California criminal courts for more than 40 years. At his firm, Ron Cordova Attorney At Law, he is known for identifying practical, legally sound options and pursuing every available option on behalf of his clients.
What Is An Expungement In California?
Under Penal Code Section 1203.4, a court may dismiss your conviction once you have completed all conditions of your sentence. This includes successfully completing a term of probation, receiving an early release from probation granted by the court or satisfying any post-release supervision requirements imposed as part of your sentence.
If you were not granted probation but served a jail sentence or paid a fine, then you may also petition for dismissal under Penal Code Section 1203.4a. The legal action taken is a dismissal, not an erasure of your record.
Once granted, an expungement allows you to lawfully answer “no” when asked about prior convictions on most private employer job applications. However, law enforcement and certain government agencies can still see it on your record.
An expungement does not restore firearm rights, relieve a sex offender registration obligation under Penal Code Section 290 or apply in most cases where the sentence included state prison time. Disclosure is still required for public office, certain professional licenses and law enforcement positions.
You may also note that an expungement is distinct from record sealing under Penal Code Section 851.87, which applies to arrests that did not result in a conviction.
Who Qualifies For Expungement In California?
Not every conviction is eligible. California determines eligibility by the nature of the offense, the sentence imposed and whether you completed all terms of that sentence. You may qualify if:
- You were convicted of a misdemeanor or a qualifying felony not resulting in a state prison sentence
- You completed probation or received a court-granted early termination
- You are not currently charged with, on probation for or serving a sentence for another offense
- You have met all conditions of your sentence, including fines and restitution
Even when you meet the eligibility requirements, the court has the final say in ruling on a petition. How that petition is prepared and presented can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
A Strong Defense To Discuss Your Expungement Options
A criminal record can limit your opportunities even after you’ve done your time. California expungement law involves precise eligibility requirements, and the outcome of a petition often depends on how thoroughly a case is prepared and presented.
Attorney Cordova represents individuals in Irvine and throughout Orange County, examining every angle of their cases and identifying legal options that are both creative and realistic. To schedule a free consultation, call 949-769-2175 or contact him online.