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Give Us a Call: 818-465-0222We All Deserve a Second ChanceHere at McNamara & McNamara we understand that sometimes we make the wrong choices, but that should not get in the way of our future goals.
We will guide you through the paperwork process and help you get on your way to a less-stressful future. |
What is an Expungement?
The word "expungement" is a bit misleading. "Dismissal" is a better term to describe what will happen if the court grants your petition under P.C. 1203.4. Why? An expungement implies that a record of your criminal conviction is completely erased. That won't happen in California. Rather, your conviction record will be updated to reflect that the guilty plea was withdrawn, a "not guilty" plea was entered in its place, probation was terminated, and the case has been "dismissed."
If someone does a background check on you, even after a dismissal, they still may see that a conviction took place. But they will also see that it was later successfully dismissed.
What are the benefits of a dismissal?
There are numerous benefits to getting your conviction dismissed. When applying for a job in the private sector, you can lawfully answer "no" if asked whether you've has been convicted of a crime. However, to be safe you may wish to answer "Yes - Conviction Dismissed." If you are applying for a state license such as a contractor's or real estate license, you still have to disclose it. Basically, you are allowed to get a government license, but you are obliged to provide information about your conviction and the eventual "expungement" while applying for it.
Keep in mind that if you are arrested and or charged with a new crime, the "expunged" convictions can be used against you in sentencing. In addition, on all government forms, you must reveal (upon request) your expunged criminal convictions, and you will still not be able to possess a firearm. Your criminal history will still show your conviction even after your records are expunged, which will be open to the FBI and other governmental bodies.
Can all California convictions be set aside?
No, but most can. Here's how you wouldn't be eligible:
If you need assistance with expunging your criminal record give us a call.
If someone does a background check on you, even after a dismissal, they still may see that a conviction took place. But they will also see that it was later successfully dismissed.
What are the benefits of a dismissal?
There are numerous benefits to getting your conviction dismissed. When applying for a job in the private sector, you can lawfully answer "no" if asked whether you've has been convicted of a crime. However, to be safe you may wish to answer "Yes - Conviction Dismissed." If you are applying for a state license such as a contractor's or real estate license, you still have to disclose it. Basically, you are allowed to get a government license, but you are obliged to provide information about your conviction and the eventual "expungement" while applying for it.
Keep in mind that if you are arrested and or charged with a new crime, the "expunged" convictions can be used against you in sentencing. In addition, on all government forms, you must reveal (upon request) your expunged criminal convictions, and you will still not be able to possess a firearm. Your criminal history will still show your conviction even after your records are expunged, which will be open to the FBI and other governmental bodies.
Can all California convictions be set aside?
No, but most can. Here's how you wouldn't be eligible:
- If you were convicted of certain sex crimes including P.C. 286(c), 288, 288.5, 288a(c), or 289(j) or a felony under P.C. section 261.5(d);
- If you were convicted of certain Vehicle Code violations under 42002.1 and 42001;
- If you were sentenced to a state prison term, even if that sentence was suspended (former state prisoners should instead seek to vacate their conviction or seek a certificate of rehabilitation or pardon).
If you need assistance with expunging your criminal record give us a call.