California Criminal Record Sealing and Expungement

The Lasting Impact of a Criminal Record

Many people are not aware of the power that one mistake can have over the rest of their lives. A single arrest or conviction, even if it happened years or decades earlier, can make it difficult to find employment, rent an apartment, acquire a bank loan, attend college or participate in any number of other ordinary activities and pursuits. Fortunately, California law makes it possible for people to have their criminal records sealed or expunged. For most purposes, having a California criminal record cleaned can mean being able to fulfill lifelong dreams such as working in a career that requires a professional license or owning a home.

Why You Need a Los Angeles Expungement Attorney

Both sealing and expungement can only be achieved after a relatively complex legal process. That is why it is necessary to rely upon the services of a Los Angeles expungement attorney. The judge has sole and ultimate discretion when it comes to allowing a record sealing or expungement to move forward. Accordingly, it is advisable to make the best possible presentation to the court. This may mean making complex legal arguments and demonstrating certain factors that might persuade the judge to agree that sealing or expungement is the correct decision. Few people could do this on their own, making a Los Angeles expungement lawyer an indispensable ally.

What Does It Mean to Seal a Criminal Record in California?

Arrests Without Charges Can Still Appear on Background Checks

It’s not unusual for people to forget that one wild night in college when they got arrested. No charges were filed so an assumption is made that the arrest won’t generate a criminal record. However, most people don’t know that an arrest that did not result in charges being filed can show up on a background check. That’s how one crazy night in college can end up destroying your hopes of working for a certain employer.

DEFENSE TEAM SPOTLIGHT

Todd Spodek

Lead Attorney & Founder

Featured on Netflix's "Inventing Anna," Todd Spodek brings decades of high-stakes criminal defense experience. His aggressive approach has secured dismissals and acquittals in cases others deemed unwinnable.

NY Bar Admitted Multi-State Licensed Federal Courts

Meet the Full Team

Legal Scenario: What Would You Do?

Scenario

You have an old conviction affecting your job prospects.

Can it be expunged?

Attorney's Answer

Many NJ convictions are expungable after waiting periods. Expungement legally allows you to deny the arrest or conviction. The process requires filing a petition with the court and demonstrating rehabilitation.

This is general information only. Contact us for advice specific to your situation.

How Record Sealing Works