EXPUNGEMENTS: CLEARING YOUR RECORD
Every single day, individuals are applying for jobs and are scared of what potential employers will find. Misdemeanor or felony convictions could have a negative impact on an employer’s decision to hire. Fortunately, there are legal ways to expunge your criminal record.
An expungement is the legal process by which the plea of guilty or no contest is withdrawn and the case is dismissed. Pursuant to California Penal Code Section 1203.4, the individual is released from all “penalties and disabilities” arising out of the conviction. This means that the individual does not need to disclose the misdemeanor on any employment application. Further, employers cannot discriminate on the basis of a misdemeanor after there has been an expungement.
Learn about your specific case by contacting me online or by calling 310-773-3311. Your consultation is free.
Are You Eligible For Expungement?
To be eligible for an expungement, an individual must have completed probation. Probation may require community service, alcohol education classes, fines and assessments, and time, but once it is completed, the individual can seek expungement. In some cases, the court may grant an expungement despite the fact that probation has not ended. Do not hesitate to contact us about discussing the probation completion requirement.
Further, a felony conviction may also be expunged in some cases. For a felony conviction to qualify for an expungement, it must have been a “wobbler” crime. A “wobbler” is a crime that could have been charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. If the felony conviction is a “wobbler,” the individual may request that the court reduce it to a misdemeanor. This allows the individual to petition for an expungement. It is important to note that sex crimes cannot be reduced to a misdemeanor.
Hiring an attorney to take care of your expungement saves you money and time and gives you peace of mind. We will complete all of the legal paperwork, do all of the research and make all court appearances on your behalf.
I am Chris W. Blaylock, an attorney who can help you through the expungement process. As an aggressive criminal defense lawyer in Santa Monica and Los Angeles, I will work diligently to expunge your conviction. Contact my office to schedule a free consultation.