Expungement can be a vital tool for those with a criminal record seeking a fresh start. This legal process allows individuals to clear certain offenses from their records, providing a second chance at a clean slate. Whether you’re aiming to improve employment opportunities, secure housing, or simply move forward without the weight of a past conviction, understanding how expungement works and its potential impact on your criminal record is crucial.
At Bernal Law, we can help you understand the intricacies of expungement, including by assisting you in exploring who qualifies, the steps involved, and the long-term benefits of having your record expunged. Please reach out to us to retain our support today.
What Is Expungement?
Expungement, within the realm of criminal law, means that a criminal conviction is destroyed and completely removed from a record. Qualifying for expungement can make many parts of a person’s life far easier, including by making it less difficult to get certain jobs. Some expungement may also improve a person’s quality of life.
Expungement is not simply record cleaning. In fact, expungement is different from sealing or pardoning. When someone is pardoned of a crime, the government “forgives” that individual. However, pardoning does not necessarily mean the conviction is cleared from the criminal record.
In some cases, expungement may result in sealing a criminal offense. However, this does not mean that sealing an offense from public search is exclusive to expungement.
Who Qualifies for Expungement?
In California, as well as many other jurisdictions, only certain individuals are eligible for expungement of criminal infractions from their criminal records. You are more likely to qualify for the process if you meet the following requirements:
- Completed probation
- Have not spent time in state prison, or would not have based on specific realignment changes made under Proposition 47
- Convictions were not for crimes that were serious, violent, or a sexual offense
If you need more information about qualifying, please reach out to us. Bernal Law can help you understand requirements, fight for expungement on your behalf, and initiate the expungement process.
What Crimes Qualify for Expungement in California?
California allows for expungement for certain infractions. The following are some of the crimes that are eligible for expungement in some circumstances:
- Marijuana possession
- Disturbing the peace
- Certain types of fraud
- Illegal purchase of alcohol by individuals who are underage
- Failure to appear
- Petty theft
- Trespassing in certain cases
Other criminal activity may qualify for expungement, in addition to these. However, determining whether you qualify for the process varies based on numerous factors surrounding your case. If you need assistance determining whether you can have an infraction expunged, we can help.
What Are the Benefits of Expungement?
There are several benefits of expungement, each of which can improve your quality of life and possibility for certain opportunities. After expungement, you may benefit from the following:
- Any expunged crimes do not have to be disclosed to employers
- Some crimes are sealed from public records
- Increased ease of finding employment
- Smoother background check process
- Legally answer you have not been convicted of a crime
- Better odds of finding stable housing
- More opportunities for education and certifications
- Boosted credibility as a witness in court
- Sense of redemption
If you want to have a crime expunged and improve your quality of life, we can help. Please reach out to Bernal Law to receive invaluable support with this significant legal task. We can help reduce stress and shorten the amount of time within this legal process.
Want to Get Convictions Expunged From Your Record? Contact Bernal Law for Outstanding Legal Support
At Bernal Law, we understand that navigating the expungement process can be complex and overwhelming. With nearly a decade of experience as a former prosecutor, Attorney Pedro Bernal knows the strategies used by the other side and how to effectively counter them. Our in-depth understanding of criminal law allows us to guide you through every step of the expungement process, ensuring that you meet all requirements and maximize your chances for a successful outcome.
We offer personalized support tailored to your unique situation. Whether you’re looking to clear your record for better job opportunities, secure housing, or simply achieve peace of mind, we’re here to help. Our bilingual services ensure that Spanish-speaking clients receive the same high level of assistance. Contact us today at (619) 736-9092 or via our contact form to take the first step toward a fresh start.
