There’s been a lot of buzz recently about expungement, and we’ve been getting plenty of questions about it here at the Chambers Law Firm, which is headed up by Southern California’s top criminal defense lawyer, Dan Chambers.
Here at the Chambers Law Firm, we’re always happy to answer your legal questions, and if you’d like to specifically discuss your case, feel free to make a free initial appointment anytime by calling 714-760-4088, emailing dchambers@clfca.com, or by sending us a message online by clicking CONTACT at the top right of this page.
Now let’s get down to business and answer this burning question. First, let’s start with a helpful basic definition, from the Merriam Webster dictionary, of expunge:
Expunge: to remove something completely; to strike out, obliterate, or mark for deletion; to efface completely; destroy; to eliminate (as a memory) from one’s consciousness
Wouldn’t it be wild if you could do all of these things to your criminal record? In a perfect world, that would be possible, but … you’re in California.
Chin up, though! While you can’t wipe your California criminal record clean, you can do something about it, according to California Penal Code Section 1203.4. This code allows former defendants to petition the court to dismiss the charges listed on your public file so that you’ll be able to apply for most jobs. In some instances, you may also be able to apply to have a felony charge changed to a misdemeanor.
One important condition of petitioning the court for dismissal is that if you have been sentenced to state prison time or sentenced under the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, you may not apply under Penal Code Section 1203.4.
However, those who have served time in state prison may apply to receive Certificates of Rehabilitation and Pardon from the governor of California.
Got questions?
If you have any questions about the expungement process in California, or if you want to get started right away, contact Southern California’s most successful criminal defense attorney, Dan Chambers of the Chambers Law Firm.
He’ll be glad to speak with you specifically about your case, weigh all the options, and talk with you straight about the best course of action. If you want an attorney who will listen to you, guide you in the exact right direction, and deliver excellent results, call no one but Dan Chambers at 714-760-4088. Or reach him via email at dchambers@clfca.com, or send him a message online by clicking CONTACT at the top right of this page.
Don’t delay—get your record fixed today, and breathe easier tomorrow.
