Norwalk Expungements Lawyer

Norwalk Expungements Attorney

The stigma of having a criminal history can leave a lasting, negative impact on your future, even after you have completed your sentence. Whether you were found guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony, expungement may be an option that allows you to regain a cleaner slate. Speaking with a Norwalk expungements lawyer can help clarify whether or not your record is eligible for expungement in California.

At Shield Law, APC, our work does not end once a trial is over. We are committed to supporting our clients and their families as long as they are affected by the criminal justice system. Allow us to assist you in successfully requesting a record expungement so you can begin a new stage in your life.

How to Request an Expungement in Norwalk, CA

Expungement is a legal process that allows a person with a criminal record to request that their record be sealed. While obtaining an expungement does not completely erase a criminal record, it does release you from the duty of having to disclose this aspect of your past.

Data from 2019 revealed that around 1 in 8 Golden State residents with a criminal record (around 12.5%) may be eligible to have their record expunged. With the passage of the California Clean Slate Act (SB731) in 2022, which allowed for automatic expungement of certain older arrests and convictions, this number is likely to have increased.

Those who can obtain expungement in California benefit from having:

• Improved employment opportunities
• Higher chances of securing housing
• Increased access to professional licensure opportunities

Not having to answer “Yes” to a question about a criminal record on a job or apartment application helps lessen the stigma, giving you more confidence as you work on rebuilding your life.

The privilege of an expungement is not available to all persons with a criminal record, and it is important to consult a knowledgeable Norwalk criminal defense attorney to know whether you are eligible to have your criminal record sealed.

Generally, those who have been convicted of a misdemeanor or of specific non-violent felonies may be eligible to have their record expunged as long as they have completed their sentence and do not have pending criminal charges for another case. Expungement is also available to persons who had their charges dropped or received an acquittal in their criminal case.

In late 2021, the Los Angeles County District Attorney announced that nearly 60,000 cannabis convictions would be dismissed as part of the state’s broader move towards more lenient policies related to certain drug offenses.

It may be possible to secure expungement of a criminal record for a more serious crime from a judge, depending on the specifics of the case.

The optimal time to file a petition for expungement in California is now, so you can ensure that your past does not continue imposing limits on your life.

How a Knowledgeable Norwalk Expungements Lawyer Can Assist You

Despite these policy changes in California regarding record expungement, it is important that you not leave your criminal record sealing to chance. Even if you think your record may be eligible for automatic expungement under the new law, it is recommended that you consult with a knowledgeable attorney to make sure that this applies in your specific case and that administrative mistakes do not cause delays in this process.

When you work with an expungement attorney, you can benefit from:

• Legal guidance tailored to your specific case
• Assistance with accurately filing an expungement petition
• Representation in court if you need to go before a judge
• Compassionate support throughout this oftentimes tedious process

When you work with Shield Law, APC, you are served by someone who approaches your case with attention and care. We make sure that your expungement petition is clear of mistakes that could delay your expungement request approval or lead to a denial.

FAQs

Talk to Our Norwalk Expungement Lawyer to Discuss Your Options

Your past does not define you, and potential employers or landlords should not be given the chance to hold your criminal record against you if you have completed your sentence requirements and are working on rebuilding your life.

Consult an attorney at Shield Law, APC, to discuss record expungement for you or a loved one. We serve Norwalk residents and surrounding communities in Los Angeles County. Contact us today.