Expungements Attorney In Southern California
Fresh Start: How Shield Law, APC Can Help You Expunge Your Criminal Record
A criminal record should not define the rest of your life or dictate the opportunities available to you. If you find yourself being held back from securing a job, purchasing a home, or forming meaningful personal relationships due to a past conviction, it’s important to know that you may be eligible for an expungement. This legal process can provide you with the chance to clear your record and begin anew.
A skilled La Mirada expungements lawyer can be instrumental in helping you advocate for a fresh start, allowing you to move forward without the heavy burden of your past weighing you down.
At Shield Law, APC, our empathetic legal team firmly believes that everyone deserves a second chance and the opportunity for a brighter future. Expungement is not just a legal formality; it is a path toward regaining your dignity and improving your life.
Whether you have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor or a felony, an experienced attorney from our dedicated team can guide you through the complex legal process of having your record expunged.
We are committed to helping you navigate this challenging terrain so you can unlock new opportunities and achieve the life you envision for yourself, free from the shadows of the past.
Call Shield Law, APC at 323-310-4636 to schedule a free 30 minute consultation with a lawyer today.
Understanding Expungement in California
The expungement legal process allows certain convictions to be dismissed from an individual’s criminal record under the California Penal Code. After a conviction has been expunged, individuals are no longer required to disclose it on most legal forms, such as rental agreements and job applications. Although the criminal record is still there, it won’t show up in most background checks, allowing you to open new doors you couldn’t access before.
You may be eligible for expungement in California if you meet the following requirements:
- You successfully completed your probation or had your probation terminated early.
- You did not go to state prison following your conviction, although some exceptions could apply.
- You do not have any pending criminal charges or new convictions.
- It is possible for some felony convictions to be expunged; however, they need to first be reduced to a misdemeanor. If your conviction qualifies for a misdemeanor, an attorney from our team can petition the court to get your charges reduced and then subsequently expunged.
Even if you were forced to serve time in county jail under California’s realignment program, you could still be eligible to get your record expunged. An experienced
La Mirada expungement lawyer from our team can scrutinize your case details to determine whether you qualify.
Understanding the Benefits of Expungement
By expunging your record, you can reap a myriad of benefits that can change your life forever, including access to professional opportunities. Furthermore, when searching for a home, you will likely have more access, as landlords tend to approve applicants who do not appear to have a criminal record. You may also benefit from access to certain professional licenses, as some licensing boards only allow applicants with a clear record to pursue these opportunities.
Most importantly, our compassionate attorneys have helped clients gain peace of mind after having their records expunged. They can move forward with their lives without dragging around the stigma of their past.
A dedicated La Mirada expungements lawyer from Shield Law, APC, is eager to help you navigate the complex process of getting your records expunged. We want to help you reap the benefits of expungement and can gather and present crucial evidence that shows your eligibility while shedding light on your case. Together, we can help you move forward with your life.
FAQS
Who Qualifies For An Expungement In California?
You may qualify for an expungement in California if you have already completed your probation period or have been granted early termination, did not serve any time in state prison, are not currently on probation, are not facing criminal charges, and are not serving another sentence. Furthermore, if you served time in state prison but would have been eligible for county jail under Proposition 47, you may be eligible for expungement. Ask your attorney about your options and eligibility.
What Types Of Convictions Can Be Expunged?
The types of convictions that may be eligible for expungements include the majority of misdemeanors and some felonies. Examples include driving under the influence, drug possession crimes, property crimes and theft, assault and battery crimes, and certain domestic violence crimes. Some serious felonies, such as violent offenses or sex crimes involving minors, may not meet the criteria for eligibility.
What Are The Benefits Of An Expungement?
The benefits of an expungement include increased ability to access job opportunities, more housing opportunities, and the restoration of professional licensing – depending on your industry. Having a criminal record expunged can significantly improve your quality of life, giving you peace of mind that your criminal history is no longer visible on public records. An experienced attorney can help you understand how an expungement could benefit you specifically.
How Long Does The Expungement Process Take?
The amount of time the expungement process may take is dependent on various factors, including your case complexity, the backlog at the courts, and whether the prosecutor is objecting to your expungement process. An attorney can help you understand the specific time frame and required steps associated with the expungement process, taking you through each phase from start to finish.
Do I Need A Lawyer To File For Expungement?
While it is not required by law to hire a legal representative to file for expungement, it is highly recommended to work with an experienced attorney, as they can help you increase your chances of a positive case outcome. A La Mirada expungement lawyer can help ensure all of your paperwork is accurately filed, fight for your eligibility in front of relevant stakeholders in court, and deal with any prosecutor obstacles barring you from approval.
Facing Criminal Charges?
At Shield Law, APC, we understand that legal issues can arise at any hour, and time is often critical. Call us 24/7 at 323-310-4636 to speak with a criminal defense attorney who will listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your options.
Don’t wait—reach out now to protect your rights and your future.
