San Diego Expungement Lawyers

Helping People Erase Criminal Records

Many people commit criminal offenses when they are young. If they grow up to become law-abiding citizens, they should not have those offenses hanging over their heads, affecting their job prospects and chances for a loan.

An expungement can seal your criminal conviction record from public view, making potential employers, banks, and anyone else completely unaware of past convictions. The attorneys of San Diego Criminal Defense regularly help people expunge their records, allowing them to move on from past indiscretions.

Expungements and the Law

For all misdemeanor and most felony matters, an attorney can motion the court for an expungement (Penal Code Section 1203.4 et.seq.). In felony cases, it is often best for the attorney to motion the court to reduce the offense to a misdemeanor first, and then request an expungement.

Misdemeanors, minor felonies, and "wobblers" (see Court Process for definitions) can be expunged immediately after you complete your sentence and probation. Sex offenses and sex offender registration are not eligible for expungement.

Keep in mind, however, that even if you qualify, the courts do not have to grant an expungement. Your case for sealing your criminal records is helped tremendously by having many years without an arrest and proving that you are a stable, law-abiding citizen.

Contact Us

Call 619.894.8595 or email us through our contact page to speak with an San Diego criminal attorney about your chances of getting an expungement. The lawyers of our firm can meet with you in a free consultation during weekdays, weekends or evenings, and we have a 24-hour answering service ready to take your call.