Expunging your criminal record in California involves filing a legal petition under California Penal Code §1203.4 asking the court to reopen your case, set aside the conviction, and dismiss it. If granted, you are no longer considered convicted under California law, and your criminal record is updated to reflect a dismissal rather than a conviction. In most situations, you can then truthfully state that you have not been convicted of a crime, and the expunged case typically will not appear on employer or landlord background checks—allowing you to move forward with confidence and focus on your future.

You should be eligible for a California expungement if your conviction was in state court rather than federal court and you have successfully completed probation or at least one year has passed since the conviction if probation was not imposed. You must have completed all terms of your sentence, including payment of fines or restitution and completion of any required programs or classes, and you cannot currently be facing new criminal charges, on probation, or serving a sentence in another case. Certain serious sex offenses involving minors are not eligible for expungement under Penal Code section 1203.4, including violations of Penal Code sections 286(c), 288, 288.5, 289(j), and 261.5(d).

You can still qualify for a California expungement even if you no longer live in the state. Your physical presence in California is not required. Attorney Scott Dicus can handle the entire expungement process on your behalf, including filing the petition and appearing in court if necessary, so long as your conviction occurred in California and you otherwise meet the eligibility requirements.

Expungement can give you peace of mind while delivering real, life-changing benefits. In most cases, expunged convictions cannot be used by private employers or landlords, allowing you to legally answer “no” on job and rental applications and avoid discrimination. Clearing your record can open the door to better employment, higher earning potential, professional licenses, student loans, and housing assistance. In some situations, reducing a felony “wobbler” to a misdemeanor may even restore certain rights. Most importantly, expungement helps you put the past behind you and move forward with confidence into a more positive future.

Once you sign up for our California expungement services, attorney Scott Dicus personally handles your case from start to finish. He gathers and reviews your court and personal case details, analyze your eligibility under current California law, and prepares a strong expungement petition. He files all required paperwork on time, pays all court and filing fees, and serves the prosecutor as required by law. You are not required to attend any hearings—we appear on your behalf. After the judge grants the expungement, we provide you with the signed court order and ensure background check databases are updated. Most services are backed by our 100% money-back guarantee, so you can move forward with confidence.