California Expungements and Record ClearanceCalifornia Penal Code § 1203.4
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What Is an Expungement in California?
Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, an expungement allows you to withdraw your guilty or no contest plea, enter a not guilty plea, and have your conviction dismissed — even after completing probation. While an expungement does not completely seal your record, it removes the conviction from most background checks and allows you to honestly state on most private job applications that you have not been convicted of that offense.
Who Qualifies?
You may qualify if you successfully completed probation, did not serve time in California state prison for the conviction, and are not currently facing or serving another sentence. Both misdemeanor and many felony convictions are eligible, though certain serious offenses — particularly sex crimes requiring registration — may not qualify.
Felony Reduction Under PC 17(b)
If your felony conviction was for a wobbler offense, you may be able to have it reduced to a misdemeanor under Penal Code § 17(b) before pursuing expungement. Our attorneys evaluate your eligibility and pursue reduction in conjunction with expungement for maximum benefit.
Benefits of Expungement
An expungement can open doors that a criminal record closes — employment opportunities, professional licenses, housing applications, and more. California law requires employers and licensing boards to treat expunged convictions favorably.
Start Your Fresh Start Today
Call Virtuoso Law at (833) 666-5245 for a free consultation. We handle the entire expungement process including court appearances on your behalf. Available 24/7.
An expungement under PC 1203.4 allows you to legally answer 'no' to most employment questions asking about prior convictions. It can restore opportunities that a conviction closed.