California Record Clearing

Start your journey to a clean record in the Golden State

California offers several options for clearing criminal records, including dismissals (commonly called "expungements"), sealing of arrest records, certificates of rehabilitation, and governor pardons. Our team will help you navigate California's specific requirements to give you the best chance at a fresh start.

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California The Golden State

Understanding California Record Clearing

California has multiple pathways to clear your criminal record, depending on your specific situation

Expungement (PC 1203.4)

In California, expungement is technically called "dismissal" under Penal Code 1203.4. While it doesn't completely erase your record, it:

  • Releases you from "all penalties and disabilities" of the conviction
  • Shows the case as "dismissed" on background checks
  • Can help with employment opportunities
  • Allows you to legally say you were not convicted (with some exceptions)

Record Sealing

California offers several sealing options:

  • Sealing of Arrest Records (PC 851.91): For arrests that didn't lead to convictions
  • Sealing After Diversion (PC 1000.4): For completed drug diversion programs
  • Juvenile Record Sealing: For cases handled in juvenile court
  • Sealing Conviction Records (PC 851.87): For certain convictions after completing probation

Certificate of Rehabilitation

This court-issued document:

  • Serves as an official recognition of your rehabilitation
  • Automatically becomes an application for a governor's pardon
  • Can restore certain rights lost due to conviction
  • Is available for more serious offenses that don't qualify for expungement

Governor's Pardon

The most complete form of relief:

  • Forgives the conviction and can restore civil rights
  • Very difficult to obtain, requiring significant evidence of rehabilitation
  • Typically requires a Certificate of Rehabilitation first
  • Can restore gun rights and eliminate sex offender registration for certain offenses

Are You Eligible for Expungement in California?

Take our quick assessment to determine if you may qualify for record clearing in California

Good news!

Based on your answers, you may be eligible for expungement or record sealing in California.

To get a detailed analysis and professional assistance with your case, consider our eligibility verification service.

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You may be eligible

Based on your answers, you may be eligible for some form of record clearing, but your case requires more detailed analysis.

California law has many nuances, and our legal experts can help determine your best path forward.

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You may face challenges

Based on your answers, standard expungement may be difficult, but other options might be available.

Even if standard expungement isn't available, a Certificate of Rehabilitation or other remedies might help your situation.

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The California Expungement Process

How we help you clear your record in California

1

Record Analysis

We obtain and analyze your complete criminal history to determine eligibility under California law.

2

Petition Preparation

Our team prepares all necessary legal documents specific to your county and case details.

3

Court Filing

We file your petition with the appropriate California court and serve all required parties.

4

Case Monitoring

We track your case through the court system and update you at every step until completion.

Important California Expungement Laws

Key legal provisions you should understand

Penal Code 1203.4

The primary expungement statute in California, PC 1203.4 allows for dismissal of convictions after successful completion of probation. After a case is "expunged" under this section:

  • The case shows as dismissed on most background checks
  • You can legally answer "no" to conviction questions on most job applications
  • The conviction cannot be used to deny or revoke professional licenses in most cases

Penal Code 851.91

This newer law allows for sealing of arrest records that did not lead to conviction. It applies to:

  • Arrests where no charges were filed
  • Cases that were dismissed
  • Acquittals (not guilty verdicts)
  • Cases where convictions were vacated or reversed on appeal

Proposition 64 Relief

After marijuana legalization, many marijuana-related convictions can be:

  • Reduced from felonies to misdemeanors
  • Reduced from misdemeanors to infractions
  • Dismissed and sealed entirely
  • Automatically processed in some counties

Limitations to Be Aware Of

California expungement has some important limitations:

  • The conviction still counts as a prior offense if you're charged with a new crime
  • Gun rights are not restored through standard expungement
  • Sex offender registration requirements usually remain in effect
  • Certain professional licensing boards can still consider expunged convictions

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about expungement in California

The timeline can vary significantly by county. Typically, the process takes 3-5 months from filing to court decision. Some busy counties like Los Angeles or San Diego may take longer, while rural counties might process cases more quickly. Factors that can affect timing include court backlogs, complexity of your case, and whether there's any opposition from the district attorney.

No, California expungement (PC 1203.4 dismissal) does not completely erase your record. Rather, it updates the record to show the case was dismissed. The record will still exist, but with a notation that the conviction was dismissed after completion of probation. The record remains visible to law enforcement, courts, and some government agencies. However, private employers generally cannot consider expunged convictions in hiring decisions.

You can still petition to expunge a California conviction even if you no longer live in California. The process is handled by the court where you were convicted, and typically does not require your physical presence. Our service is particularly helpful for out-of-state clients as we can handle all the California court filings and appearances on your behalf.

Yes, DUI convictions in California can generally be expunged under PC 1203.4 if you have completed probation and are not currently facing any new charges. However, there are important limitations to be aware of: an expunged DUI will still count as a prior offense if you get another DUI within 10 years, the DMV will still keep a record of the DUI, and it will still affect your car insurance rates.

Ready to Clear Your California Record?

Take the first step toward a fresh start with Expungify's California expungement services.

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