Having a crime on your record—especially a felony—can impact many aspects of your life. Clearing your record through the process of expungement can offer many people a fresh start, but expungement is only available if the conviction meets specific criteria. Is it possible to expunge a felony from your criminal record in California?
When is expungement an option for felony convictions?
While some states entirely exclude felonies from the expungement process, California allows felony expungement under some specific circumstances. According to California Penal Code 1203.425, an expungement is an option for felony charges if you did not spend time in state prison as a result of the crime. You must also have completed your probation.
Even if you meet this requirement, expungement is not available for some crimes in the state of California, including certain sex crimes. This further limits the number of cases that are eligible for expungement.
Is expungement an option for you?
While it is not an option in every case, expungement can provide many benefits for those who qualify. For example, expungement will allow them to answer that they have not been convicted of a felony in many job applications. It can also lay the foundation for obtaining a pardon.
If you wonder whether expungement is the right way to protect your future opportunities, consider speaking to an experienced attorney. They can help you explore the options available to you and determine whether clearing your record can clear the way for a brighter future.
