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A criminal record can significantly impact your life, from employment opportunities to housing applications and even more. However, if you have a past conviction in Van Nuys, you may be eligible to clear your criminal record through an expungement.
Not all criminal cases qualify for expungement. An experienced attorney from The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling can explain the eligibility criteria and work to restore your good name. Contact us today for a free consultation with a Van Nuys expungement lawyer.
Why You Need an Expungement Lawyer in Van Nuys
California expungement laws can be challenging to understand. When you work with The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling, you get a criminal defense attorney with over 20 years of experience and an impressive track record of success. You can count on Justin Sterling to accurately interpret the law, file the expungement petition on time, and maximize your chances of successfully clearing your record.
What Is Expungement?
In California, an expungement is a form of post-conviction relief where the court hides the criminal convictions of individuals who completed their sentences and haven’t reoffended. In California, an expungement doesn’t remove a conviction from your record but seals it so it’s not visible on most background checks.
What Offenses Are Eligible for Expungement in California?
Your eligibility for expungement depends on the crime you were convicted of, if you have met the conditions of your probation, and whether you have any other pending criminal charges. You must also complete a waiting period before attempting to seal your records.
In general, you can clear your record of misdemeanor and felony convictions that did not result in a state prison sentence, except for violent crimes and sex crimes. Felonies classified as “wobbler offenses” (which could be charged as misdemeanors or felonies) may be reduced to misdemeanors before expungement.
If your charges were dismissed, you can obtain an automatic expungement in Van Nuys. An experienced attorney can assess your situation and determine the correct timeline for your case.
How Do I Obtain an Expungement?
The expungement process involves several steps, including:
- Consulting a Van Nuys expungement attorney to verify your eligibility and assist with the expungement petition
- Filing all forms with the appropriate court and paying any required fees
- Preparing for the expungement hearing, which your attorney may be able to attend on your behalf
- Waiting for the judge to grant or deny the petition
- Appealing if necessary
Benefits of Expungement
The benefits of expungement can be life-changing. Since expungements hide your record from most background checks, it can be easier for you to pursue higher education, get a job, acquire housing, and receive financial aid. You can even legally answer that you do not have a criminal record when asked during a job interview.
Contact Us for Help with Your Van Nuys Expungement Case
If you’re ready to take the next step toward clearing your criminal record, contact The Law Offices of Justin E. Sterling for a free consultation with a trusted Van Nuys expungement attorney.
