A Clean Slate For Moreno Valley Residents
If you are having a hard time because of a criminal conviction on your record from years ago, you have come to the right place. Our attorneys can help expunge that conviction from your record so that it doesn’t show up on standard background checks.
An expungement is the process of filing a petition with the court to remove a conviction from your criminal record. The petition will be assigned to a California judge, who will assess your case and determine if you are worthy of expungement. This judge might require a hearing in which you will be required to present your case and explain why you should be allowed the expungement.
Keep in mind that the prosecuting attorney of the original case will also be notified of your motion to expunge the conviction. They can choose to attend the hearing and raise objections as to why you shouldn’t be allowed expungement. This is why it is important to have an experienced attorney on your time who can help you win the hearing and ensure a successful expungement.
Expungement Requirements
There are a few requirements that should be met to be eligible for an expungement in Moreno Valley. These requirements include:
- You were charged and convicted in a California state court
- You finished all sentencing requirements, including paying all fines and restitution, attending ordered classes, and performing community service
- You completed the probationary period
If you haven’t completed the probationary period, we can help you file for an Early Termination of Probation, which will shorten your termination period. Expunging a criminal record is much easier when you served time in county jail compared to state prison. If you served time in state prison, it can be difficult to motion for an expungement successfully. However, if the judge dismisses the expungement, we can help you file for a Certificate of Rehabilitation.
Free Background Checks
It can be beneficial to understand what is known about you through databases of criminal records. We offer free background checks that will cover anything from California criminal records to convictions in other states. If there is anything negative listed on the background check, we will find it.
The Process
Step 1: Preparation
The first step is to hire an attorney who will help you prepare for the expungement. They will assess your situation and develop a strong case for you.
Step 2: Filing
The next step is to file a motion of expungement with a California state court. Our attorneys will help you with all of the documentation that goes into filing for an expungement.
Step 3: Present
A judge will be assigned to your case and will assess your petition for expungement. With a strong enough case, they will usually go ahead and expunge the conviction. However, sometimes, they will move for a hearing. In this case, you will be required to present your case and argue why your case should be expunged.
Step 4: Expunge
If the judge decides to expunge your case, your conviction will be dismissed and cleared from all standard background checks. If the expungement is thrown out, we will assess other options that will minimize the consequences of the conviction on your record.
Juvenile Records
Most people have problems with their juvenile records because, for some reason, there is a belief that juvenile records automatically seal when you turn 18. In reality, your juvenile is neither sealed nor swept clean. Instead, it becomes a part of your adult criminal record unless you take action to seal or expunge it.
Expungement Limitations
There are a few limitations when it comes to expungements. A successful expungement will not restore firearm rights or a suspended driver’s license. To reinstate your driver’s license, you will typically have to complete all mandated suspensions, programs, and/or prison sentences. The state of California is strict on firearm regulations, which means there usually isn’t a lot that can be done about firearm regulations.
Benefits of Expungement
A successful expungement does come with multiple benefits that make it well worth the time to file with a Riverside County court. An expungement will increase your chances of employment, housing, loan approvals, professional licensing, and educational opportunities.
We Can Help
Give us a call today, and we will run a free California criminal records check to see if anything shows up. If it does, do not worry. Our attorneys can help you expunge any convictions so that future employers, landlords, and lenders cannot see them on your background check. We are experienced in handling these matters and getting our clients a second chance. Give us a call at (951) 400-4299 or take our free expungement assessment to determine if you are eligible today.