Expungements

An expungement releases you from the negative consequences of a conviction.

The California laws on expungements are set forth in Penal Code 1203.4 PC. Expungements are also referred to as “dismissals.”

If you are convicted of a crime, you are entitled to an expungement if you:

successfully complete probation, or
complete a jail term (whichever is relevant).

If you violate a probation term, you could still get the offense expunged. This, though, would be in the judge’s discretion.

If your conviction is expunged, then it does not need to be disclosed to potential employers. This holds true even if a conditional offer of employment is made.

Expungements are available for both:

California misdemeanors, and
felony offenses.