Expungement

At one time or another, we all do things we are ashamed of or embarrassed by. However, when that mistake results in a criminal record, it can destroy our hopes and dreams for a better future for both ourselves and our family.In today’s challenging economy, just one criminal conviction can make it hard to find employment or advance in our career. The burden of a criminal conviction weighs you down and robs you of your dignity and self-respect. Let the Law Offices of Tom R. Medrano help you restore your good name and reputation.

The Expungement Process

What Is An Expungement?

An expungement is a court process where a misdemeanor or felony conviction (of guilty or no contest plea) is set aside and your case is dismissed. The expungement process relieves you of certain penalties that result from a criminal record.

Who Is Eligible?

You are eligible to have your criminal conviction expunged if:

• You have successfully completed probation or been discharged from probation before the end of your probationary period.
• If your probation has not expired, you will have to petition the court for early termination of your probation.
• If you were not granted probation and one year has passed since you were sentenced by the court.
• You are not now serving a sentence nor on probation for any other offense.
• You have not been charged with a new offense that is still pending in court.

If you meet the above conditions, you may petition the court to withdraw your plea of guilty, set aside your conviction and dismiss the charge(s) against you.

What cases you cannot expunge?

Infractions convictions and felony convictions resulting in state prison sentence. In addition, you cannot expunge a federal conviction.

What Are The Benefits of Expungement?

An expungement of your criminal record allows you the following benefits:

• If you are a non-citizen, dismissing your conviction may prevent you from being deported from the United States.
• Almost in every case, if you apply for a government or private sector job, you may state on the employment application that you have never been convicted of a crime.