You have served your time and want a fresh start. Until recently it was nearly impossible to separate a convicted criminal from their record. The criminal justice system put people who came out of jail in the impossible position of being denied employment and the chance to become productive members of society. However, recent legislation has made it possible for individuals to have their convictions expunged.
Who Is Eligible?
You can get your criminal record expunged—both misdemeanors and felonies—if you have successfully completed probation or served time in state prison for the offense. However, if you were sent to state prison owing to a parole violation, you do not qualify for the program. Additionally, you cannot have your record expunged if you were convicted of serious sex crimes against children, including sodomy, lewd acts with a child, oral copulation with a child, or statutory rape.
What does expungement do?
If your criminal record has been expunged, a prospective employer will not be able to see it or use it against you when it comes to hiring. Getting your record expunged will also allow you to apply successfully for loans, credit cards, and residence in apartment complexes. You will be able to join professional associations and secure and maintain professional licenses without worrying that someone will see that you have done time and deny you a position or status that you are otherwise qualified for.
This can make it easier to begin your life anew. You will no longer have to carry the burden of your conviction around with you.
How A Lawyer Can Help
To get your record expunged, you should first contact a Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney. You will need to petition the court to get expungement under Penal Code 1203.42. It is important to have all of your paperwork filed properly. You also want to ensure that you meet the legal requirements before you appear before the judge.
If there is any doubt as to whether you qualify for the program, a Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense attorney will be able to clear it up before you file a formal petition. The judge may ask tough and difficult questions. You do not want to be caught unawares, which is why you should retain legal representation throughout the process.
The Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense lawyer you hire will know the letter of the law, and they will be able to use it to push your application through successfully.
If you have paid your debt to society, then you deserve a second chance. Getting your criminal record expunged is the first step toward getting a fresh start in life. A Rancho Cucamonga Criminal Defense Lawyer can provide you with the advice and expertise you need to for a successful application.