What Is Expungement, and How Does It Work?

Expungement, under California Penal Code 1203.4 PC, allows you to withdraw a guilty or no contest plea and have the case dismissed. If granted, the conviction will no longer appear as a conviction on most background checks, providing significant benefits, including:

• Employers typically cannot see the conviction in most background screenings.
• You can legally state on job applications that you have not been convicted of a crime.
• You may regain professional and educational opportunities that were previously restricted due to your record.

However, expungement does not completely erase the record. Law enforcement and certain government agencies will still have access to it, but for most practical purposes, it eliminates the stigma of a conviction and allows you to move forward with a clean slate.

Can a Petty Theft Conviction Be Expunged in California?

Yes, in most cases, a petty theft conviction can be expunged if you meet the necessary requirements. In California, petty theft is typically charged under one of the following laws:

• Penal Code 484(a) PC – Covers petty theft offenses involving stolen property valued at $950 or less.
• Penal Code 490.2 PC – Established under Proposition 47, which reclassified certain theft-related offenses from felonies to misdemeanors.

If you meet the eligibility criteria (see below), you may be able to clear your record through expungement, removing many of the long-term consequences of a conviction.

Who Qualifies for a Petty Theft Expungement?

To be eligible for expungement of a petty theft conviction in California, you must meet the following criteria:

• Completed all sentencing requirements, including probation, community service, and fines.
• Did not serve time in state prison (a county jail sentence does not disqualify you).
• Are not currently facing new criminal charges or on probation for another offense.
• Successfully completed probation (or, if still on probation, an attorney can petition for early termination).

If you meet these requirements, you are likely eligible for expungement, and Attorney Hashemi can assist you in filing the petition efficiently to clear your record.

What If I Violated My Probation? Can I Still Get an Expungement?

Even if you violated probation, you may still be eligible for an expungement. The court will review several factors before making a decision, including:

• The severity of the violation – A minor infraction, such as missing a court date, may not weigh as heavily against you as committing a new crime.
• Your overall behavior during probation – If you complied with most of the terms and showed rehabilitation, the court may still consider your petition.
• Whether granting expungement serves justice – If expunging your record benefits your future and aligns with the intent of the law, the judge may grant it.

If your probation violation was minor but you otherwise followed the requirements, our criminal defense attorney can present strong arguments for expungement based on good conduct and rehabilitation.

How Long Does It Take to Expunge a Petty Theft Charge?

The expungement process for a petty theft conviction in California generally takes three to six months, though the timeline can vary based on several factors:

• Court backlog – Some courts process expungement petitions faster than others, depending on their caseload.
• Complexity of the case – Cases with multiple convictions or probation violations may require additional review.
• Prosecutor’s response – If the prosecution objects to the expungement, a court hearing may be necessary, which can extend the process.

At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we work to streamline the expungement process, ensuring that all paperwork is filed correctly and that your petition is presented in the strongest possible way to maximize your chances of success

What Are the Benefits of Expunging a Petty Theft Charge?

Clearing a petty theft conviction from your record can significantly improve your future. Many employers, landlords, and licensing agencies conduct background checks, and even a minor theft conviction can create unnecessary obstacles.

One of the biggest advantages of expungement is that most private employers cannot hold an expunged conviction against you, making it easier to secure a job. Housing applications may also become easier to navigate since landlords are less likely to reject applicants based on past offenses. Additionally, certain professional licenses that were previously out of reach may become available once your record is cleared.

Beyond career and housing benefits, expunging a conviction provides peace of mind. A clean record allows you to move forward without the stigma of a criminal past, restoring confidence in both personal and professional settings.

Get Your Petty Theft Charge Expunged – Contact a Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Today

Clearing a petty theft conviction from your record can open new opportunities for employment, housing, and professional licensing. However, the expungement process in California can be complex, and even a small mistake on your petition can result in unnecessary delays or a denial. That’s why having an experienced attorney on your side is crucial.

With over 20 years of experience, Attorney Hashemi has successfully helped clients navigate the expungement process, ensuring all paperwork is properly filed and presenting strong arguments in court when necessary. Whether your case requires overcoming objections from the prosecution, addressing probation violations, or filing for early termination of probation, we will fight to clear your record and give you a fresh start.

We offer a free consultation to discuss your eligibility, answer your questions, and outline the best strategy for your expungement case. Don’t let a past conviction hold you back—contact us today and take the first step toward a clean record.

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Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not intended to predict outcomes, as individual circumstances vary and laws may change over time. Those seeking legal advice should consult with a qualified attorney to understand how current laws apply to their specific situation. For detailed legal guidance on the topics discussed, please contact our law firm directly.