Los Angeles Expungement Lawyer Helps You Get a Fresh Start

Expunging a criminal record in California can provide a fresh start, removing barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, individuals with certain criminal convictions may petition the court to have their conviction dismissed. This process involves working with a Los Angeles expungement attorney to withdraw a guilty or no contest plea, enter a not guilty plea, and have the court set aside the conviction.

Eligibility for expungement includes:

• Successful completion of probation or early termination of probation.
• No current criminal charges.
• No time served in state prison (with some exceptions).

The benefits of expungement include improving job prospects, restoring professional licenses, and enhancing overall quality of life.

At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we focus on guiding clients through the expungement process. Since 2003, Attorney Arash Hashemi has provided expert legal counsel, thoroughly evaluating each client’s eligibility, preparing necessary documentation, and advocating for their rights in court. Our firm is dedicated to helping you clear your criminal record and move forward with confidence.

If you’re ready to expunge your criminal record in Los Angeles and take the next step toward a fresh start, let us handle the details so you can focus on your future. If you wish to speak with our legal team today, contact our office at (310) 448-1529. To schedule a 15-minute consultation with our expungement attorney, click here to book your appointment through our online system, and we’ll guide you through the expungement process from start to finish. During the consultation, we’ll review your case, discuss your options, and outline the steps to clear your criminal record.

Expungement Process in Los Angeles

Eligibility Assessment

The first step in the expungement process is determining whether you’re eligible to file for expungement under Penal Code 1203.4. Attorney Arash Hashemi will carefully review your case, examining key factors such as:

• Completion of Probation: You must have successfully completed probation or your sentence.
• No New Criminal Charges: You cannot currently be facing any new criminal charges or be on probation for another offense.
• Compliance with Court Orders: All court-ordered obligations, such as fines, restitution, and community service, must have been fulfilled.

If you violated your probation, a hearing may be required to argue for your expungement. Our firm will help you present the strongest possible case to the court.

Filing the Expungement Petition

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to file a formal petition with the court where your conviction occurred. This petition will include:

• A detailed explanation of why your conviction should be dismissed.
• Proof that you have complied with all probation terms or sentencing requirements.
• Evidence supporting your rehabilitation and good behavior since the conviction.

We will prepare and submit the necessary paperwork to ensure that all legal requirements are met, minimizing delays or errors that could result in denial.

Court Hearing

In some cases, the court may require a hearing to consider the expungement petition. If a hearing is needed, Attorney Arash Hashemi will represent you, arguing on your behalf to convince the judge that:

• You have demonstrated good conduct since the completion of your probation or sentence.
• Granting the expungement is in the best interest of justice and consistent with public welfare.

At the hearing, the prosecutor may argue against your expungement, especially if there was a probation violation or if the original offense was serious. Our firm will prepare a strong defense to counter these arguments and advocate for your expungement.

Court Decision

After the court reviews your petition and any arguments presented during the hearing, the judge will make a final decision:

• If Granted: Your conviction will be dismissed, and your record will reflect that the case has been cleared. This means you can legally say you have not been convicted of a crime in most situations, including job applications and housing requests.
• If Denied: You will be informed of the reasons for denial. Our firm can assess whether there are further legal actions that can be taken, such as refiling the petition or seeking other forms of post-conviction relief.

A written notice of the court’s decision will be sent to you, and Attorney Arash Hashemi will explain what the next steps are depending on the outcome.

The Benefits of Expungement

Expungement can give you a fresh start and open new doors that might have seemed closed for years. The following are some of the most important advantages:

Improved Employment Opportunities

One of the most significant benefits of expungement is the impact it can have on your job prospects. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record often limits your chances. However, after expungement, you can legally say you haven’t been convicted of a crime in most situations, which greatly improves your likelihood of landing a job. Whether you’re applying for a new position or looking for a promotion, expungement helps level the playing field.

Better Housing Options

Housing is another area where a criminal record can cause problems. Landlords often screen applicants and deny housing based on past convictions. With an expunged record, that past conviction no longer shows up in most background checks. You’ll find it easier to rent an apartment or secure a home without being unfairly judged for a previous mistake. It’s about getting a fair chance at stable, secure housing.

Restoring Your Name and Reputation

Beyond the practical benefits, expungement helps restore your reputation. A criminal conviction can hang over your head in social situations or damage your standing in the community. Expungement allows you to reclaim your dignity and move forward with a clean slate. It’s not just about what’s on paper—it’s about leaving the past behind and living your life without the weight of a conviction dragging you down.

Limits of Expungement

While expungement provides significant relief, there are a few important limitations to keep in mind:

Your Record Isn’t Completely Gone

Even after an expungement, your record isn’t completely erased. Law enforcement and some government agencies will still have access to your criminal history. For example, it may still show up in federal background checks for sensitive positions, like working for the government or applying for a firearm permit. It’s important to know that expungement doesn’t mean your record is entirely invisible.

Firearm Rights Are Not Automatically Restored

If your conviction resulted in losing your right to own or possess firearms, expungement won’t automatically restore that right. You’ll need to go through a separate legal process to have those rights reinstated. In many cases, this can be difficult, and not everyone is eligible to have their firearm rights restored after a conviction.

Not Every Conviction Can Be Expunged

Unfortunately, expungement isn’t available for all types of crimes. Serious or violent felonies, as well as certain offenses like those requiring sex offender registration, are typically ineligible. If your case falls into this category, Attorney Arash Hashemi can help review your options and suggest other legal avenues you may be able to explore.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi for Your Expungement?

Choosing the right attorney for your expungement case is essential. At The Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we bring extensive experience and a proven track record in handling various criminal cases. Since 2003, Attorney Arash Hashemi has provided expert legal counsel to individuals seeking to clear their criminal records. From simple petty theft to complex felonies, including murder, our attorney has managed a wide range of cases, ensuring that each client receives personalized and effective representation.

California’s expungement laws are complex and filled with exceptions that must be carefully considered. If an expungement petition is not correctly filed, it can lead to a denial, making it more challenging to get approved in future attempts. Our firm meticulously handles each expungement case, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and presenting a compelling case to the court. We understand that the court must be convinced that expunging your record is in the interest of justice and consistent with public welfare.

In addition to helping clients understand their eligibility for expungement, we gather all necessary documentation and prepare and file the petition on your behalf. Our goal is to present the strongest possible case to maximize your chances of a successful expungement. We are dedicated to guiding you through the expungement process and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us to take the first step toward a fresh start and a brighter future.