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Expungements & Record Clearing

“Dismissed” doesn’t mean “invisible.” We make your record match your life.

What’s on Your Record — and What We Can Do About It

PC 1203.4 Expungement

If you completed probation, you can petition the court to withdraw your guilty plea and dismiss the case. Your conviction shows as “dismissed” instead of “convicted” on most background checks.

Who qualifies: Must have completed probation (or be eligible for early termination), have no pending charges, and not currently be serving a sentence.

PC 851.91 — Arrest Record Sealing

Even if your case was dismissed, the arrest still shows on your record. Sealing removes it entirely. Once sealed, you can legally answer “No” when asked if you’ve ever been arrested.

Who qualifies: Cases that were dismissed, acquitted, never filed, where the statute of limitations expired, or resolved through diversion.

Prop 47 — Felony Reduction

Proposition 47 reclassified certain felonies as misdemeanors. If you were convicted of a qualifying felony — petty theft, shoplifting, forgery under $950, simple drug possession — you can petition for retroactive reduction.

A felony on your record carries consequences a misdemeanor does not — firearms restrictions, jury service disqualification, and severe employment limitations.

Why Record Clearing Matters

EmploymentAn expungement changes what employers find on background checks after a conditional offer.
HousingIn SF’s rental market, a clean record can mean the difference between approval and rejection.
LicensingNursing, real estate, teaching — many boards recognize expungements as mitigating factors.
Peace of MindYou’ve moved on. Your record should reflect that.

The Process

1

Assessment

We review your criminal history and identify every conviction and arrest eligible for relief. Many people qualify for more relief than they realize.

2

Petition

We prepare and file the appropriate petitions — PC 1203.4, PC 851.91, Prop 47, or a combination.

3

Hearing & Resolution

Some petitions require a hearing; others are granted on the papers. We handle both and ensure the order reaches the DOJ to update your RAP sheet.

Not Sure What’s on Your Record?

We can help. During your free consultation, we’ll review your criminal history and tell you exactly what’s there and what can be done about it. Most petitions resolve within 4–8 weeks of filing.

Flat-Fee Record Clearing

The fee depends on complexity — single conviction vs. multiple matters — but we quote a specific number upfront during your consultation.

Schedule Free Consultation

(510) 545-6515 · ahmed@ashlegal.com