An expungement allows you to reopen your criminal case, set aside the conviction and dismiss the case. As a result, your criminal record will no longer show the conviction. However the expungement will continue to appear on your record. It is important to note that the expungement does not clear from your record the fact that you were arrested or that charges were filed.
Following a successful expungement, if a potential employer asks if you have ever been convicted you can honestly answer “no”. Keep in mind, though, that background checks typically go back 10 years, and employers can see that you had a conviction dismissed. Answering "No" may look dishonest. A better response may be "Yes, expungement granted."
If you are applying for a government job, a job that requires security clearance, or a job that requires a government-issued license, certificate or permit, the conviction will likely be discovered during the standard background check. You should disclose the conviction and expungement in these situations.
If you are applying for a government-issued license, certificate, or permit, you must disclose your conviction and expungement.
The conviction can still be used against you in future criminal proceedings and by the DMV for purposes of suspending or restricting your license. A successful expungement does not relieve you of any prohibition on the ownership or possession of firearms resulting from the conviction.
Where Can I Get Help with an Expungement
You may be eligible for free assistance through Inland Empire Latino Lawyers Association.
Clinics are held the first Friday of the month from 10:00 am to 11:30 am at the Riverside Self-Help Center, located at 3535 10th Street, 2nd Floor, Riverside, 92501.
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