How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record?
April 10, 2025 | Nafiz M. Ahmed
A misdemeanor can remain on your criminal record in California indefinitely unless it is expunged. While misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies, they can still have long-term consequences. A conviction may impact your ability to secure employment, housing, or professional licenses. Even a seemingly minor offense can carry lasting implications for your future opportunities.
Understanding the Lasting Effects of a Misdemeanor on Your Record
In many cases, a misdemeanor remains on your criminal record indefinitely unless you take steps to have it expunged or sealed. This can present challenges when applying for housing, employment, or professional licenses, as background checks may reveal the conviction.
However, a misdemeanor on your record does not necessarily mean the end of future opportunities. Many employers, landlords, and licensing boards evaluate applicants on a case-by-case basis and may be willing to overlook a past conviction—particularly if you have demonstrated rehabilitation and maintained a clean record since completing your sentence.
Many landlords, realtors, employers, and licensing authorities see convictions of any crime as a risk, however. Do not hesitate to talk with a lawyer so that you are more familiar with how your misdemeanor will affect your life in the long term. It is likely you will need to navigate the rest of your life with this on your record.
Is Expungement or Record Sealing Right for You?
If you meet certain eligibility requirements, you may be able to pursue expungement or have your record sealed to reduce the long-term impact of a misdemeanor conviction.
Expungement effectively sets aside your conviction by changing your record to reflect a dismissal. In most cases, this means the offense will no longer affect your ability to seek employment, housing, or professional licensing. Under California’s Clean Slate Act (Assembly Bill No. 1076), eligibility typically requires that you have completed your sentence and have no new convictions or pending charges.
Alternatively, sealing your record makes the conviction inaccessible to the general public, though law enforcement and certain licensing agencies may still view it. While not as comprehensive as expungement, sealing your record can still significantly limit who can see your criminal history and may be easier to obtain.
Misdemeanors and Your Future
A criminal conviction, regardless of its nature, can present significant barriers to future opportunities. It can impact various aspects of life, including employment, housing, and other areas that require a background check. Even what may have seemed like a minor offense at the time can have long-lasting consequences.
Landlords commonly conduct background checks to assess whether prospective tenants pose a risk. While certain local laws may protect individuals with misdemeanor convictions from discrimination, it is important to consult with an attorney if you believe such laws should protect you and were nonetheless denied housing due to a misdemeanor.
Although the Second Amendment affords gun ownership rights to all Americans, a misdemeanor conviction on your record—especially one involving violence or firearms—could result in the loss of this right. Additionally, individuals with a criminal record may face disqualification from obtaining professional licenses required to work in fields such as law, healthcare, or other specialized industries.
Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer For Help
While a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting consequences, it is important to understand that it does not have to define your future. With the possibility of expungement or record sealing, you may be able to mitigate some of the negative effects a misdemeanor may have on your opportunities. However, navigating the legal process can be complex, and understanding your rights and options is crucial. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney can help you determine the best course of action, protect your rights, and give you a clearer path forward.
Contact our Criminal Defense Law Firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Today For Help
For more information please contact our criminal defense law firm of Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys at the nearest location for a free consultation.
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – San Jose Office
1625 The Alameda, Suite 405, San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 217-8818
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys – Redwood City Office
600 Allerton St Suite 201G, Redwood City, CA 94063
(650) 299-0500