A criminal record can affect every part of your life. Even if you’ve already completed your sentence in Redwood City, CA, past convictions might still hold you back. In California, you may have the option to clean your record through a process called “expungement.” By doing so, you could apply for jobs, housing, and professional licenses without worrying that a background check will automatically work against you.
At Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand how stressful it can be to have a criminal record. Call (650) 299-0500 or contact our Redwood City expungement lawyers today for a free consultation.
How Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help With Your Expungement in Redwood City, California
Trying to navigate California’s expungement laws on your own can be confusing. One small mistake on the paperwork or missing a filing deadline might set you back or even cause the judge to deny your request.
Working with a knowledgeable law firm like Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys ensures you have a strong advocate on your side. With 30 years of combined experience and thousands of successful cases—including over 50 won at trial—we know what it takes to guide clients through the expungement process.
Our Redwood City criminal defense lawyers can:
- Check your eligibility: Not all crimes can be expunged, and some convictions have special requirements. We’ll look at your record to see if you qualify.
- File petitions correctly: We’ll prepare and submit the legal forms with accurate details. Mistakes can delay your expungement or lead to rejection.
- Attend court hearings: If there’s a hearing on your case, our lawyers will speak on your behalf, explain your circumstances, and present solid reasons why the judge should grant your request.
Having a lawyer who understands local rules and procedures can increase your chances of success. Our Redwood City expungement attorneys have handled thousands of cases and won dozens of trials, so we’re ready to tackle whatever challenges arise during your expungement process.
What Is Expungement in California?
Expungement is a legal process that allows you to withdraw a guilty or no-contest plea and have your case dismissed or, in some cases, have a guilty verdict set aside. When an expungement is granted, the court updates your record to show that the case has been dismissed. This means that in most instances, you don’t have to disclose the conviction to employers or landlords.
However, it’s important to note that expungement does not necessarily erase your record entirely. Law enforcement and some government agencies can potentially still see the conviction. But for everyday purposes—like job applications—an expungement can make a big difference in your life.
Who Qualifies for Expungement in California?
California law has rules about who can—and cannot—seek an expungement.
In general, you may qualify if:
- You were convicted of a misdemeanor or certain felonies
- You completed all terms of probation, including paying fines and restitution
- You have no pending criminal charges
Even if you meet these conditions, there may be additional factors that affect whether the judge will grant your petition. If your offense involved serious violence or certain sex crimes, expungement may not be available.
Note as well that with the passage of Senate Bill No. 731, many records (those involving most misdemeanor and non-violent felony offenses) will now be automatically sealed as well, assuming the relevant requirements are met.
An experienced expungement lawyer in Redwood City can look at your specific situation to see how the law applies to your particular circumstances.
Benefits of an Expungement in Redwood City, CA
Expungement can offer a fresh start in many ways:
- Job opportunities: Most private employers aren’t allowed to ask about arrests or convictions that have been expunged. You can typically answer “no” when asked if you’ve ever been convicted of a crime.
- Housing applications: Landlords often run background checks, and a dismissed record could remove a big obstacle to finding a place to live.
- Professional licenses: Some licenses or certifications may be easier to obtain with an expungement in place.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your conviction is officially dismissed can feel like a weight has been lifted.
Expungement doesn’t solve everything, as you may still face legal consequences related to your conviction in some situations. Still, for most day-to-day uses, an expungement can greatly improve your life.
Contact Our Redwood CityExpungement Attorneys for a Free Case Review
You don’t have to let an old conviction limit your future. Under California law, there may be a path to clearing your record, and Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys, can walk you through it. With 30 years of combined experience and thousands of victories—including 50 won at trial—we have the skill to handle tough cases.
Ready to get started? Call our Redwood City law office or reach out online to schedule a free consultation. Our Redwood City expungement attorneys will discuss your situation and advise you on your best next steps.
Visit Our Criminal Defense Law Office in Redwood City, CA
Ahmed & Sukaram, Criminal Defense Attorneys
600 Allerton St Suite 201G,
Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 299-0500
Additional Redwood City Expungement Resources
Redwood City, CA Courts
- Superior Court of California, County of San Mateo
400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063 - Hall of Justice
400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063 - San Mateo Superior Court – Family Law
400 County Center, Redwood City, CA 94063
Redwood City, CA Expungement Lawyer Review
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