Expungements

Expungements in Los Angeles

Individual Review for California Record Relief

A California expungement can change an eligible conviction to a dismissal, but obtaining relief requires the correct petition, supporting records, and court procedure. Law Offices of Colleen O'Hara represents Los Angeles clients through eligibility review, petition preparation, filing, and the procedures of the court that handled the original case.

Each assessment considers the conviction history, sentence, probation record, and available court file. This review helps determine whether a petition for dismissal is appropriate or another form of post-conviction relief should be considered.

Call (213) 996-0529 to request a free consultation about expungement eligibility and the next steps in a Los Angeles case.

Eligibility for a California Expungement

California Penal Code section 1203.4 permits certain people to ask the court to withdraw a guilty or no-contest plea and dismiss the case. Relief may be available after probation is completed, after an early discharge from probation, or through judicial discretion when the probationary period ends.

Eligibility depends on the complete record rather than the conviction label alone. The court may consider whether probation was completed successfully and whether the petitioner meets the statute’s other requirements.

Several issues can affect whether this relief is available:

State prison sentence: People who served time in California state prison generally don’t qualify, subject to a Realignment-related exception for offenses that would have resulted in county jail after 2011.
Excluded convictions: Certain serious or violent felonies and offenses requiring sex offender registration aren’t eligible for dismissal under this law.
Case history: The sentence, probation performance, and court record must be examined before the petition is prepared.

What Expungement Changes on Background Checks

When a petition is granted, the conviction is changed to a dismissal on most criminal background checks. This can improve how the matter appears in many routine employment and housing screenings, but it doesn’t erase every government record or eliminate every legal consequence.

The dismissed conviction may remain accessible to government agencies. It can also remain relevant to government employment, sensitive professional licenses, immigration matters, and law enforcement purposes. Anyone facing an immigration or licensing concern should obtain advice about that separate issue before relying on a dismissal.

Firearm Restrictions May Remain in Effect
A dismissal doesn’t restore the right to own, possess, or control a firearm. A person subject to a firearm restriction shouldn’t assume that expungement removes it. The available options depend on the conviction and the legal source of the restriction.

Continue Reading Read Less

Get Your Free Consultation Today

No cost, no commitment—just trusted legal advice. Speak with us today to discuss your case and explore your options.

Claim Your Free Consultation

Los Angeles Expungement Representation

Attorney Colleen O’Hara brings more than 25 years of experience in personal injury and post-conviction relief. Her courtroom background informs a practical approach to reviewing records, identifying procedural issues, and presenting requests for relief.

The firm handles the principal stages of an expungement matter, from assessing eligibility to preparing and filing the petition. It also guides clients through local courthouse procedures and explains what the requested dismissal can and can’t change.

A Strategy Based on the Individual Record
Two convictions involving similar charges may have different outcomes because of the sentence imposed, probation history, or later court activity. The firm evaluates each record before recommending a filing strategy, giving clients guidance tailored to the facts and procedural posture of their cases.

The Los Angeles Expungement Filing Process

An expungement petition must be filed in the Superior Court for the county where the conviction occurred. For a Los Angeles conviction, the matter proceeds through the courthouse associated with the original criminal case.

The petition process generally includes:

Reviewing the conviction record, sentence, and probation history
Preparing the required petition for dismissal and supporting materials
Submitting the filing to the correct court
Providing required notice and awaiting court review

Notice, Costs & Court Review

California Penal Code section 1203.4 requires 15 days’ notice to the prosecuting attorney before relief may be granted. This gives the prosecution an opportunity to review and respond to the request.

A court may require reimbursement of actual service costs of up to $150 each for the court, county, and city, regardless of whether the petition is granted. The amount assessed and the procedure involved can depend on the agencies connected to the case.

Timing & Petition Assistance

Most matters take several months from beginning to end. Timing depends on court schedules, case complexity, and whether additional documents are required. A petition requiring further records or judicial consideration may take longer than a straightforward filing.

Los Angeles residents also have a right to seek petition assistance from the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Certificate of Rehabilitation Paralegal. Private representation provides another option for individualized review, document preparation, and guidance throughout the proceeding.

Continue Reading Read Less

Compassionate Service, Unwavering Integrity.

Our Commitment
to You

Fighting for Justice, Every Step of the Way
Whether you’ve been injured due to negligence or are seeking a second chance through post-conviction relief, we are committed to protecting your rights and your future.
Legal Advocacy Without Barriers
With Spanish-speaking services and free consultations, we ensure that language and cost are never obstacles to getting the legal help you need.
Proven Results, Compassionate Representation
From personal injury claims to post-conviction relief, we fight tirelessly for the best outcome, so you can move forward with confidence.
Your Case, Your Future—Handled With Care
Every case is personal. Whether you’re recovering from an accident or challenging a conviction, we provide strategic, results-driven representation tailored to your needs.

Discuss California Record Relief

A no-cost consultation allows Los Angeles residents to discuss their conviction history and receive an individual assessment of potential record relief. Spanish-language services are available for people who prefer to discuss their case in Spanish.

The consultation can clarify whether expungement may apply, what records are needed, and which court would handle the petition. Prospective clients may contact the firm by phone or submit the contact form.

Call (213) 996-0529 to schedule a free consultation with Law Offices of Colleen O'Hara about clearing an eligible California conviction.

Expungement vs. Arrest Record Sealing

These forms of relief address different kinds of records. Expungement concerns a conviction and allows an eligible person to seek dismissal after satisfying the applicable requirements.

Sealing and destroying an arrest record under California law is a separate process. Record sealing may be available when someone was arrested but never charged, had the charges dismissed, was acquitted, had a conviction overturned on appeal, or completed a diversion program.

The appropriate form of relief depends on what occurred after the arrest and whether the case produced a conviction. A review of the complete case history can determine whether the person should pursue a petition for dismissal, arrest record sealing, or another available remedy.

Continue Reading Read Less

Claim Your Free Consultation

First Name
Please enter your first name.
Last Name
Please enter your last name.
Phone
Please enter your phone number.

This isn't a valid phone number.
Email
Please enter your email address.

This isn't a valid email address.
Are you a new client?
Please make a selection.
How can we help you?
Please enter a message.
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Law Offices of Colleen O'Hara at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Trusted Advocacy, Proven Results.

Real Stories from Real Clients

"A Second Chance at Life"
Colleen O'Hara's dedication and strategic brilliance turned a life sentence into a second chance, proving her unmatched expertise in post-conviction relief and litigation.

- Carlos I.
"A Heartfelt Thank You"
With gratitude and admiration, this client thanks Colleen O'Hara for her compassionate support and dedication, forever grateful for her heartfelt assistance.

- Alejandra G.
"A Blessing in Disguise"
Colleen O'Hara’s unwavering commitment and relentless efforts turned a difficult case into a victory, bringing freedom and joy back to this family.

- Desiree O.