In the age of the internet, details about our public and private lives are collected and stored – possibly forever. What’s worse, this information can be found very quickly through an internet search or background check. This is particularly damaging when you were accused of a crime like domestic violence, which is highly stigmatized and can prevent you from getting hired for a job or qualifying for desirable housing.
It’s one thing to be faced with an earned criminal record. It is quite another to be haunted by records of arrests that did not ultimately result in a lasting conviction. Thankfully, under the right circumstances, you can petition California courts to seal your arrest and court records.
You are eligible to petition for sealing your records under any of the following four circumstances. First, if you were arrested but never charged. Second, if you were charged with a crime but later had the charges dismissed. Third, if you were charged and acquitted (found not guilty). Finally, if you were convicted but were able to overturn the conviction on appeal.
We discuss the process and requirements in greater detail on our sealing arrest records page. You can read more details on our site. Suffice it to say, however, that our firm is highly experienced in and knowledgeable about domestic violence defense and attending to the collateral consequences of being arrested or charged.
If you’ve been accused of domestic violence and don’t know what to do next, contact our office to arrange an initial consultation with one of our skilled defense attorneys. You may have more rights and legal options than you realize.
