Expungement Attorney in Los Angeles
Call (866) 713-2159 for a free consultation with a California expungement lawyer who understands how Los Angeles courts handle these petitions
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Case Review
Legal Assistance for Clearing Criminal Records Under California Law
A criminal conviction can follow you for years, affecting job opportunities, housing, and professional licenses. At Tabibnia Law, Los Angeles expungement attorney Cyrus Tabibnia has helped hundreds of clients clear their criminal records under California Penal Code 1203.4.
With over 20 years of criminal defense experience in Los Angeles County, our firm provides experienced legal representation for misdemeanor expungements, felony dismissals, DUI record clearing, and domestic violence conviction relief.
How Expungement Works in California
An expungement is a court-ordered legal process that allows a qualifying conviction to be dismissed after probation is successfully completed. Although California does not offer complete erasure of criminal records, Penal Code §1203.4 allows eligible individuals to withdraw a guilty plea or verdict and have the case officially dismissed.
This form of relief can significantly improve employment prospects, professional licensing eligibility, and background check results, even though certain government records may remain accessible.
The Expungement Process in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, expungement petitions must be filed with the Superior Court and the judge who handled the original conviction. Each courthouse may follow different procedural requirements, making local legal knowledge essential to avoid delays or denials.
At Tabibnia Law, our criminal defense attorneys guide clients through every step of the Los Angeles expungement process. Attorney Cyrus Tabibnia has filed expungement petitions in courthouses throughout Los Angeles County, including the LA Superior Court Central District, Van Nuys Courthouse, and other locations. Our experience with local prosecutors and judges means we know what each court expects and can anticipate potential objections before they arise.
Expungement vs. Pardons in California
Expungements and pardons are two distinct legal remedies that can be used to clear an individual’s criminal record. While both can be used to remove the conviction from an individual’s record, they differ in how they are granted and their legal effects.
Expungements
Expungement is a court-based remedy that changes the legal status of a conviction. If granted, the case is dismissed in court records, which generally allows an individual to state that they have not been convicted of the offense.
Pardons
Pardons are granted by the Governor or President and do not dismiss or erase a conviction. Instead, a pardon represents official forgiveness and may restore certain rights, while the conviction itself remains on record.
For most individuals seeking relief from the consequences of a criminal record, expungement is the more practical and accessible option.
Expungement vs. Sealing of Arrest Records
Expungement and record sealing are often confused, but they are distinct legal remedies with different eligibility rules and outcomes.
Expungement (Penal Code §1203.4)
- Applies after a criminal conviction (misdemeanor or qualifying felony)
- Requires successful completion of probation or early termination
- Results in dismissal of the conviction from court records
- Does not erase law enforcement or Department of Justice records
Sealing of Arrest Records (Penal Code §851.91)
- Applies when no conviction occurred or a conviction was vacated
- Available after an acquittal or dismissal
- Removes the arrest from public background checks
- Law enforcement agencies may still access sealed records
For individuals who were arrested but never convicted, record sealing may provide broader relief than expungement.
Who Is Eligible for Expungement in California?
According to the California penal code, expungement is only an option for defendants who have been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor and successfully completed all requirements of their probation.
Offenses That May Qualify for Expungement
Common offenses that may qualify include DUI, drug possession, petty theft, domestic violence, shoplifting, fraud, and certain felony convictions sentenced to county jail rather than state prison.
You may not be eligible if:
- You served time in state prison for the offense
- You are currently on probation or parole
- You are facing new criminal charges
- The conviction involved certain serious sex offenses against minors
Eligibility varies by case, making a legal review essential before filing.
Expungement for Sex-Related Offenses
Some sex crime convictions may qualify for expungement depending on the offense and sentencing structure. Certain misdemeanor sex offenses may be eligible, while others, particularly those involving minors, are excluded.
Expungement does not automatically eliminate registration or reporting requirements, so professional legal guidance is critical.
How a Los Angeles Expungement Attorney Helps
An experienced expungement lawyer has a thorough understanding of the California legal process and requirements for expungement. He will advise you on eligibility, help gather and prepare the necessary documentation, and represent you in court. He will also advocate on your behalf and present a strong case for why your criminal record should be expunged, particularly important if you are facing opposition from the prosecution. Specifically, Cyrus will handle:
- Reviewing eligibility under California law
- Preparing and filing California expungement petitions
- Responding to prosecutorial objections
- Representing clients in court when required
- Advising on post-expungement rights and limitations in California
Cost of Expungement in Los Angeles
Costs vary depending on case complexity, number of convictions, and whether court appearances are required. During your consultation, Mr. Tabibnia will provide a clear explanation of anticipated costs and next steps.
What Expungement Can and Cannot Do
- Updates court records to reflect a dismissal
- Improves employment and background check outcomes
- Enhances housing and licensing opportunities
- Reduces stigma from a past conviction
- Erase law enforcement or internal government records
- Remove DMV or DOJ records
- Prevent use of the conviction in future sentencing
Preparing for Your Expungement Consultation
Be Prepared to Discuss:
- The details of your conviction(s)
- Whether probation was completed
- Any pending or new criminal charges
- Your employment or licensing goals
Important Questions to Ask:
- Am I eligible for expungement?
- How long will the process take?
- What changes after expungement?
- What are the total legal costs?
Contact a Los Angeles Expungement Attorney Today
Timing, eligibility, and strict compliance with California law all affect expungement outcomes. Errors can delay or prevent relief entirely.
Call (866) 713-2159 today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward clearing your criminal record and moving forward with confidence.
Case Review
Meet California Expungement Attorney Cyrus Tabibnia, Esq.
- California Bar #237348
- Juris Doctor, Loyola Law School, Los Angeles
- Practicing since 2005 with over 20 years of experience
- Fluent in English, Persian, and Spanish
Cyrus Tabibnia is one of Los Angeles’ experienced criminal defense attorneys and expungement lawyers, proudly serving clients throughout Los Angeles County and California.
His practice focuses on criminal defense, expungement, and record-clearing strategies for misdemeanors, felonies, DUI, domestic violence, theft, and drug offenses.
As a former board member of the Iranian American Bar Association and a Loyola Law School graduate, Mr. Tabibnia brings both legal expertise and a deep understanding of how criminal convictions affect his clients’ lives and careers.
His multilingual practice (English, Persian, Spanish) allows Tabibnia Law to serve the diverse communities of Los Angeles.
Contact a Los Angeles Expungement Attorney Today
Timing, eligibility, and strict compliance with California law all affect expungement outcomes. Errors can delay or prevent relief entirely.
Call (866) 713-2159 today for a free, confidential consultation and take the first step toward clearing your record and moving forward with confidence.
