Expungement in California
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
California allows dismissal under Penal Code § 1203.4 after probation completion, or under § 17(b) for wobbler offenses.
How California treats Expungement
California permits expungement through Penal Code § 1203.4, which dismisses a conviction after you complete probation, allowing you to withdraw your guilty plea. You can petition immediately if probation is terminated early. For wobbler offenses (crimes punishable as felony or misdemeanor), Penal Code § 17(b) allows reduction to misdemeanor status. Once dismissed, you may legally state you were not convicted for most purposes, though the arrest record may remain and certain employers and licensing boards can still see it.
The general definition of Expungement
A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.
Expungement allows you to have a criminal conviction removed from your official record, as if it never happened. Once expunged, you can legally say you were never convicted of that crime in most situations. Not all convictions qualify—eligibility depends on the crime, how much time has passed, and your state's laws. This gives people a fresh start and removes barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Read the full Expungement entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in California.