Top 100 National Lawyers•5 Star Avvo Rating•10 Stars Justia Lawyer Rating•The State Bar of California•Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished® Peer Rated for High Professional Achievement 2026•Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion Silver 2026•4.6 Stars Yelp Rated•4.7 Google Rating•Top 100 National Lawyers•5 Star Avvo Rating•10 Stars Justia Lawyer Rating•The State Bar of California•Martindale-Hubbell Distinguished® Peer Rated for High Professional Achievement 2026•Martindale-Hubbell Client Champion Silver 2026•4.6 Stars Yelp Rated•4.7 Google Rating
Free Case Consultation

CALL US NOW

(888) 788-7589
Free Case Consultation
Latest Case Results
Felony Expungement Record Expunged Felony Reduction Expunged & Reduced Felony Expungement Record Expunged DUI Expungement DUI Expunged PC 290 Removal Registration Removed Felony Expungement Record Expunged
Felony Expungement Record Expunged Felony Reduction Expunged & Reduced Felony Expungement Record Expunged DUI Expungement DUI Expunged PC 290 Removal Registration Removed Felony Expungement Record Expunged

Clear Your Felony Record

Felony Expungement Lawyer in Half Moon Bay

Felony Expungement Guide

A felony conviction can follow you for life, affecting your employment, housing, and reputation. California Expungement Attorneys understand the burden of carrying a felony record and are committed to helping you pursue relief. Felony expungement allows you to petition the court to dismiss your conviction, clearing your record and restoring your rights. Whether you completed probation, served your sentence, or were wrongfully convicted, you may qualify for this life-changing opportunity.

The expungement process involves filing a petition with the court, demonstrating that you meet the legal requirements, and presenting your case to a judge. California Expungement Attorneys has successfully guided countless clients through this process, helping them reclaim their futures. Our team provides personalized legal representation tailored to your specific situation. We handle all aspects of your case, from initial consultation to final court appearance, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

Why Felony Expungement Matters

Expunging a felony conviction offers transformative benefits that extend far beyond the courtroom. You can legally answer that you have no criminal record on most job applications, giving you equal footing with other candidates. Landlords cannot use an expunged conviction against you, opening doors to housing opportunities you may have been denied. Your professional licenses, voting rights, and gun rights may be restored depending on your conviction and circumstances. Beyond practical benefits, expungement provides psychological closure and the chance to move forward without the stigma of a felony record.

Talk to a Lawyer

Our Experience in Felony Expungement

California Expungement Attorneys brings years of dedicated practice in expungement law and post-conviction relief. David Lehr and our team have helped hundreds of clients successfully expunge felony convictions across San Mateo County and beyond. We understand California’s evolving expungement laws and know how to build compelling cases that convince judges to grant relief. Our track record of successful petitions speaks to our knowledge, preparation, and advocacy skills. We treat each client with respect and work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
Schedule a Consultation

Understanding Felony Expungement

Felony expungement is a legal process that allows you to petition the court to have your conviction dismissed and removed from your public criminal record. Unlike record sealing, which hides your conviction from public view but allows law enforcement to access it, expungement essentially erases the conviction from your official record. Once expunged, you can legally state that you were not arrested or convicted for that crime on most applications, with limited exceptions for certain professional licenses and public employment. The process requires meeting specific eligibility requirements, which vary depending on your conviction type and how much time has passed.
The expungement petition process begins with thorough case review and legal analysis to determine your eligibility and likelihood of success. We gather relevant documents, including court records, sentencing information, and evidence of rehabilitation. Next, we prepare and file your petition with supporting declarations and arguments addressing the statutory requirements. We then present your case at a hearing before the judge, advocating for dismissal of your conviction. If granted, the conviction is formally dismissed, and you receive an order allowing you to petition for related relief such as gun rights restoration.

Need More Information?

Find Out If You Have a Case

Key Terms and Glossary

Expungement

A legal process that dismisses a criminal conviction and removes it from your public record, allowing you to legally deny the arrest and conviction ever occurred.

Record Sealing

A process that hides your criminal conviction from public view and employer access, though law enforcement and certain agencies can still view the sealed record.

Probation

A period of supervision by the court or probation department as an alternative to or in addition to incarceration, during which you must comply with specific conditions.

Dismissal

A court order that formally eliminates your criminal conviction, stating that the charges against you are dismissed and the conviction is set aside.

PRO TIPS

Gather Your Documents Early

Collecting your court records, sentencing documents, and any evidence of rehabilitation before meeting with an attorney will streamline the process and help us prepare a stronger petition. You can request these documents from the courthouse where your case was handled or work with your attorney to obtain them. The more complete your documentation, the faster we can move forward with your expungement petition.

Document Your Rehabilitation

Judges are more likely to grant expungement when they see evidence that you have turned your life around since your conviction. Keep records of employment, education, community service, counseling completion, letters of recommendation, and any other achievements demonstrating your rehabilitation. These documents strengthen your petition and show the court that you are a changed person deserving of a second chance.

Meet with an Attorney Promptly

Waiting to seek legal help can delay your expungement and keep you living with a felony record longer than necessary. An attorney can immediately assess your eligibility, identify any legal changes that benefit your case, and begin preparing your petition. The sooner you contact us, the sooner you can take control of your future and move past your conviction.

Comparing Your Legal Options

When Full Expungement is Your Best Choice:

You Meet All Eligibility Requirements

If you have completed your sentence, paid all restitution, and satisfied all probation requirements, you are likely eligible for full expungement under California law. Expungement completely removes your conviction from your public record, allowing you to legally deny the arrest and conviction occurred. This comprehensive relief is far superior to record sealing, which only hides your conviction from public view while leaving it accessible to certain agencies.

You Need Full Legal Rights Restoration

Expungement may restore your right to own firearms, obtain certain professional licenses, and practice in fields previously closed to you. If restoring these rights is important to your future plans, expungement is the comprehensive solution you need. Record sealing alone will not provide these benefits, making full expungement the better choice when your goals require complete legal restoration.

When Record Sealing Might Be Sufficient:

You Cannot Yet Qualify for Full Expungement

If you are still serving probation, have unpaid restitution, or do not meet other eligibility requirements, record sealing may be available as an interim solution. Record sealing hides your conviction from employers and landlords, improving your job and housing prospects while you work toward full expungement eligibility. Once you meet all expungement requirements, you can petition for full dismissal of your conviction.

You Only Need Employment and Housing Relief

If your primary concern is securing employment and housing without your conviction showing up on background checks, record sealing provides meaningful relief. Record sealing prevents employers and landlords from accessing your conviction record, though law enforcement and certain government agencies retain access. For many people, this level of privacy is sufficient to move forward with their lives.

Common Situations When Felony Expungement Helps

Job Loss or Employment Barriers

A felony conviction often prevents you from obtaining employment or advancing in your career. Expungement removes this barrier, allowing you to apply for jobs and answer honestly that you have no criminal record.

Housing Discrimination

Landlords frequently deny housing to applicants with felony convictions, leaving you with limited options. Expungement clears your record so you can qualify for housing you deserve.

Professional License Denial

Many professional licenses require a clean criminal record for application and renewal. Expungement may restore your eligibility to practice in your field of choice.

David M. Lehr

Half Moon Bay Felony Expungement Attorney

Contact Us About Your Case

Why Choose California Expungement Attorneys

California Expungement Attorneys is dedicated exclusively to helping people clear their records and reclaim their futures. We understand the personal and professional impact of a felony conviction and bring genuine compassion to every case we handle. Our deep knowledge of California expungement law, combined with years of courtroom experience, positions us to build the strongest possible case for your petition. We have established relationships with judges and prosecutors throughout San Mateo County, allowing us to advocate effectively on your behalf.

When you work with California Expungement Attorneys, you receive personalized attention from David Lehr and our experienced team, not a paralegal or junior attorney. We invest time in understanding your unique circumstances, concerns, and goals for the future. Our transparent communication keeps you informed throughout the process, and we stand ready to answer your questions. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for your expungement petition and helping you move forward with confidence.

Contact Us for a Confidential Consultation

(888) 788-7589

People Also Search For

Misdemeanor Expungement

Record Sealing

DUI Expungement

Felony Reduction

Drug Conviction Expungement

Pardons & Rehabilitation

Post-Conviction Relief

Criminal Record Dismissal

Related Services

FAQS

Am I eligible for felony expungement?

Eligibility for felony expungement depends on several factors, including the type of felony, whether you completed your sentence and probation, and whether you have paid all restitution. Generally, most felonies can be expunged if you successfully completed your sentence and probation, though some violent crimes may have restrictions. California law has expanded expungement eligibility in recent years, meaning you might qualify even if you were told expungement was impossible years ago. Our attorneys will review your case thoroughly during your consultation to determine your specific eligibility. We examine your conviction, sentencing, probation status, and any changes in the law that might benefit you. If you are not yet eligible for full expungement, we can discuss alternative options such as record sealing or discuss a timeline for when you may become eligible.

The timeline for felony expungement varies depending on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule. Many straightforward cases can be completed within three to six months from filing to final court decision. More complex cases or situations requiring additional investigation and evidence gathering may take longer, potentially six to twelve months or more. California Expungement Attorneys will provide you with a realistic timeline during your consultation based on your specific circumstances. We handle all the paperwork, court filings, and scheduling, so you can focus on moving forward with your life. We keep you updated at every stage and prepare you thoroughly for your court hearing.

Expungement and record sealing are related but distinct legal processes that offer different levels of relief. Expungement dismisses your conviction and removes it from your public criminal record, allowing you to legally deny the arrest and conviction occurred on most applications. Record sealing keeps your conviction hidden from public view and employer access, but law enforcement and certain government agencies can still access the sealed record. Expungement is generally superior because it provides complete public relief and may restore certain rights such as gun ownership or professional licenses. However, if you do not meet all expungement requirements, record sealing may be available as an interim solution. We help you understand which option is best for your situation and guide you through the legal process.

Yes, it is possible for a judge to deny your expungement petition, though denials are relatively uncommon when you work with an experienced attorney. A petition may be denied if you do not meet the legal eligibility requirements, if the court finds you have not been rehabilitated, or if the prosecutor successfully argues against expungement. Some serious or violent felonies may face greater scrutiny than others. Our role is to minimize the risk of denial by carefully assessing your case, gathering compelling evidence of rehabilitation, and presenting the strongest possible arguments to the judge. We address potential objections from the prosecution and demonstrate why you deserve expungement. If your petition is denied, we may be able to file again after additional rehabilitation or when new laws provide additional eligibility.

Expungement may restore your right to own and possess firearms, depending on your conviction type and California’s current laws. Some felonies carry permanent firearm restrictions even after expungement, while others allow restoration of gun rights through the expungement process or a separate petition. Federal law also restricts certain people from possessing firearms regardless of state expungement. During your consultation, we will discuss whether firearm rights restoration is possible given your specific conviction. If eligible, we can file the appropriate petitions to restore your gun rights as part of your expungement case or through a separate process. Understanding all available relief options is part of our comprehensive approach to your case.

Yes, you can petition to expunge multiple felony convictions, and California allows you to address all qualifying convictions in your case. Some convictions can be expunged while others may be sealed or addressed through separate legal processes. The eligibility and timeline for each conviction may differ depending on the specific crime, sentence, and circumstances. California Expungement Attorneys will develop a comprehensive strategy addressing all your convictions and maximizing the relief available to you. We file petitions strategically and efficiently to minimize court appearances and legal costs while achieving the best outcome for each conviction. During your consultation, we will outline how we plan to address each conviction.

If you were wrongfully convicted, you may have additional legal options beyond standard expungement, including petition for habeas corpus relief or DNA testing if applicable. Wrongful conviction cases often qualify for expedited expungement or other forms of post-conviction relief. The specific process depends on the nature of the conviction and available evidence of innocence. We encourage anyone who believes they were wrongfully convicted to contact us immediately. We will evaluate all available legal remedies and work tirelessly to prove your innocence and clear your record completely. Your case may also qualify for compensation through the state’s wrongful conviction settlement program.

The cost of felony expungement depends on the complexity of your case, the number of convictions being addressed, and whether the prosecutor objects to your petition. California Expungement Attorneys offers transparent fee structures and will discuss all costs with you during your initial consultation before beginning work on your case. We work with clients to find fee arrangements that fit their financial situation. Many clients find that the cost of expungement is a valuable investment in their future, as the benefits of a cleared record far outweigh the legal fees. We handle all the work, court filings, and representation, so you can proceed with confidence knowing you have a skilled attorney advocating for your rights.

Once your conviction is expunged, you can legally answer on most applications that you were not arrested or convicted of that crime. However, there are limited exceptions where you must disclose an expunged conviction, including when applying for certain professional licenses, public sector employment, and positions involving children or vulnerable populations. Law enforcement agencies also retain access to expunged records. The general rule is that you can deny an expunged conviction on private job applications, housing applications, and general background checks. Your attorney will explain the specific limitations that apply to your situation. In most circumstances, expungement allows you to move forward without disclosing your conviction.

To make the most of your initial consultation with California Expungement Attorneys, please bring any documents related to your conviction and sentence. This includes court records, sentencing documents, probation paperwork, proof of completion of probation or sentence, and any evidence of rehabilitation such as employment records or education certificates. You should also bring valid identification and be prepared to discuss your case history. If you do not have all these documents, do not worry—we can help you obtain them from the court or other agencies. Our goal in the initial consultation is to understand your situation fully, assess your eligibility, explain the process, and answer all your questions. Come prepared to discuss your case and goals, and we will handle the rest.

Legal Services