Convictions, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors, can cause great damage to your criminal record. Your criminal record can affect your housing, employment and education options. If you are convicted of a crime, you can be denied student or bank loans. The repercussions for criminal convictions will change your life and constantly impose annoying limitations.

            Luckily, there is a way in which you can "cleanse" your criminal record. Expungement is the deletion, or removal, of criminal offenses from your record. A successful expungement can expand your opportunities and give you a clean slate.

            In California, you can petition the state for expungement. If you have a misdemeanor on your criminal record, the process is relatively simple, and can take effect within weeks. Expungements, especially for felony offenses, can take time and paperwork. There are certain guidelines that must be followed in order for an expungement to be successful.

            If you are considering petitioning for expungement of your criminal record, it is always beneficial to seek the counsel of an attorney who is familiar with California law and the expungement process.