You Were Arrested—But Never Convicted. Now What?
Being arrested can be traumatic, even if you’re never formally charged or you’re found not guilty. Unfortunately, arrest records in California don’t disappear automatically—and they can still show up in background checks.
That’s where sealing your arrest record comes in. Thanks to recent updates in California law you may be entitled to have your arrest record sealed if:
• No charges were filed,
• Charges were dismissed, or
• You were found not guilty.
Here’s what that means for you—and how to take action.
🚫 Why Sealing Matters: Arrest ≠ Conviction
Many people assume that once they walk out of the courtroom, their record is clean. Not true.
An unsealed arrest can:
• Show up on background checks
• Harm job or housing opportunities
• Affect professional licenses
• Damage your reputation
Even if you weren’t guilty of anything.
✅ Are You Eligible to Seal Your Arrest Record?
Under California law, you may be eligible if:
• You were arrested but charges were never filed
• Your case was dismissed
• You completed a diversion program
• You were acquitted (found not guilty)
In most cases, you are legally entitled to have your record sealed. But it doesn’t happen automatically—you have to request it through the court.
⏱ How Long Do You Have to Wait?
- In most situations, you can file right away. However, if law enforcement believes you still may be charged, they can request a delay. An experienced expungement attorney can help navigate that process.
- Once sealed, the arrest is legally treated as though it never occurred. Employers and landlords won’t see it. Your peace of mind? Restored.
💼 Do I Need a Lawyer?
You could do this yourself—but should you? Probably not. Court procedures are technical. A mistake in your petition can lead to delays or denials.
An Arrest record sealing attorney can:
• Help you determine eligibility
• File correctly the first time
• Represent you at your hearing
• Save you time and stress
📣 Don’t Let a Past Arrest Ruin Your Future Sealing your arrest record is your legal right—don’t leave it up to chance.
🕊 You Deserve a Fresh Start.
At the Law Office of Chirnese L. Liverpool, we handle arrest record sealing and expungements with care, confidentiality, and compassion. Let us help you move forward without the weight of the past.
Ready to face your new beginning?
Contact us today!
📞 Call: (818) 714-2200
🌐 Website: www.LiverpoolLegal.com
Book your consultation today