Clear Your Record, Secure Your Future

Expungement & Record Sealing Attorney

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Expungement

Clear your criminal records so you can move forward with peace of mind.

Record Sealing

Seal your record and move forward without past mistakes following you.

Felony Reduction

A felony reduction allows eligible felony convictions to be reduced to misdemeanors.

Get Your Life Back on Track with an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney

A Fresh Start Is Possible

At Cole Law, you receive experienced, dedicated representation from a criminal defense attorney with nearly 15 years of practice. I have handled hundreds of cases across California, from the Bay Area to Los Angeles, with a strong focus on expungements, record sealings, and felony reductions.

I understand that dealing with a criminal record or navigating the legal system can be confusing, overwhelming, and frustrating. Every case is different, and the stakes are personal. That is why my approach is straightforward: provide clear guidance, honest advice, and effective legal solutions tailored to your situation.

My goal is to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. From your initial consultation through the resolution of your case, you will have an attorney who communicates clearly, moves your case forward efficiently, and genuinely cares about the outcome.

FREE CONSULTATION

Why Choose Allison Cole?

  1. Proven Success

    Hundreds of criminal records cleared — demonstrating consistent real results.

  2. Knowledge & Expertise

    A Santa Clara University & University of San Francisco School graduate with an in-depth understanding of California criminal law.

  3. Personalized Attention

    An attorney who communicates clearly, moves your case forward efficiently, and genuinely cares about the outcome.

Frequently Asked Questions

1What is an expungement?
In California, expungement (legally termed a "dismissal" under Penal Code 1203.4) is a post-conviction process that sets aside a criminal conviction, allowing a defendant to withdraw their plea of guilty or nolo contendere and enter a "not guilty" plea. It acts as a legal "fresh start," allowing individuals to tell employers they have no convictions, though it does not erase the record entirely, as it remains visible to law enforcement and in certain background checks.
2Am I eligible for expungement?
In California, expungement (technically a "dismissal") requires completing probation or a sentence, paying all court-ordered fines and restitution, and having no active pending criminal charges. Eligible individuals must file Form CR-180 with the superior court; there is generally no fee, and most misdemeanors and some felonies qualify.
3What is the process like?
Get your California RAP sheet or case records. Complete and file Petition for Dismissal (Form CR-180) and Order for Dismissal (Form CR-181) in the county where the conviction occurred. The District Attorney must be notified of the petition. A hearing may be scheduled, though many are processed without one. As of July 2023, there is no court cost for an expungement petition.
4How long does it take to clear my record?
Expungement of a criminal record in California typically takes 90 to 120 days, though some cases can take up to six months. The timeline depends heavily on the county court's caseload, case complexity, and the age of the conviction.