Legal Question in Criminal Law in California
Convicted or not?
I was recently arrested for stealing and I pleaded no contest in court. I am on non-parole probation until 2011. However, I am applying for colleges and they are asking if I have been convicted of a misdemeanor. Does pleading no contest mean I have been convicted? I need to know so I don't misanswer those questions.
4 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Convicted or not?
Of course it does; the charges were not dropped, and you were sentenced, right? Once you've successfully completed your probation, you could file an Application and Motion with the court to expunge the conviction, which would allow you to say 'no' to conviction on most private employment applications. Feel free to contact me when the time comes.
Re: Convicted or not?
Yes, you have been convicted and the conviction will stay on your record. However, at the end of your probation you can request the court to "expunge" your conviction which will legally allow you not to disclose the conviction in certain situations such as when applying for a job.
Sometimes, it is possible to come to court and request termination of probation and expungement early, perhaps one year into or midway through your 3 year probation.
Jacek W. Lentz, Esq.
310.273.1361
www.lentzlawfirm.com
Re: Convicted or not?
Yes, this is a conviction. It depends on whether you were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony. Call the court and inquire.
Re: Convicted or not?
You are a convicted thief. I assume the amount was under $400 and, therefore, this was a misdemeanor conviction. Over $400 you could be a convicted felon, check with the court clerk or web site.
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