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.


Asked on 9/15/08, 12:16 pm

4 Answers from Attorneys

Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

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.

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Answered on 9/15/08, 2:20 pm
Jacek W. Lentz Law Offices of Jacek W. Lentz

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

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Answered on 9/15/08, 3:58 pm
Ryan P. McClure The Law Offices of Ryan P. McClure

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.

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Answered on 9/15/08, 6:44 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

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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Answered on 9/15/08, 1:02 pm


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