Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

expunging a charge

I have a 9 year old drug charge which I successfully attended a diversion program and after the probation period I went before the judge where I was congratulated and was told that it would be expunged from my record. 9 years later I was in the court building and I was looking up a case on the computer and was surprised to find the charge is still in the computer. Now I remember the judge using the word ''expunge'' . Am I being naive about this or did the judge just use the wrong words that day. I really dont want it on the record so I guess I will have to pay to have it expunged. I live in Napa ca and if any of you have ever been here in court you will understand when I say '' There is no place Quite like Napa!'' Is there some sort of average fee for this? Is it something I could do myself with the proper forms? Silly me, I took the Judge at her words and was really taken back when I saw my charge still there. Am I making a mountain out of a MoleHill?


Asked on 3/04/07, 3:55 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lyle Johnson Bedi and Johnson Attorneys at Law

Re: expunging a charge

All cases filed with the court are maintained in the court register of cases forever. The case should be listed with the department of justice as dismissed. Although it is still on the court list of cases it should not be used for any purpose, as it is not a conviction.

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Answered on 3/15/07, 12:23 am


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