Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Vacatating and Expunging Criminal History

I have relocated to California and need help vacating and expunging criminal history in order to obtain a job in my field.

The incident was in 1991 in the state of washington. I was told I can have it expunged but I do not understand the paperwork.

I am unable to get work due to the criminal history. I accepted an alford plea for allegedly slapping a police officer. I did not understand what that would do to me in the long run and was told by the court appointed attorney at that time that because I was African American and the judge was white and the police officers where white I could not win.

I stated I would take my chances because I did not do anything. I was told I could not use witnesses I new on a casual basis because they were my friends and the only other person I could think of was the security guard from the restaurant club.

On the day of court the attorney told me the security guard not only stated I was fighting outside but I also started a riot on the inside of club. I was broken at that point as I was told I was looking at 10 yrs and I was a single mom of 4 sons. I took the plea.

I later found out from the witnesses that it was my neice who slapped the police officer and I am still paying for it.


Asked on 1/05/09, 12:19 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: Vacatating and Expunging Criminal History

What court has this conviction? It sounds like an assault 3 which can be vacated. If a court where I practice then I'll be happy to vacate your conviction. There is a good chance we can do so without you coming to Washington. Contact me directly for further assistance.

At your service,

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Answered on 1/05/09, 1:15 pm


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