Conviction dismissal
A qualifying misdemeanor or felony conviction may be eligible to be set aside and dismissed after sentence or probation requirements are met.
Bakersfield & Kern County record-clearing help
Your record is part of your past. It does not have to control your future.
California offers several forms of post-conviction relief. We evaluate whether your case may qualify for dismissal, reduction, sealing, or another record-clearing option.
- No-cost initial review
- Local Bakersfield office
- Focused, confidential guidance
25+ yearscriminal law experience
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Focused revieweligibility depends on your case
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A practical second chance
Clearing a record can open doors—but California relief is not one-size-fits-all.
People commonly use the word “expungement,” but California law provides several different forms of relief. An eligible conviction may be reopened, set aside, and dismissed. Some felony convictions may be reduced. Certain arrests that did not lead to a conviction may be sealed.
The right approach depends on the charge, sentence, probation history, date of the case, and what has happened since. The first step is a careful review—not a promise.
Options we evaluate
What record-clearing relief may be available?
Every case is different. The firm can review your history and determine which California procedures may fit.
Felony reduction
Some “wobbler” felonies may qualify for reduction to a misdemeanor, depending on the offense, sentence, and court record.
Early probation termination
When appropriate, the court may be asked to terminate probation early before pursuing other post-conviction relief.
Arrest record sealing
Certain arrests that did not result in a conviction may qualify to be sealed from public view under California law.
Clean Slate review
California’s newer automatic record-relief laws may help in some cases, while a separate court petition may provide additional benefits.
Not sure where you fit?
You do not need to know the legal procedure. Share what you know about the case and let the firm identify the possible route.
Request a reviewA clear process
From old case to informed next step.
Record-clearing cases can involve old court files, multiple agencies, and eligibility rules that have changed over time. The process begins by identifying the exact conviction or arrest history.
Speak with the firm-
1
Review the record
We gather the basic facts, court location, charges, sentence, probation status, and your reason for seeking relief.
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2
Identify available relief
The firm evaluates dismissal, reduction, sealing, early termination, or other possible record-cleaning procedures.
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3
Prepare and file
When retained, the firm prepares the appropriate petition and supporting material and files it with the proper court.
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4
Follow through
The firm tracks the matter, responds to court requirements, and represents you when a hearing or further advocacy is needed.
Mark Anthony Raimondo
Bakersfield criminal defense attorney
Local counsel. Focused advocacy.
Experience matters when the details of an old case determine what happens next.
Attorney Mark Anthony Raimondo has practiced criminal law in Bakersfield for more than 25 years. His firm represents clients in criminal matters and post-conviction record-clearing proceedings.
This focused website makes it easier to start one conversation: what can be done about your record now?
“The first question is not whether you want a fresh start. It is which legal path gives your case the strongest chance to move forward.”
Common questions
California expungement FAQ
General information only. A review of the actual case is required for legal advice.
Does an expungement completely erase my record?
Not necessarily. In California, a dismissal generally sets aside the plea or finding and dismisses the case, but it does not physically destroy every record or eliminate every legal consequence. The effect depends on the type of relief and the purpose for which the record is being checked.
Can a felony be expunged or reduced?
Some felony convictions may qualify for dismissal, and certain offenses may also qualify to be reduced to misdemeanors. Eligibility depends on the offense, sentence, probation history, and current law.
What if I violated probation?
A probation violation does not always end the analysis. Some petitions are discretionary, which means the court may consider the full history and whether granting relief serves the interests of justice.
Can an arrest be sealed if I was never convicted?
Often, yes. California has procedures for sealing certain arrests when no charges were filed, charges were dismissed, diversion was completed, or the person was acquitted. Exceptions and disclosure rules can still apply.
How long does the process take?
Timing varies by court, the age and complexity of the case, whether records must be obtained, whether the prosecutor objects, and whether a hearing is required. The firm can provide a more useful estimate after reviewing the case.
Will I have to go to court?
Not in every case. Some petitions may be decided on the filings, while others can require a hearing or personal appearance. The firm will explain what is likely in your matter.
Your case deserves a real answer
Find out what relief may be available.
Call the Bakersfield office or send a confidential request today.