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If You Need to Clear or Dismiss a Criminal Record in San Diego County
You made a mistake. You paid for it. Do not let it follow you forever. Call or text Jason Ronis Law for a free, private look at your record and your options.
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General information only. Not legal advice or a promise of a result. Call or text for a real review of your case.
By Jason Ronis, Criminal Defense Attorney · CA Bar #229628Updated November 2026
To clear or dismiss a criminal record in San Diego County, most people file a petition with the San Diego Superior Court under Penal Code 1203.4, 1203.4a, or 1203.41. Some can also reduce a felony to a misdemeanor or seal an arrest. A dismissal can help with jobs, housing, and licenses. Call or text Jason Ronis Law at (619) 859-2002 for a free review.
Is Your Criminal Record Holding You Back?
You are not the worst thing you ever did. But one old case can still cost you a job offer, an apartment, a license, or your peace of mind. You may be tired of checking the box and explaining yourself. You do not have to live that way. In many cases, California law gives you a way to move forward.
Want a better job?
Background checks turn good interviews into “we went another way.”
Need a place to live?
Landlords check records. A dismissal can open doors that stayed shut.
Want a license or school?
Nursing, real estate, security, teaching, and more all ask about your past.
Tired of explaining?
You should not have to relive one mistake in every application.
Planning big moves?
Travel, adoption, and volunteering can all be affected by a record.
Ready for a fresh start?
You did the time and the work. It is time to turn the page.
Ready for a Fresh Start? Call or Text Today.
A real attorney. Free and private. Day or night.
Your Options to Clear or Dismiss a Criminal Record in San Diego County
There is more than one way to clean up a record. The right one depends on your charge, your sentence, and your goal. We look at all of them for you.
Dismissal (“expungement”)
Ask the judge to set aside your conviction after you finish probation or your sentence.
Felony reduced to misdemeanor
Lower the charge itself, which can help with jobs, housing, and future penalties.
Automatic relief check
See if the state already cleared your case, and fix it if it did not.
Early end of probation
Ask the court to end probation early so you can move on sooner.
Sealing an arrest
For arrests that did not lead to a conviction, ask to seal or clear the record.
Certificate of rehabilitation
A court finding of rehabilitation that can help with licenses and trust.
PC means California Penal Code. Laws change and every case is different. Call or text for advice on your record.
What a Dismissal Does and Does Not Do
We believe in plain talk. Here is what to expect so there are no surprises.
✓ What it can do
- Your case is set aside and you can say “not convicted” on most job applications
- Most employers cannot ask about or use a dismissed conviction
- Can help with housing, school, and many licenses
- Gives you a court order you can show
- Can come with a felony reduced to a misdemeanor
✕ What it does not do
- Does not erase the case from every database
- Does not restore gun rights on its own
- Does not erase restitution you owe
- Does not remove sex offender registration
- Does not always fix immigration problems
- Some government and law enforcement jobs can still see it
How We Clear a Record: 4 Simple Steps
- 1
Free consultation
Call or text. A real attorney asks what happened and what you want, like a new job or license.
- 2
We pull and review your record
We read your case, your sentence, and what you finished, then tell you your options.
- 3
We prepare and file
We handle the petition and paperwork with the San Diego Superior Court.
- 4
Hearing and order
If a judge needs to hear it, we go with you. Then you get your court order.
Wondering If You Qualify? Just Ask.
Text us your question. A real attorney will reply.
Who May Qualify to Clear a Record in San Diego County?
- You finished probation with no new problems.
- You finished your sentence and have no case pending.
- You have a felony “wobbler” that might be reduced to a misdemeanor.
- You were arrested but never convicted.
- You want a job, license, school, or housing and your record is in the way.
- You are not sure. That is the best reason to call. We will pull your record.
Areas We Serve
Rated 5.0 by Clients Who Wanted a Better Tomorrow
Real Google reviews of Jason Ronis Law.
“He communicated clearly, guided me through every step, and fought hard to get me the best possible outcome. I felt supported, informed, and never judged.”
Leah A.Google review“He is the lawyer you want on your side — relentless, strategic, and genuinely invested in achieving the best results.”
Ethan C.Google review“Jason and his team followed up extremely well during my whole process. He is very communicative and explored anything that I brought up.”
Jenny G.Google reviewReviews are from past clients. Every case is different. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Clearing a Criminal Record in San Diego County: Frequently Asked Questions
Short answers to what people ask us most.
How do I clear or dismiss a criminal record in San Diego County?
Most people file a petition in the San Diego Superior Court asking the judge to dismiss the conviction under Penal Code 1203.4, 1203.4a, or 1203.41. Some people also qualify to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor or to get automatic relief. Call or text Jason Ronis Law and we will check which path fits your case.
What is the difference between expungement and dismissal in California?
In California, “expungement” usually means a judge dismisses your conviction after you finish your sentence. Your case is set aside and you can say you were not convicted on most job applications. It is not a full erasure. The case can still show on your record with a dismissal note.
Who qualifies to dismiss a criminal conviction in California?
Many people who finished probation, or finished a sentence and have no new case pending, qualify. Misdemeanors, felonies, and some prison cases can be eligible. Some serious sex offenses cannot be dismissed. Eligibility depends on your sentence, record, and facts, so call for a free review.
Can a felony be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Sometimes. If your felony is a “wobbler,” a judge can reduce it to a misdemeanor under Penal Code 17(b). Certain theft and drug possession cases may also qualify under Proposition 47. Reduction can lower penalties and help with jobs and housing.
Will my record be cleared automatically?
California now clears some older cases automatically, but it can miss cases, and serious or violent offenses are excluded. Do not wait and hope. A court order gives you clear proof, and we can check where your case stands.
Can I get a better job after my record is dismissed?
Often, yes. After a dismissal, most employers cannot ask about or use a dismissed conviction. Some jobs, licenses, and government roles can still see it. We will tell you how it applies to the job or license you want.
Does dismissal restore my gun rights or remove sex offender registration?
No. A dismissal does not automatically restore firearm rights, erase restitution, or end a registration requirement. Other steps may help with those issues, so ask us before you file.
Can I clear my record if I am not a U.S. citizen?
A state dismissal does not always remove immigration consequences of a conviction. Talk to an attorney before filing, and tell us your status so we can protect you.
What if I was arrested but never convicted?
You may have options to seal or clear the arrest, and in some cases to ask for a finding of factual innocence. Call or text us and we will check your record.
How long does it take to clear a criminal record in San Diego?
It depends on the court, the prosecutor’s response, and whether a hearing is needed. We will give you a realistic timeline after we review your record. The sooner we file, the sooner you can move forward.
How much does it cost to talk to a lawyer about clearing my record?
The first consultation is free and private. If you hire us, payment plans are available.
Do you speak Spanish?
Sí. Se habla español. Call or text (619) 859-2002.
Your Past Does Not Have to Hold You Back. Call Today.
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Jason Ronis Law | San Diego Criminal & DUI Attorney
105 F St THIRD FLOOR, San Diego, CA 92101
We stand by your side in State and Federal courts, delivering proven results and round-the-clock emergency legal assistance.
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