Is a dismissal in California the same as an expungement?
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Is a dismissal in California the same as an expungement?
I had a criminal offense from years ago dismissed under PC 1203.4 and I’m
wondering if it is the same as it be expunged? Will it still show up on a
background check? Even one provided by the FBI?
Asked on November 14, 2018 under Criminal Law, Texas
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 5 years ago | Contributor
Dismissal is NOT expungement. Dismissal means that the charges were dismissed, you were not convicted, and you were not punished--but the fact that cases were initially brought against you will still show up in a background check. Expungement means that a case is erased like it never existed; only if a case is expunged will not appear on a background check. You should contact a criminal defense attorney to inquire into whether you can expunge this charge; if you can, the lawyer can help you do it.
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