San Diego Expungements & Reductions Lawyer
A criminal conviction doesn’t have to follow you for the rest of your life. In California, many people with past convictions are eligible to clean up their records and move forward through expungement or felony reduction. These legal remedies can restore opportunities that were lost due to a criminal case—like employment, housing, licensing, or simply peace of mind.
At the Law Office of Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq., our San Diego expungements & reductions lawyer helps people across San Diego County navigate the post-conviction relief process with clarity and confidence. Whether you’re looking to expunge a misdemeanor or reduce a felony to a misdemeanor under California Penal Code § 17(b), Anthony will assess your case and fight to give you the second chance you deserve.
What Is an Expungement?
Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, an expungement allows you to withdraw a guilty or no-contest plea, have the conviction dismissed, and update your record to show the case as dismissed “in the interests of justice.” It does not erase the conviction, but it does lift many of the burdens that come with having a criminal record.
Once a case is expunged, you can legally answer “no” when asked if you’ve been convicted of a crime in most private employment applications. It can also help with housing, professional licenses, and your general reputation. If you’re ready to put a past mistake behind you, an expungement may be the right step.
Who Is Eligible for Expungement in California?
You may be eligible to expunge a conviction if:
- You were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony in state court,
- You successfully completed probation, or in some cases were granted early termination, and
- You are not currently charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for another offense.
Even if you didn’t receive probation, you might still qualify for expungement after a waiting period and completion of all court-ordered requirements.
Not all offenses are eligible for expungement—particularly certain serious sex crimes involving children—but many are. Anthony Vargas will review your record carefully and explain your options in plain language. If you’re eligible, he’ll prepare and file a thorough petition and advocate for you in court if a hearing is required.
Reducing a Felony to a Misdemeanor: California Penal Code § 17(b)
Some felonies in California are known as wobblers, meaning they can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the facts of the case and the discretion of the court. If you were convicted of a wobbler felony and granted probation, you may be able to petition to have the felony reduced to a misdemeanor under Penal Code § 17(b).
This reduction carries significant benefits, such as the following:
- You’ll no longer have a felony on your record
- You may restore certain rights, such as the right to possess firearms (depending on the offense)
- A misdemeanor conviction is generally far less damaging to job or housing applications
- You may be eligible for expungement afterward
Anthony can help determine whether your felony is a wobbler and whether you meet the criteria for reduction. If so, he’ll build a compelling case to show the court why a misdemeanor designation better fits your circumstances.
Expungement vs. Reduction: Which One Should You Pursue?
In many cases, both options are available. For example, if you were convicted of a felony wobbler, you might first reduce it to a misdemeanor under PC § 17(b), then expunge the misdemeanor under PC § 1203.4. The result? A record that reflects a dismissed misdemeanor rather than an unreduced felony conviction.
Anthony will walk you through each step, explain what’s possible based on your case history, and help you choose the best strategy for cleaning up your record.
Why Clearing Your Record Matters
A criminal conviction can hold you back in countless ways—even years after you’ve paid your dues. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards often run background checks. Even dating, parenting, or applying for loans can be affected by a criminal record.
Post-conviction relief offers a way to reclaim control over your narrative. It shows you’ve taken responsibility and moved forward. It allows you to seek work, housing, or professional growth without the shadow of a conviction getting in the way. And sometimes, it just gives you a sense of dignity and closure.
Anthony Vargas understands the very real impact a conviction can have on your life. As a former Public Defender, he’s represented people at all stages of the criminal justice process—including long after the case is over. He believes in second chances and fights hard to help clients get the fresh start they’ve earned.
What About More Serious Cases?
Some convictions—such as those that led to prison time—aren’t eligible for traditional expungement. However, other forms of post-conviction relief may still be available, including:
- Certificates of Rehabilitation
- Governor’s Pardon
- Record sealing (for arrests or dismissed charges)
- Early termination of probation
Anthony takes the time to understand your full history and advise you on every possible avenue. If one option isn’t available, he’ll look for another.
Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate
If you’re ready to move on from a past conviction, the Law Office of Anthony Z. Vargas, Esq. is here to help. We serve clients throughout San Diego County and appear regularly in courthouses in San Diego, Vista, El Cajon, and Chula Vista.
Call our San Diego expungement & reductions attorney today to discuss your options. Anthony will review your record, explain your eligibility, and guide you through the expungement or reduction process with skill, compassion, and professionalism. The past doesn’t have to define your future—and with the right advocate in your corner, you can take the next step forward.