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Felony Reduction
Many offenses can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor. A felony is more
serious than a misdemeanor. If you were convicted of the felony version, you may petition
the court to reduce the severity to a misdemeanor. Generally, the court wants to see you
have paid restitution and a significant period of time has elapsed since the conviction.
Some offenses, especially certain sex and drug offenses, exist only as felonies and cannot
be reduced.
Additional Options
An Adult Record Seal provides for the destruction of any arrest record for a crime for
which you were ultimately not charged or found not guilty. Current or future employers will
not be able to see any record of the arrest.
A Governor 's Pardon or Gubernatorial Pardon is an honor granted to people who have
demonstrated exemplary behavior following their conviction. Individuals who have been
convicted of a crime in California may apply to the Governor for a gubernatorial pardon.
1. Get a blank petition and order from the court clerk, Room 102 of the main court
house, or download from the internet
2. Fill out the petition and order
3. Attach supporting documentation
4. Make five copies of all the above
5. File all six packets (original and five copies) with court clerk, Room 102; pay filing fee
(include a self-addressed, stamped envelope)
6. For felonies, appear in court on the appointed date/time; for misdemeanors, the
court will contact you by mail
7. You do not need to contact Probation
Key Considerations
Victim restitution is paid in full (if ordered)
Fines and fees are paid in full
Classes are completed (if ordered)
Community service work is done (if ordered)
Include proof of all the above
No new convictions
No pending court cases
No warrants
Q&A
Can I file for expungement while I am still on probation?
Yes, but you will have to file a petition for early termination of probation at the same
time.
What if I have more than one conviction? Do I have to file petitions one
at a time?
You can file them all at the same time.
Do I need a lawyer?
No, but you may hire one if you wish.
If you believe you have good reason for the judge to grant your petition, you may
contact his or her clerk and seek a “reconsideration." Be prepared to support your
argument.
Resources
Petitions and filing:
Sacramento County Courthouse
720 9th Street, Room 102
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 874-5744
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