can I get my felony arson dropped or reduced?
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can I get my felony arson dropped or reduced?
I was charged with setting a rubbish fire 6 years ago. I have been off probation 2 years now. I went to find a job only to find out I was really charged with a felony arson. No one will hire me. My whole life has been ruined because of one mistake? I can’t, no I don’t want to believe this. What can I do? I can’t pay my restitution and court fines with no job. I want this all behind me.Please help me!!
Asked on May 20, 2009 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 15 years ago | Contributor
Under California law, felony convictions can be expunged as long as the defendant did not serve a state prison sentence and successfully completed the terms of probation.
Basically, the requirements for expungement are:
- Probation must have been satisfactorily completed or, if not granted probation, one year must have passed since date of judgment.
- All court orders must have been obeyed.
- Defendant must have been free from subsequent offenses.
- Defendant must be living an honest and upright life.
- Other conditions may affect defendant's eligibility status.
Contact an attorney about this. Good luck.
J.M.A., Member in Good Standing of the Connecticut Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 15 years ago | Contributor
Unfortunately, this is the consequence of making mistakes in life and should deter people from committing crimes. I suggest that you contact you probation officer and ask if there are employers out there that hire people with criminal records to make a transition with their life. There are most likely groups and nonprofit companies that assit people coming out of jail or otherwise obtain jobs to get them back into the community - certainly these exist in CA. Try going on line as well. Once you complete your probation and this is behind you for more than 3 years, i suggest trying to get the change removed from your record - which you can do by filing certain papers (i.e. expungment). Good luck!
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