Expungement Services in Fullerton, CA

As of July 1, 2024, California’s Senate Bill 731 has expanded who qualifies for record sealing across the state, including residents of Fullerton. Many nonviolent, nonserious felony convictions — excluding sexual offenses — may now be automatically sealed, even for those who served time in state prison. For more complex cases, individuals can still petition the court for relief. The Department of Justice now reviews eligible cases monthly for potential sealing.

It’s important to remember that expungement doesn’t erase your past completely. In most cases, your conviction will no longer appear on standard background checks for employment or housing in Fullerton, but law enforcement and certain government agencies may still have access to your record. This typically applies to roles requiring advanced background checks or when an investigation is ongoing.

Certain convictions cannot be expunged under California law. For Fullerton residents, ineligible offenses typically include:

• Murder or attempted murder

• Voluntary or involuntary manslaughter

• Serious sexual offenses (such as rape or possession of child pornography)

• Violent crimes restricted by statute

• Some domestic violence cases

• Felonies committed while on probation

• Certain traffic-related violations

Even if your conviction doesn’t qualify for expungement, other legal remedies may still be available depending on your specific circumstances.

The total cost of clearing your record in California varies by county and case details. For Fullerton residents, typical expenses may include:

• Court filing fees – Around $150 for felonies and $60 for misdemeanors, depending on the county.

• Attorney fees – Often range from $900–$1,200, depending on case complexity and felony reductions.

• Bundled services – Some providers combine expungement with probation termination or felony reduction services for a single package price.

At Laguna Legal, we offer transparent, affordable pricing so you can get the help you need without paying excessive legal fees.

Most expungement cases in California are completed within 10 to 16 weeks. For Fullerton residents, timelines vary depending on the Orange County court’s calendar and whether your case requires a judge’s hearing. If additional motions are filed, processing times may extend slightly.

Once your expungement is approved in Fullerton, it is generally permanent and cannot be reversed. The only exceptions occur in rare cases where new criminal charges are filed, which may prompt the court to reopen or review the sealed record.

Having a professional guide you through the process can make expungement much smoother. A qualified expert can:

• Ensure all forms are accurate and properly filed

• Handle the court process so you don’t have to

• Represent you if a hearing is required

• Improve your likelihood of approval

Professionals familiar with the Orange County court system understand how to navigate delays and potential challenges, helping your case move forward efficiently.