Walk It Through: The Old Conviction
A misdemeanor four years back, a DUI that needs five, and a petition to the convicting court.
A job application asks about convictions. Four years ago, the applicant finished probation on a misdemeanor theft.
Two things a person in this spot might do. Picking one shows what the law says about it.
Ordinary convictions with the sentence done. Juvenile records, a diversion still in progress, and the restoration of gun rights are left out.
A practice walkthrough, not a prediction of how any real one will go. Legal information, not legal advice.
Words this turns on
Terms with a legal meaning that is narrower than the everyday one. Each links to the definition and the authority behind it.
- DiversionAn agreement in place of further prosecution; once its terms are fulfilled, it and its arrest records may be expunged after three or more years.
- ExpungementA court order clearing a conviction and its arrest records, petitioned for three or more years after a misdemeanor sentence is satisfied, and longer after a higher felony or a DUI.
- Traffic infractionA violation paid on the uniform fine schedule, which may be settled before the court date by a written appearance, a plea of guilty or no contest, and payment of the fine and court costs.