As of 2025, California has significantly expanded its legal framework surrounding expungement and record sealing—granting many residents new opportunities to clear their criminal past and reclaim opportunities in employment, housing, education, and professional licensing. In this blog, Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan will explore these transformative changes, guide individuals through the nuances of newer laws like SB 731 and Proposition 47, and show how our services can support clients throughout the process.
What Are the Key New Expungement Laws in California?
Senate Bill 731 — Expanded Automatic Relief (“Clean Slate”)
SB 731, often referred to as the “Clean Slate Act,” went into effect on October 1, 2024. It provides for broader relief through automatic expungement or dismissal of many arrest and conviction records. Among its key provisions:
- Dismisses certain drug-related convictions older than five years, preventing them from impacting teaching credentials or other certifications.
- Grants relief for arrests that didn’t lead to prosecution within a year.
- Allows petitions to expunge convictions for those who didn’t complete probation but have served all parts of their sentences, after four years.
- Bars the Department of Justice from sharing conviction records older than five years if relief was granted. (Californians for Safety and Justice, backgroundsonline.com).
Impact: Millions of Californians are newly eligible to have old records sealed or dismissed—opening doors previously closed by outdated criminal histories. SB 731 addresses a staggering economic drain through lost workforce potential, estimated at around $20 billion per year statewide. (Californians for Safety and Justice)
Proposition 47 — Reduction of Felonies to Misdemeanors
Under Proposition 47, individuals with certain non-violent or low-level felony convictions (primarily for drug possession or theft under $950) may petition to have them reclassified as misdemeanors. As of October 8, 2023, there is no filing deadline, allowing anyone to apply anytime. (Self-Help Guide to the California Courts)
This reduces barriers to employment, education, and housing by lessening the weight of prior convictions.
Other Relief Pathways and Upcoming Changes
Penal Code Section 1203.4 and Certificate of Rehabilitation (COR)
California still allows individuals to petition under PC 1203.4 to withdraw guilty pleas and have convictions set aside once they’ve completed probation or their sentence. While not sealing the record, it can allow people to lawfully say they’ve never been convicted in most private contexts. (Californians for Safety and Justice, Kraut Law Group)
When more robust relief is needed, one may seek a Certificate of Rehabilitation (COR). After a waiting period (often five years post sentence), a COR can lead to a pardon, restoring rights such as voting but not automatically sealing records or restoring firearms rights. (Collateral Consequences Resource Center)
Proposed Attorney Discipline Expungement
Though not applicable to the general public, the State Bar of California has approved a rule to automatically expunge attorney disciplinary records (non-disbarment) after eight years—pending final approval by the California Supreme Court. (California State Bar)
Why These Changes Matter to You
Economic & Social Opportunity Restored
California loses billions each year due to underemployment caused by criminal histories. By clearing these barriers, SB 731 helps individuals re-enter the workforce, boosting not only their own lives but the state economy. (Californians for Safety and Justice)
Limits and Caveats You Should Know
These relief measures do not erase records for all purposes. For example:
- Immigration authorities may still view expunged convictions as valid, impacting immigration relief or naturalization. (Immigrant Legal Resource Center)
- Expunged or set-aside convictions may still appear on federal background checks or influence future sentencing. (Sacramento Superior Court)
Therefore, knowing what each relief method practically achieves is essential.
How Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan Supports You
As legal relief expands, understanding what relief best fits your circumstances can be complex. That’s where Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan comes in.
- We offer LiveScan fingerprinting—a crucial first step in generating your criminal record for review.
- Our mobile notary services ensure you complete and notarize necessary petitions (PC 1203.4, Prop 47 petitions, SB 731 relief forms) from the comfort of your home or workplace.
- We collaborate closely with trusted legal professionals who can guide you through complex petitions or appeals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the difference between SB 731 relief, Proposition 47, and PC 1203.4?
SB 731 offers automatic or petition-based relief for old drug convictions, dismissed arrests, and certain felony convictions after sentence completion. Prop 47 allows petitioning to reduce specific felonies to misdemeanors. PC 1203.4 allows a court to set aside a conviction after completing probation or sentence—useful when other relief isn’t available.
Q2: Can these clearances remove records from immigration or federal checks?
No. Immigration entities and federal agencies may still consider expunged convictions as valid. Expungement may not shield you in those contexts. (perlmancohen.com, Californians for Safety and Justice, Sacramento Superior Court)
Q3: Does expungement restore voting or firearm rights?
Not necessarily. For firearm rights, setting aside a conviction doesn’t restore them; a Certificate of Rehabilitation or pardon may be needed. Voting rights typically return after sentence completion, depending on parole status. (Collateral Consequences Resource Center)
Q4: How do I start the process with Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan?
Contact us to schedule a LiveScan fingerprinting session and mobile notary appointment. We’ll assist with forms and advise whether SB 731, Prop 47, or PC 1203.4 is most suitable.
Q5: Is there a deadline to apply for Prop 47 relief?
No—Prop 47 relief now has no deadline as of October 8, 2023. (Self-Help Guide to the California Courts)
Conclusion
California’s progressive reforms like SB 731 (“Clean Slate Act”) and Proposition 47 are game-changers—opening real second chances for many. While complexities remain—especially for immigration or reinstating rights—these laws mark a major shift toward rehabilitation and social reintegration.
Anshin Mobile Notary and LiveScan stands ready to help Californians navigate these options—offering convenient fingerprinting and notary services that simplify the application process. If you’re ready to take the first step toward clearing your record, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Also Read: Professional Fingerprinting Services in Los Angeles
