Living with a felony conviction in Solano County can make it incredibly tough to move forward, even after you have completed your sentence and worked to turn your life around. Facing obstacles to employment, housing, and personal opportunities is frustrating and often discouraging. The expungement process provides a way to address some of these challenges, but understanding the specific ins and outs in Solano County matters. At Maas and Russo, we know every case is unique, and our commitment is to help you navigate the local process with the clarity and support you deserve.
Who Qualifies for Felony Expungement in Solano County?
Eligibility for felony expungement in Solano County depends on several key factors, including the type of offense, your criminal history, and how you completed your sentence. California Penal Code Section 1203.4 sets out the legal framework, but local judges look closely at your entire record before making a decision. If you completed probation for your felony and did not serve time in state prison, you potentially qualify to file for expungement. However, there are certain felony offenses, such as sex crimes involving children or serious violent felonies, that California law does not allow to be expunged—even if you finished probation or satisfied all terms of your sentence.
Judges in Solano County often weigh more than the original offense. Probation violations, unpaid restitution, or unresolved matters may impact your eligibility. Applicants with multiple convictions or a record of probation violations face a higher standard, but rehabilitation efforts—such as completion of educational programs, participation in substance abuse treatment, or steady employment—can help strengthen your petition. If you are unsure about your status, gathering all court records and reviewing your situation with a professional is the best way to understand your options.
Recent changes to California law have made expungement possible for more individuals, particularly for certain non-violent felonies and people who have stayed out of trouble for several years. However, each court evaluates claims individually, and being up to date on the latest legal reforms can make the difference when submitting your application. At Maas and Russo, we monitor these developments closely and help you determine your eligibility based on the most current local and state guidelines.
How Does the Felony Expungement Process Work in Solano County?
The felony expungement process in Solano County involves multiple detailed steps, and thorough preparation is key. First, you will need to request copies of your criminal case files from the court or local law enforcement agencies. This ensures you have all the necessary information to accurately fill out the required forms. Most applicants use Form CR-180 (Petition for Dismissal), along with supporting materials such as proof of completed probation, proof of restitution payments, and evidence of rehabilitation or positive community involvement.
After compiling your documents, file your petition with the Solano County Superior Court. In many cases, you are also required to notify the District Attorney’s Office and the probation department, giving them the opportunity to provide input or object to your request. The court will then schedule a hearing date. At the hearing, you or your attorney can present your case and any additional evidence that supports your rehabilitation and readiness for relief. Judges may ask detailed questions about your life since the conviction, so being ready to demonstrate your commitment to positive change goes a long way.
Missing deadlines or submitting incomplete paperwork can cause significant delays or outright denials. Many applicants find the process confusing, especially when questions arise about which forms apply to their unique situation or how to address prior violations. At Maas and Russo, we work side by side with you to gather the correct documentation, avoid common pitfalls, and present your application clearly and effectively in Solano County courts.
What Fees & Costs Should You Expect for Felony Expungement?
Pursuing expungement in Solano County involves several costs that go beyond just the court filing fee. Filing fees generally range from $120 to $150 per petition, and individuals with multiple cases must pay for each separate filing. In addition, there are charges for certified copies of court records or Department of Justice background checks required for your petition. These expenses can add up, particularly if you must address more than one felony conviction.
However, people facing financial hardship may qualify for a fee waiver by filling out and submitting the appropriate financial disclosure forms, such as the FW-001. Eligibility for a waiver is based on factors such as employment status, household income, and participation in public assistance programs like CalFresh or Medi-Cal. If your fee waiver is granted, you are not responsible for paying the standard court filing fees, making the process more accessible even when finances are tight.
Choosing to hire a criminal defense attorney to help with your expungement will result in additional legal fees. These fees often depend on the complexity of your case, the number of convictions to address, and whether your petition involves contested matters. Our team at Maas and Russo provides clear estimates up front and strives to find solutions that fit your budget, ensuring you understand exactly what to expect before the process begins.
Timeline: How Long Does Felony Expungement Take in Solano County?
The timeline for felony expungement in Solano County varies by case but usually ranges from two to four months, depending on several factors. Applicants with straightforward records, completed probation, and no additional legal issues typically move through the system more quickly than those with complex histories. Delays often arise if required documents are missing, if you submit incomplete information, or if the court’s schedule is particularly crowded.
After submitting your petition, the court must review your records, request feedback from the District Attorney or probation department, and schedule a hearing date. These steps can add weeks to the process depending on the court backlog at the time you apply. Once the hearing is held and the judge makes a decision, it may still take several more weeks for your record to be updated in background check databases or for you to receive written notice of the outcome.
Staying organized and following up on your application can help avoid unnecessary delays. At Maas and Russo, we keep clients informed about expected processing times, provide guidance on what to do during each stage, and help troubleshoot any issues that come up while waiting for a decision from Solano County courts.
What Happens If the Court Denies Your Felony Expungement Petition?
Felony expungement petitions in Solano County may be denied for several reasons. The most common reasons are ineligibility due to the nature of the offense, incomplete or inaccurate paperwork, unpaid restitution, or evidence that you violated probation. When a judge denies your request, the court will issue a written explanation that explains why your petition was unsuccessful. This information is crucial, as it allows you to understand what needs to change before you submit a new application or take further action.
If denied, applicants have several options. Correcting administrative errors or gathering missing documentation allows you to refile your petition. In more difficult cases, you may need to appeal the decision to a higher court or file a motion for reconsideration. Addressing the reasons cited in the denial—such as showing more evidence of rehabilitation or clarifying your eligibility—gives you a better chance the second time around. If you are not sure why your application was rejected, reviewing the decision with an attorney can provide much-needed clarity and direction.
The team at Maas and Russo regularly assists individuals who have experienced denials, working to collect stronger evidence, revise applications, and prepare for new hearings if needed. With our support, we empower our clients to keep pursuing relief and to fully understand the process so they can make informed decisions about their future.
Does Expungement Restore Gun Rights, Voting Rights, or Professional Licenses?
Getting a felony expunged in Solano County removes many obstacles, but it does not restore every right. An expungement under Penal Code 1203.4 typically allows you to answer “no” when asked if you have a conviction on most job or rental applications, except when applying for government work or positions that require state licensing. However, expungement does not automatically restore your right to own or possess firearms if you lost that right because of your conviction. Firearms restoration usually requires a separate legal process, such as a Certificate of Rehabilitation or a pardon, both of which have stricter standards and longer requirements.
Voting rights are another area where expungement may not be necessary. Most Californians regain the right to vote once they complete their sentence and parole, regardless of whether they pursue expungement. Still, some confusion remains, so we encourage checking your status before registering to vote. For those seeking professional licenses, expungement improves the outlook but does not erase all requirements. Licensing boards may still ask for disclosure of all convictions, even those dismissed by expungement, especially in sensitive fields like health care or education.
Understanding what expungement does and does not provide is critical to making informed choices about your future. At Maas and Russo, we discuss these issues openly with each client, helping you plan additional steps—where needed—to restore full civil rights or pursue advanced career opportunities.
How Will Expungement Affect Background Checks, Job Applications, & Housing?
Clearing a felony through expungement in Solano County usually leads to much better opportunities in the job and housing markets. After expungement, your record may still appear on background checks, but it will show the conviction as “dismissed.” For most private employers, landlords, and local agencies, this allows you to state that you have no felony convictions. However, government employers or jobs that require professional licensing may still require you to disclose expunged convictions. Understanding when and how to answer record questions is critical for success.
Some organizations, especially those hiring for schools, law enforcement, or healthcare, conduct thorough checks and may ask you to explain your whole criminal history. Even so, dismissals carry significant weight in showing your rehabilitation. Providing a brief, honest statement about your case and your steps since the conviction often reassures employers or landlords and can lead to better outcomes.
Once your expungement is granted, make sure to run your own background check to confirm the update has been processed everywhere. Occasionally, background check companies miss court updates, which can cause unnecessary complications or rejections. At Maas and Russo, we walk you through each step to confirm your updates, correct mistakes with background check firms, and help you approach new opportunities with confidence and peace of mind.
Special Considerations for Non-Citizens & Immigration Status When Expunging Felonies
Expungement’s benefits are significant for many, but if you are not a U.S. citizen, the process requires extra caution. The federal immigration system does not always recognize expunged convictions under California law, which means that even after your record is dismissed, immigration authorities may still consider it as part of your criminal history. This can impact your eligibility for visas, green cards, citizenship, or even lead to deportation proceedings in certain cases.
If you are facing immigration concerns and considering expungement, consult with a criminal defense attorney who understands both the state and federal systems. Filing for relief without accounting for federal laws may have negative, unintended consequences on your case. Sometimes, more advanced forms of post-conviction relief—such as vacating a conviction on specific legal grounds—are necessary instead of or in addition to expungement. Before filing, review your options with someone knowledgeable about how state relief interacts with U.S. immigration law.
At Maas and Russo, we consistently work with clients who need immigration-sensitive legal strategies. Our approach is always to clarify risks, explain your choices in plain language, and make sure you understand the long-term impact of each decision. Whether you are seeking to protect your family, your legal status, or your career, we are here to help you choose the safest path forward.
Should You File for Felony Expungement on Your Own or Work with a Lawyer?
Solano County’s courts provide resources for people who want to file for expungement without a lawyer, including detailed instructions, forms, and access to self-help centers. Those with straightforward, single-offense cases and completed probation often succeed on their own. However, the process can feel overwhelming when facing questions about eligibility, complex legal terminology, or unexpected issues—especially for applicants with multiple convictions or a denial in their history.
A criminal defense attorney can make a big difference for those with complicated records, prior violations, or who simply want peace of mind throughout the process. An attorney helps you gather all required records, prepares clear arguments for the court, and identifies any issues before they become obstacles. Legal support is especially valuable if you face immigration issues, need to appeal a denial, or want to pursue additional forms of relief not available through standard expungement.
At Maas and Russo, we work with clients at every stage—from reviewing your case for eligibility to preparing paperwork and representing you in front of local judges. Our commitment is to provide honest, straightforward guidance that empowers you to make the best choices for your future, and to support you throughout one of life’s most transformative legal processes.
Resources & Legal Support for Felony Expungement in Solano County
Solano County offers important resources for those seeking juvenile crimes felony expungement. The Superior Court’s self-help center provides detailed instructions and forms, and public defenders or local legal aid organizations assist those who financially qualify. These services offer a solid starting point for basic cases and support community members who need help with legal paperwork or procedural questions.
For individuals with more complicated backgrounds, time-sensitive needs, or questions about immigration or professional licensing, private attorneys with in-depth knowledge of Solano County’s courts can be invaluable. At Maas and Russo, our attorneys stay on top of ongoing changes in California expungement law and know what local judges, prosecutors, and agencies look for in a strong petition. We are proud to offer not only legal skill but also genuine support to individuals facing challenging circumstances as they work to clear their records.
If you are considering expungement or are unsure about the best way to proceed, Contact us online at Maas and Russo. Taking the next step to clear your record starts with knowledgeable advice and a practical conversation. Contact us at (800) 483-0992 to review your options and move forward with the support you need to reclaim your future.