Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

I am applying for a Govt. job, and when asked re: convictions, pending cases or court martials, I said "none". I was charged w/ possession twenty years ago, but it was dismissed due to illegal search and siezure. (If a case is dismissed, is that different from an aquittal?) Exactly what do I need to disclose so I don't jeopardize my eligibility for employment? I am not sure what court documents I am expected to provide. I have been in absolutely no trouble since then. Is there any way to legally expunge any record of this

case? I only have 30 days to take care of this and don't know how to proceed. Any help would be greatly appreciated.


Asked on 4/06/10, 1:54 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Robert Marshall Law Office of Robert L, Marshall

An acquittal means a "not guilty" verdict at trial.

However, if your case was dismissed before trial, that's not a conviction. The case is not pending; it was closed long ago.

Just answer the question truthfully.

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Answered on 4/11/10, 2:35 pm
Edward Hoffman Law Offices of Edward A. Hoffman

A dismissal is not a conviction, a pending case or a court martial. If that's what the question asks, then you can truthfully answer "none".

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Answered on 4/11/10, 4:24 pm


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