Clearing your record in Fresno County

Here's how to get record clearance in Fresno County

1. On the Fresno County website, fill out a form that will ask you a few questions about yourself and your Fresno record and send it to the Public Defender

   At this point you need to submit the PDF application to the Fresno Public Defender but soon you will be able to submit the application directly on the website. You do not need to contact the Public Defender, you merely need to complete the application. This application will be the only document you need to submit to begin the process. The Public Defender will use the information on the application to conduct our research. On occasion, they may ask the applicant to obtain their DOJ records if we need to clarify what is on your conviction history. Once the Public Defender determines your eligibility, they will contact them either by phone or by email to set an appointment to work on their petition(s). There is no income limitations at this time. 

   Contacting the Public Defender is safe and confidential. They are not part of law enforcement and will not share your information with anyone. We know it can be difficult to talk about your conviction history, but the Public Defender will only use this information to move your record clearance application forward.

2. The Public Defender will contact you by phone or email

   The Public Defender will contact you within 2-6 weeks to let you know if you are eligible. If you do not hear back from the Public Defender within 2-6 weeks, reach back out to them to check on your case’s progress. The Public Defender will start the process of getting your full CA DOJ RAP sheet to see all your cases. They may also ask you to submit a personal statement or letters of recommendation.

3. Work with The Public Defender to complete your request

   If you are eligible, attorneys will help you put together a petition which you can send to the court to clear your record. Your public defender will update you with the final decision and official documents. You may have to go to court, but the public defender will let you know if you have to attend the court hearing.

4. Submit application and fees to the court and receive decision

   In Fresno County, if your petition is accepted, you may need to pay fees to the court per petition in order to have your record fully cleared, but most folks are eligible for a fee waiver. The Public Defender can help you apply for a fee waiver if you meet the requirements.

5. Wait 90 days for the court and Department of Justice (DOJ) record to be updated

   If your petition is accepted, you will have to wait at least 90 days after the petition was granted for changes to be reflected on your DOJ RAP sheet. If you want to see if your record has been fully updated, you can get a copy of your CA DOJ RAP sheet or your local court records by going to the courthouse. If you are still having trouble with cases showing up, contact the public defender for assistance. You can also read more about what happens after clearance.