Why expungement?

---

1. Employment opportunities: Many employers conduct background checks, and having a misdemeanor on your record could potentially limit your job prospects. Expungement can help remove this barrier and improve your chances of securing employment.
2. Professional licenses and certifications: Certain professions require licenses or certifications that may be affected by a misdemeanor conviction. Expunging the misdemeanor can help protect your professional standing and ensure eligibility for licenses or certifications.
3. Housing and rental applications: Landlords often perform background checks on prospective tenants. A misdemeanor on your record could make it challenging to secure housing. Expunging the misdemeanor can increase your chances of finding suitable housing.
4. Educational opportunities: Some colleges, universities, or scholarship programs may assess an applicant's criminal record. Expunging a misdemeanor can prevent it from negatively influencing your educational opportunities.
5. Personal and emotional well-being: Expunging a misdemeanor can provide a sense of closure and allow you to move forward from past mistakes. It can also help alleviate the social stigma associated with a criminal record, enabling you to rebuild your life more easily.

The short answer is, YES. Fortunately, the Canadian government does honor and respect California expungement law. Thus, if you get your DUI conviction expunged, you will typically be able to cross the border into Canada. It is a good idea to wait at least 30-60 days after expungement before you attempt to cross the border. It is also a good idea to bring along a copy of the signed expungement order from the court to show to the Canadian officials at the border.