How Long Does a Domestic Violence Case Stay on Your Record?

A domestic violence accusation is stressful, embarrassing, and potentially life-changing. But beyond the immediate arrest, restraining orders, and court dates, many people have one critical question: How long does a domestic violence case stay on your record in California?

The answer depends on the type of domestic violence charge, whether you were convicted, whether the case was dismissed, and whether you qualify for post-conviction relief. Because California treats domestic violence offenses seriously, the impact can follow you far longer than the court process itself.

At KN Law Firm, we help clients in Glendale, Los Angeles, and surrounding Southern California cities understand the consequences of domestic violence charges and explore every avenue to clear their record.

How Long Does a Domestic Violence Charge Stay on Your Record If You Were Arrested but Not Convicted?

If you were arrested but not convicted, the arrest will still show up on your criminal record and on most background checks — even if:

• The prosecutor rejected the case
• The charges were dismissed
• You were found “Not Guilty” at trial
• The case was dropped due to insufficient evidence

This is why many people are surprised to see “domestic violence arrest” appear when applying for jobs, housing, or professional licenses.

Can an arrest be removed from your record?

Yes. In 2022, California expanded eligibility for record sealing under Penal Code §851.91. This means many people can now seal their domestic violence arrest record permanently — as long as they were not convicted.

Once sealed, the arrest cannot be viewed by employers, landlords, or the public, although law enforcement may still access it.

How Long Does a Domestic Violence Conviction Stay on Your Record?

A domestic violence conviction in California is permanent unless you qualify for expungement or other post-conviction relief.

Misdemeanor Domestic Violence

Usually charged under:

• Penal Code 243(e)(1) – Domestic battery
• Penal Code 273.5 – Corporal injury to a spouse (wobbler)

A misdemeanor conviction stays on your record for life unless expunged. Even then, the expunged conviction is visible to law enforcement and may still affect gun rights.

Felony Domestic Violence

Felony domestic violence — often involving injuries or repeat accusations — stays on your record permanently. While some felonies may be reduced to misdemeanors or expunged later, not all domestic violence felonies qualify.

How long do employers see the conviction?

Indefinitely.

California law limits how employers use criminal histories, but it does not erase them automatically.

How Domestic Violence Convictions Affect Your Future

A domestic violence conviction can have long-term consequences, including:

• Loss of firearm rights
• Immigration problems (for non-citizens)
• Difficulty obtaining employment
• Barriers to professional licenses (nurses, teachers, security guards, real estate agents)
• Issues with child custody and visitation
• Permanent restraining order complications
• Housing challenges

Because of these life-altering consequences, it’s critical to fight domestic violence charges aggressively from the beginning.

Can a Domestic Violence Conviction Be Expunged in California?

✔ Misdemeanor domestic violence may be eligible for expungement

Under Penal Code 1203.4, you can apply for expungement if:

• You completed probation
• You did not violate probation (or the judge is willing to forgive the violation)
• You have no new pending charges

Expungement allows you to legally answer “No” when asked if you have been convicted of a crime (with some exceptions).

✔ Felony domestic violence may be expunged if reduced to a misdemeanor

If the felony is a “wobbler,” your lawyer may petition for:

1. Felony reduction to a misdemeanor (PC 17(b)), and then
2. Expungement under PC 1203.4

❌ Expungement does NOT restore gun rights

Once you lose gun rights due to domestic violence, they are difficult — sometimes impossible — to restore in California.

Does Domestic Violence Ever Drop Off Your Record Automatically?

No.
Criminal records in California do not automatically disappear, regardless of age.

A conviction from:

• 1 year ago
• 10 years ago
• 30 years ago

will remain visible until you take legal action to remove or seal it.

How Long Does a Domestic Violence Restraining Order Stay on Record?

A restraining order is separate from the criminal case. Even if the case is dismissed, a Domestic Violence Restraining Order (DVRO) can remain visible for:

• 5 years (standard)
• Up to 10 years (if the judge extends it)

A DVRO can appear in background checks and can significantly impact employment, custody, and firearm rights.

How KN Law Firm Helps Clear Your Record

At KN Law Firm, we assist clients with:

• Sealing domestic violence arrest records
• Expunging misdemeanor convictions
• Reducing felony domestic violence charges to misdemeanors
• Challenging restraining orders
• Filing motions to terminate probation early
• Developing strategies to protect immigration status

We fight aggressively because we know how much is at stake — your reputation, your job, your family, and your future.

Read Our Related Article

If you want to better understand age-related domestic violence charges, don’t miss our popular article:
“Can 17 and 18 Date in California? Understanding Legal Boundaries and Penalties.”

Need Help Removing a Domestic Violence Case From Your Record? Contact KN Law Firm

If you’re unsure how long a domestic violence case will affect you — or if you want to clean your record — our attorneys can help. KN Law Firm serves Glendale, Los Angeles, and all surrounding Southern California cities.

📞 Call 24/7: (888) 950-0011
📍 Glendale, CA – Free Consultations Available

You do not have to navigate this alone — let us protect your future.