A domestic violence charge does show on a background check in California, whether it results in a conviction or not. Even charges that have been dropped or dismissed can appear in your criminal history unless they are sealed or expunged.
If you are concerned about the information showing up on your record, our Oakland domestic violence lawyer will go over your options with you and discuss how we can help you protect your future. You can start with a free consultation today.
Why Background Checks Matter for Domestic Violence Charges
If you or a loved one is facing a domestic violence charge in California, it’s important to understand the consequences beyond the courtroom. A domestic violence arrest—even without a conviction—can affect where you live, how others see you, and your overall reputation.
An Oakland criminal defense lawyer from our team understands the high stakes involved and will carefully review your case, identifying ways to reduce or eliminate its long-term consequences.
For a free legal consultation, call (510) 995-0000
How Our Domestic Violence Abuse Lawyer Can Help You
Every domestic violence case is different. Whether you are dealing with a misunderstanding, false accusation, or a heated moment that escalated, our team will handle your legal matter with compassion and discretion.
Our attorney will help by:
- Investigating all evidence, not just what the police report includes.
- Protecting your rights during interviews and court hearings.
- Negotiating with prosecutors when appropriate.
- Fighting for a dismissal or reduction in charges.
- Exploring options to seal or expunge your record.
Your concerns matter, and you have the right to have them taken seriously. We offer honest advice, clear communication, and experienced legal strategy when we handle our clients’ cases.
What Shows Up on a Background Check in California?
In California, background checks often show the following:
- Arrests: Even if you weren’t convicted, the arrest itself may appear.
- Charges: Misdemeanor and felony domestic violence charges may show, including dismissed or dropped charges.
- Convictions: Any conviction, whether from a plea or verdict, will appear unless it is expunged.
- Protective orders: If a restraining order was filed, this may also show up in certain screenings.
Unless you have sealed or expunged the record, these entries remain visible to employers, landlords, and licensing agencies.
Arrest vs. Conviction: Is There a Difference?
When it comes to background checks, you also must understand the difference between an arrest and a conviction.
- An arrest means law enforcement took you into custody and filed charges against you. However, it doesn’t mean you were found guilty.
- A conviction happens only if you pleaded guilty, no contest, or were found guilty in court.
In California, arrests and convictions may show up on a background check unless your record has been sealed or expunged. That’s why some people whose cases were dismissed or never went to trial are surprised to learn their arrest still appears.
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What it Means When Others Can See Your Record
When a domestic violence charge shows up on a background check, it can create obstacles in everyday life. Employers may pass you over for a job, even if the charge was dropped or never led to a conviction.
Landlords might deny housing applications based on what they see in your record. Professional licensing boards can also flag your file, putting your career or certification at risk. Even if you were never found guilty, the presence of a charge alone can lead others to make unfair assumptions.
That’s why sealing or expunging your record—when possible—can be a critical step toward protecting your future. Our team can review your case and explain your options for clearing your record in California.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
How Can a Domestic Violence Charge Be Removed from Your Record?
There are a few legal tools that may help clean up your record:
- Expungement: If you completed probation and weren’t sentenced to prison, you might qualify for expungement.
- Record sealing: In some cases, if the charges were dismissed or you were found not guilty, you can petition to seal the record.
- Certificate of rehabilitation or pardon: These are harder to get, but may help if you have fully turned your life around.
Our legal team will determine whether your case qualifies for any of these. We will handle the paperwork, court appearances, and follow-ups to make the process easier for you.
What if Someone Falsely Accused You in a Domestic Incident?
Facing false accusations of domestic violence can be devastating. It could damage your reputation, job prospects, and family relationships, even if the charge doesn’t lead to a conviction.
Our team builds every defense from the ground up. We do not assume guilt or rely solely on police reports.
Instead, we:
- Review all police and bodycam footage.
- Interview every possible witness.
- Look for inconsistencies in the accuser’s story.
- Consult experts when necessary.
- Uncover records and data that support your version of events.
We take false allegations seriously and work to clear your name with the care and urgency you deserve.
Can You Sue for Damages After a False Domestic Violence Allegation?
In some situations, you can. If someone knowingly made a false report that caused you harm—such as loss of your job, wrongful jail time, or public humiliation—you may be able to sue for damages. We will assess your case and explain your options.
Potential claims might include:
- Defamation
- Malicious prosecution
- Intentional infliction of emotional distress
These cases are rare and hard to win, but we do not give up. If the evidence supports it, we will explore every legal path available to restore your name.
Facing a Domestic Violence Charge and Concerned About Your Background Check? Call Us
Being charged in a criminal case doesn’t mean you are guilty. However, it might still show up on your record. We understand that a mark on your record can affect nearly every area of your life, and that’s why we take your concerns and your case seriously.
At Silver Law Firm, we have helped thousands of people with their cases. We have been defending Californians for more than 30 years, and our attorneys have over 37 years of combined experience. Our firm is made up entirely of experienced criminal defense attorneys.
That means when you hire Silver Law Firm, you get the full backing of a skilled, results-driven legal team. Our criminal defense lawyer will fight for the best possible outcome. We are ready to learn more about how we can help you. Call now for a free phone consultation.
Call or text (510) 995-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form