Many drivers have questions about a continuance without a finding (CWOF) after arrests in Los Angeles. You may wonder if a CWOF counts as a conviction. Generally, these findings do not count as convictions. However, the state of California does not focus on CWOFs. In fact, CWOFs are more likely to be used in states like Massachusetts.
Drivers in Los Angeles can, instead, be offered a plea bargain. These deals allow drivers to resolve their cases out of court. However, they do still leave a mark on a driver’s criminal record. Find out more about plea bargains with this article.
Basic Information About a CWOF in Legal Terms
A CWOF is very much like a plea bargain. Individuals accept a CWOF if they admit that there is enough evidence for the prosecution to secure a conviction. However, the driver then decides not to try to fight their case in court.
Accepting a CWOF results in probation, in most cases. Drivers with a CWOF must obey all the terms of their probation, usually for a year. After the year expires, the court reviews the driver’s case. Drivers who complete their probation without issue will not have a criminal conviction on their record.
However, it may still appear on a background check. In any case, the state of California does not generally use a CWOF. You could end up with a CWOF if you are arrested for a driving offense in a state like Massachusetts.
Plea Bargains in the State of California
The state of California uses plea bargains for some criminal cases. Plea bargains are deals that reduce the charges an individual faces. However, drivers who accept a plea bargain are agreeing to plead guilty to a crime.
In exchange for pleading guilty, the prosecution offers a driver reduced penalties. This makes plea bargains a good idea for many drivers charged with a crime in Los Angeles. However, you should know that a plea bargain does show up as a conviction on your criminal record.
In many cases, plea bargains reduce or remove jail time for a criminal charge. Instead, drivers can end up facing probation, just as with a CWOF. Drivers on probation in California have to obey the orders of the court. A judge may order a driver to:
- Completely abstain from drinking before driving
- Commit no additional criminal acts
- Attend an alcohol treatment program
Drivers who do not adhere to the terms of their probation face legal penalties. Probation violations are serious criminal acts in Los Angeles. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can help you learn more about probation. Call (310) 896-2724 to get answers to your legal questions.
Expungement of Criminal Charges in California
You should know that some charges can be removed from your criminal record after a conviction in California. A lawyer can help you request an expungement to remove these charges. However, expungement is generally only possible if you did not spend time in prison.
Accepting a plea bargain can help you stay out of prison. This means it may be easier to get an expungement for your charges. You must generally complete any penalties ordered by the court before requesting an expungement. This means you may need to:
- Pay any court fines
- Complete your probation
- Attend any classes or courses ordered by the court
After completing these steps, you can contact a Los Angeles DUI lawyer. A lawyer will work to determine if you are eligible for an expungement or not.
Consider Fighting DUI Charges in Court in California
Many criminal charges in California are resolved through a plea bargain. However, not all charges are handled this way. A lawyer can help you build a courtroom defense if you are accused of a DUI, for example. Your lawyer can:
- Help you during interviews with law enforcement or the prosecution
- Assist during your arraignment or bail hearing
- Work to investigate your situation
- Build you a defense for court
Taking these steps can help you secure a not guilty verdict. If you are deemed not guilty by the court, you will not get a conviction on your record.
Learn More about a CWOF with a Lawyer in Los Angeles
Does a CWOF count as a conviction? A CWOF does not show up as a conviction on your criminal record. However, not all states use CWOFs. The state of California, for example, offers plea bargains, instead. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can help you secure a plea bargain. Find out how by completing our online contact form. You can also call (310) 896-2724.
Get additional information about your legal options with a free consultation.
