Dismissed Charges: What Happens Next?

Dismissed Charges: What Happens Next?

Being informed that your criminal charges have been dismissed can bring a sense of relief. However, it’s important to understand that the legal journey doesn’t end there. Dismissed charges, while a favorable outcome, can have lasting implications on your future. Whether you’ve been cleared of accusations or the case was dropped due to insufficient evidence, knowing what happens next is crucial for protecting your rights and your future.

If you've had charges dismissed and you're unsure of the next steps, it’s essential to consult with a skilled Criminal Attorney in Los Angeles. In this article, we’ll explore what happens after charges are dismissed, why it's important to act quickly, and how a Los Angeles, CA criminal defense attorney can help you move forward.


What Does It Mean When Charges Are Dismissed?

Before discussing the next steps, it’s important to briefly define charge dismissal. A dismissed charge means that the legal case against you has been closed without a conviction. This can happen for various reasons, including:

  • Lack of evidence
  • Constitutional violations (like Miranda rights issues)
  • Procedural errors
  • Prosecutorial discretion



While this is generally a positive outcome, it doesn’t automatically erase your arrest or charge from public records. Depending on the circumstances, your criminal record may still show the dismissed charge, which can have consequences on background checks, employment prospects, and more.

What Happens to My Criminal Record After Dismissal?

Even if charges are dismissed, the record of your arrest and the case may still appear on background checks. This is especially true if your case has been dismissed without prejudice, meaning the charges can potentially be refiled. In such cases, your arrest record may still be available to potential employers or landlords.

This is why it’s crucial to speak with a Criminal Attorney in Los Angeles to discuss your options for clearing your record. Depending on the state and the circumstances, you may be able to pursue expungement or record sealing to prevent the dismissal from affecting your future.

  • Expungement: This legal process removes the dismissed charges from your record, as if they never happened. It’s especially important for those seeking jobs or housing, as it allows you to legally say you were never arrested or charged with a crime.

  • Record Sealing: In some cases, you may be able to have your criminal record sealed. While this doesn't remove it entirely, it prevents most people (including employers and landlords) from seeing it. Sealing your record can offer significant privacy and peace of mind.

For more detailed information on the process of clearing your criminal record after a dismissal, you can check out our full article on charge dismissal [Link to blog].

Can Charges Be Refiled After Dismissal?

One of the most important things to consider after your charges are dismissed is whether they can be brought back. If your charges were dismissed with prejudice, the case is closed permanently, and the prosecution cannot refile the charges in the future. However, if the dismissal was without prejudice, the charges may be refiled at any time within the statute of limitations, should new evidence or circumstances arise.

It’s crucial to understand the nature of your dismissal so you can take the appropriate actions. Consulting with an Attorney Lawyer in Los Angeles is the best way to assess the situation and ensure that your rights are fully protected.

The Importance of Legal Counsel Post-Dismissal

Even though the charges against you have been dismissed, there are still several steps you need to take to ensure that you’re fully protected. Here’s how an LA Criminal Defense Attorney can help you:

  1. Clearing Your Record: If your dismissal is likely to affect your future, an experienced attorney can help you navigate the expungement or sealing process, so that dismissed charges no longer hinder your opportunities.

  2. Preventing Refiling: If the dismissal was without prejudice, your attorney can help you monitor the case and ensure that it doesn’t get reopened unnecessarily.

  3. Advising on Future Legal Risks: Even after dismissal, you may still be vulnerable to civil suits or future criminal charges. A defense attorney can advise you on how to avoid any potential legal issues moving forward.

Having the right legal guidance during this phase is essential. To learn more about what happens after charges are dismissed and how to handle your case, refer to our comprehensive blog on charge dismissals [Link to blog].

What Should I Do Next After a Charge is Dismissed?

After charges are dismissed, the following steps should be considered:

  1. Request Official Proof of Dismissal: It's important to obtain an official record showing that your charges were dismissed. This can be useful for job applications, housing, or legal matters in the future.

  2. Consult with a Lawyer: A Criminal Attorney in Los Angeles can help you determine whether you’re eligible for expungement or sealing of your record. They can also help you assess the possibility of the charges being brought back and what actions you need to take to protect yourself.

  3. Check Your Criminal Record: If your charge was dismissed without prejudice, make sure to check your record periodically to ensure the charges are not refiled.

  4. Stay Proactive: Even if the dismissal is final, staying on top of your legal situation with the help of your attorney will help you avoid any future complications related to the dismissed charges.


The dismissal of criminal charges is an excellent outcome, but it doesn’t necessarily mean your legal issues are behind you. Dismissed charges can still impact your future if they remain on your criminal record or if the case is reopened. Seeking professional help from an experienced Attorney Lawyer in Los Angeles is vital to make sure you fully understand your legal rights and options.

If you’ve had charges dismissed, don’t wait—contact an LA Criminal Defense Attorney today to explore your options for expungement or sealing, and ensure that you’re protected for the future. For more information on what happens after charges are dismissed, take a look at our full blog post on charge dismissals [Link to blog].







 Rubin Law, P.C.

3731 Wilshire Blvd Suite 514B Los Angeles, CA 90010

 213-723-2237

http://rubinlawpc.com

https://maps.app.goo.gl/U8NhwDDe3NmtTb7u5

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