CA SB823

Establishes a petition process for individuals arrested, convicted, or adjudicated in juvenile court for nonviolent offenses committed while victims of human trafficking to seek vacatur of convictions and sealing of records.

Requires petitioners to prove by clear and convincing evidence that the arrest or conviction was the direct result of being a victim of human trafficking; petitions must be submitted under penalty of perjury.

Authorizes courts to vacate convictions, dismiss charges, seal and destroy arrest records, and notify the Department of Justice upon finding the petitioner was a trafficking victim and engaged in good faith efforts to distance themselves from the trafficking scheme.

Allows petitioners to appear telephonically, via videoconference, or by other electronic means if they have a compelling reason not to appear in person; prohibits disclosure of petitioners' full names in public records.

Permits individuals who obtain relief to lawfully deny or refuse to acknowledge the set-aside arrest, conviction, or adjudication; prohibits distribution of records to state licensing boards.