What You Should Know About Expungement in Texas

A criminal record can change your life forever. If you have one, you may be eligible for expungement. Reach out to our experienced Houston expungements attorneys today to learn more about your options.

What are the consequences of having a criminal record in Texas?

A criminal record can have severe life-long impacts on those who have one. If you have a criminal record in Texas, you can expect the following consequences:

  • If you are charged with a sex crime, you will have to register as a sex offender, which informs the public of your crime, as well as your location at all times.
  • Many job applications ask if you have been charged with a crime. If asked, you will have to answer “yes,” which can dramatically impact your chances of becoming employed.
  • If you were convicted of a DUI offense, it will most likely prevent you from getting a commercial driver’s license.
  • Criminal convictions often restrict individuals from serving in certain government jobs.
  • If you are a divorced parent, your criminal record may effect your child custody agreement, because the essence of these agreements is to act in the best interests of your child.
  • Some criminal convictions can prevent you from taking out specific loans.
  • Usually, landlords will conduct a background check before renting out a property, and if you have a criminal record, you may not be able to live in certain places.

Can I have my criminal record expunged in Texas?

In the state of Texas, if your criminal record is expunged, information about an arrest, charge, or conviction will be removed from your record. Some of the crimes that may be qualified for expungement in Texas include the following:

  • Certain underage alcohol offenses
  • Some misdemeanor juvenile offenses
  • Failing to attend school
  • Crimes acquitted by a trial court or the Criminal Court of Appeals
  • Crimes pardoned either by the Governor of Texas or the President of the United States
  • Criminal charges that were later dismissed
  • Being arrested for a crime, though never facing formal charges for the alleged crime

In the event that you were convicted of any of the below crimes, you will not be able to expunge your record:

  • You have charges pending against you for a different crime
  • You received deferred adjudication or probation
  • You were convicted of a crime that was determined to be part of a criminal episode
  • You were charged with an additional felony within a 5-year period of a separate felony offense.

Do not hesitate to reach out to our firm today to discuss your case and your options. Our Houston expungements attorneys are on your side no matter what.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED HOUSTON FIRM

We understand how challenging various legal matters can be, which is why we have dedicated ourselves to helping clients in Texas through a wide array of legal matters, including personal injury law and criminal defense. If you have sustained a serious injury or are facing criminal charges, contact the Gonzalez Law Group today to learn more about how we can help you through every step of the legal process ahead.