How to Expunge Criminal Records in Texas
When you are arrested for a crime, your criminal record will permanently reflect the incident. The Texas Department of Public Safety maintains the record and shares the information when anyone performs a background check on you. Even if you were not convicted, the record of your arrest will be a black mark against you.
At Ryan Grant & Associates, in Dallas, we have nearly 10 years of experience helping clients clear their names and make a fresh start after an encounter with the criminal justice system. As your legal representative, we will pursue expungement or file a motion for non-disclosure to seal your criminal record from the public. Contact our office to determine if your record is eligible for expungement or non-disclosure.
Expungement
Expungement, sometimes referred to as an expunction, is a process in which a person's criminal record is completely cleared. Once the record is expunged, the individual can legally treat the matter as if it never happened. Records that are commonly expunged include:
- Dismissed cases
- Trials that resulted in "not guilty" verdicts — acquittals
- Pardons
- False identification used by others
However, not all records are eligible for expungement. If you accepted a punishment for a crime, you generally are not able to erase the record. Consult with a skilled lawyer to determine if your record is a candidate for this process.
Non-Disclosure
Individuals placed on deferred adjudication for non-violent offenses, including drug possession and theft charges, may be eligible to have their records sealed through non-disclosure. This process seals the record to everyone, with the exception of law enforcement. While you will not be able to tell a potential employer you were never charged with a crime, the public will not see your record when performing a background check.
Generally, a person must have successfully completed probation and avoided arrest for a certain period of time before being granted a non-disclosure.
Knowledgeable Attorney Helping You Move Forward
To expunge or seal your criminal record, contact us online or call our office at 214-989-4555. We offer free initial consultations and are available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 214-868-8608.
My current office is located in the Millennium Tower with Frost Bank, on the Northwest corner of Arapaho and the tollway. Spanish language services available.
We accept credit cards.
