A new year often brings fresh starts and new goals. But for many Texans, old criminal charges still show up on background checks, creating obstacles long after the case is over. If you’re trying to move forward with your life, you may be wondering: Can you clear your criminal record in Texas?
The answer is: sometimes, yes. Texas law provides options that may allow you to erase or seal parts of your criminal record, depending on how your case was resolved.
Why a Criminal Record Still Matters
Even if charges were dismissed or you completed probation years ago, your record may still be visible to employers, landlords, licensing boards, and schools. Background checks are now routine, and even minor offenses can raise questions that affect:
- Job opportunities
- Housing applications
- Professional licenses
- College admissions
- Loans and financial opportunities
That’s why clearing or limiting access to your record can be a critical step toward a true fresh start.
Option One: Expunction (Erasing the Record)
An expunction completely removes an arrest or charge from your criminal record, as if it never happened. Once expunged, you are legally allowed to say the incident never occurred.
You may qualify for an expunction if:
- You were arrested but never charged
- Your case was dismissed
- You were acquitted at trial
- You completed a pretrial diversion program
- The statute of limitations expired
Expunctions offer the cleanest outcome but not everyone qualifies.
Option Two: Order of Nondisclosure (Sealing the Record)
If expunction isn’t available, you may still qualify for an order of nondisclosure. This doesn’t erase your record, but it seals it from public view, including most employers and landlords.
Law enforcement and certain government agencies may still access sealed records, but for most people, nondisclosure is enough to move forward without constant background check issues.
Nondisclosure may be available if:
- You successfully completed deferred adjudication probation
- You meet waiting-period requirements
- The offense qualifies under Texas law
Why Timing Matters
Texas law has strict eligibility rules and waiting periods. Filing too early or filing incorrectly can result in denial. That’s why having an experienced criminal defense attorney review your case is so important.
A lawyer can:
- Review your criminal history
- Determine which records qualify
- Handle filing deadlines and court procedures
- Maximize your chances of approval
The Bottom Line
A past mistake shouldn’t define your future. If old charges are still holding you back, Texas law may give you a way forward but the process isn’t automatic.
If you’re ready to start the new year with a clean slate, talk with an experienced attorney who understands Texas record-clearing laws.
Contact Spiegelhauer Law today to find out whether you qualify for an expunction or order of nondisclosure and take the first step toward putting the past behind you.
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