San Antonio Expungement Lawyer

Clearing Your Criminal Record in Texas

For many people who have been arrested or convicted of a crime, that record can follow them around long after they have paid any debts they may owe as a result of their actions. In fact, a record does not even have to reflect an actual conviction to do damage to a person’s reputation, making it difficult for them in many different ways.

With background checks and the availability of technology more widespread and easier to use than ever, almost anyone can access a person’s complete history. This can then be used to influence decisions ranging from employment to trying to rent or buy a home to buying a car to many other things of value.

Recognizing that these records can do a lot more harm than they should, Texas officials—and officials throughout most states in the United States—allow some form of expungement. Expungement is the process of sealing or destroying court records, meaning that the record is no longer available to the public. Each state is different in how they handle expungements, and in cases where records are sealed and not destroyed, they may still be opened under very specific and restricted circumstances, such as when law enforcement officials are investigating a case.

Texas expungement laws allow for the expungement of arrests which did not lead to a finding of guilty or any Class C misdemeanors. If the defendant was found guilty, pleaded no contest, or pleaded guilty to an offense other than class C misdemeanor then it is not eligible for expungement in any way. However, it may be eligible for non-disclosure if deferred adjudication is granted.

An attorney in Texas has solutions for anyone who is suffering from the harmful effects of their past criminal record. Record sealing and expungement proceedings can be difficult, making it important to hire an expert attorney who is experienced in dealing with situations like this. Simple mistakes could force you to have to start the process over again from the beginning and delaying it for months or years.

To learn more, contact the San Antonio expungement attorney at our firm. The Emmons Law Firm, P.C. can help you determine if you qualify for expungement under Texas state law.

What Are the Effects of Texas Expungements?

Generally, with the help of an attorney, the biggest benefit to a successful expungement means that you can truthfully state that you have never been arrested, accused, or charged with any crime. It is as if the entire incident never happened after the records are expunged.

When you are applying for a job or already have a job, your employer cannot ask about an expunged conviction. And, if a potential landlord runs a background check to see if you have a criminal history, an expungement means that no activity will pop up. The same can apply when you are applying for various forms of credit as well.