When it comes to past mistakes and legal issues, the Lone Star State provides an opportunity for individuals to clean the slate and regain control of their lives.
In Texas, the process of expungement is available to certain individuals who meet specific criteria.
1. Who is eligibile for expungement?
Not everyone with a criminal record can seek expungement. You may qualify for expungement if your case ended in a not-guilty verdict, dismissal or no-bill by a grand jury. If you received a pardon or parole for a conviction, you may also qualify for expungement, but there is a waiting period, which can be up to 10 years, depending on the type of crime committed.
2. How does the expungement process work?
First, you must file a petition for expunction in the court where your case happened. The court will examine your eligibility for expungement based on the criteria mentioned earlier. If there are no objections or if the court rules in your favor after considering any objections, the court will schedule a hearing. Here, you will present your case for expungement. If the court grants your request, you will receive an expungement order. This order directs all relevant agencies to destroy or seal your criminal records.
3. What are the benefits of expungement?
Approximately 80 million Americans have a criminal record, which often affects their ability to gain employment, housing and education. Expungement provides a clean slate, allowing you to move forward without the burden of a criminal record and having to worry about negative background checks.
Expungement in Texas is a valuable legal process that can provide a second chance to many people, which makes understanding the process important.
