Am I Eligible for a Criminal Record Expunction?

 Posted on May 18, 2025 in Criminal Defense

 The lasting impact of a criminal record can set your life back for years. Anyone who runs a background check on you can access your record, leading to unfortunate first impressions. The stigma of your record may seem inescapable, but you have options. A Texas criminal defense lawyer can help you pursue expunction of your record so you can move forward with your life.

Not everyone is eligible for expunction in the state of Texas. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., our lawyers can evaluate your case and explore your options to restore your reputation. We have over 25 years of combined experience in criminal law, and we can share our legal insights to help clear up any questions you may have.

Expunction for Non-Convictions

In general, if you were charged or arrested for a crime but NOT convicted, you can have your record expunged. This means that the record of the offense will be completely erased from public and private databases. For people looking to start fresh, this is an ideal option.

It is worth mentioning that even if you are found not guilty of a crime or the charges against you were dismissed, the details about your case will still appear on your criminal record. As such, it is critical that you work with an attorney to petition for expunction as soon as possible.

What if I Am Not Eligible for Expunction?

If you were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony offense, you may not be able to have it expunged from your record. However, this does not mean that you are out of options. Some qualifying convictions can be sealed in an order of nondisclosure. This means that the record will not be publicly available to landlords or employers who run a background check on you, but it will still be visible to government officials.

It may be possible to have your record sealed for a first misdemeanor conviction, except for certain offenses like organized crime or family violence. In other situations, you may be disqualified from an order of nondisclosure. If you have been convicted of certain sex crimes and violent offenses, your petition could be denied outright. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we can review your case and give you a clear idea of your options.

How Can I Get My Criminal Record Expunged or Sealed?

The process of getting your record expunged or sealed in Texas can be complicated. You will have to file a petition with the court, which requires a good deal of paperwork and a hearing in front of a judge. In a courtroom hearing, the prosecution can challenge your petition. Our criminal defense lawyers can represent you at this hearing and argue that your petition is in the best interests of justice.

Contact a Plano, TX Expunction and Nondisclosure Attorney Today

Living with a criminal record can be a massive burden. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., our Collin County, TX criminal defense lawyers can help lighten the load. Call us at 469-333-3333 to schedule a free consultation today.