Can I Get My Criminal Record Sealed in Texas?

A criminal record creates barriers to employment, housing, and professional licensing. Even arrests without convictions can appear on background checks. Fortunately, Texas law provides options for record clearing through expunction and nondisclosure.

At Gunter, Bennett, & Anthes, our Texas criminal defense attorneys help Travis County residents seal criminal records and move forward. We will fight to ensure a brighter future for you.

Expunction: Erasing Your Record Completely

Expunction completely destroys criminal records, allowing you to legally deny that the incident ever occurred. You may qualify for expunction if:

• You were arrested but never charged
• You were charged but the case was dismissed
• You were acquitted at trial
• You were convicted but later found actually innocent or pardoned
• You successfully completed a pretrial diversion program for certain offenses
• You were convicted of a minor alcohol offense as a juvenile

Recent changes under House Bill 4504 have streamlined Texas expunction procedures. Waiting periods apply, with 180 days for Class C misdemeanors, one year for other misdemeanors, and three years for feloanies.

Orders of Nondisclosure: Sealing Your Record

If you are ineligible for expunction, an order of nondisclosure may seal your record from public view. While law enforcement retains access, most employers and landlords cannot see sealed records. You may be eligible for nondisclosure if:

• You successfully completed deferred adjudication probation
• You were convicted of certain misdemeanors and meet specific requirements
• You meet all waiting periods and have no subsequent criminal history

Certain offenses are ineligible for nondisclosure, including murder, sexual offenses requiring registration, and family violence crimes. An experienced Texas criminal defense lawyer can review your case and determine which option you qualify for.

The Benefits of Clearing Your Criminal Record

Sealing or expunging your Texas criminal record can provide significant benefits, including:

• Improved employment opportunities
• Better housing options
• Professional licensing eligibility
• Legal right to deny expunged records
• Peace of mind

The Process of Expunction or Nondisclosure

Getting your record cleared in Texas involves several steps:

• Determine eligibility: We review your criminal history to determine which remedy may apply.
• Gather documentation: Collect court records and disposition papers proving eligibility.
• File a petition: We submit the petition for expunction or nondisclosure in Travis County.
• Serve notice: Police, prosecutors, and DPS are notified and can object.
• Attend a hearing: A judge may hold a hearing to decide on your petition.
• Order signed: If approved, the judge orders agencies to seal or destroy records.

The process typically takes several months from start to finish, but the results are worth the effort.

Contact Our Texas Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

Attempting to seal your record without legal guidance risks denial due to paperwork errors or missed deadlines. At Gunter, Bennett, & Anthes, we use over 65 years of combined experience to successfully navigate Texas record sealing laws. Call Gunter, Bennett, & Anthes at (512) 476-2494 or contact us online for a free consultation. Our criminal defense attorneys will review your case and start your journey to a clean slate today.

We proudly represent clients throughout Austin and the surrounding communities.

Gunter, Bennett & Anthes, PC
600 W 9th Street
Austin, TX 78701

(512) 476-2494

Conveniently located in downtown Austin, our office is within walking distance of the Travis County and Federal Courthouses.

Our Austin office is located near you.

Find us with our GeoCoordinates: 30.272708, -97.747564