This page was written, edited, reviewed & approved by Brian LaVine following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. Brian LaVine the Founding Partner, 10+ years of legal experience as criminal defense attorney.
At LaVine Law Firm, our Pasadena expungement lawyer helps clients clear their criminal records and move toward a brighter future. A criminal record creates barriers that follow you for years after you complete your sentence. Research shows that one in three Americans has a criminal record, and such records reduce callback rates for job interviews by up to 50 percent. Texas law offers relief through expunction under Chapter 55 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Our law offices provide the legal representation you need to navigate this process and reclaim control of your life.
We believe everyone deserves a second chance. Our criminal defense attorney works to reduce or eliminate the impact of past convictions on your future. An expungement attorney can review your criminal case, determine your eligibility, and file the proper petition with the court. We fight to protect your best interests throughout every step of the process.
Our firm serves clients in Pasadena and throughout Houston. Whether you face challenges from a misdemeanor or felony conviction, we are here to help you seek a fresh start.
Texas expunction allows eligible individuals to have their arrest records destroyed and their criminal cases erased. This process differs from a nondisclosure order, which seals the record from public view. Expunction deletes your record entirely. After expunction, you can legally deny that the arrest ever happened.
You may qualify for expunction if your charges were dismissed and you were not placed on probation. People who were acquitted at trial or had charges dropped also qualify. Those who pled guilty, were convicted, or received deferred adjudication generally cannot get an expunction. An expungement attorney can review your specific case to determine if you meet the requirements under Texas law.
An expunged record improves your job prospects in meaningful ways. Texas law prevents most private employers from seeing a destroyed criminal record. According to Texas Appleseed, nearly 90% of employers utilize background checks, making a clean record essential. You can answer "no" to most job applications' questions about criminal arrests.
Housing applications become easier when landlords cannot find your criminal history. Professional licensing boards will not see the expunged offense when reviewing your application. You may also qualify for student loans and housing assistance that were previously denied. These benefits help you rebuild your life and move forward without your past holding you back.
The expungement process begins when you gather documents related to your criminal history. You will need case numbers, conviction dates, and proof of probation completion. Our legal team handles the paperwork and ensures every form is filed correctly with the court.
We submit your petition to the court that handled your original criminal case. The District Attorney's office receives a copy and may challenge the petition. A judge reviews your request and considers whether you have been rehabilitated. The court has discretion to grant or deny your petition based on the evidence presented.
The typical steps in the expungement process include:
This structured approach helps ensure that every step aligns with legal requirements and maximizes the chance of a favorable outcome.
Once the court grants your petition, your record will be updated. The notation changes to reflect the dismissal. This update flows to background check companies, though it may take time to appear in all databases.
The American Bar Association highlights that clearing a record is the most effective way to remove "collateral consequences." You no longer need to disclose the conviction on most job applications. However, you must still disclose it when applying for law enforcement positions or running for public office.
Many criminal offenses qualify for expungement under Texas law. The key factor is whether you successfully completed probation and avoided state prison time. Our criminal defense attorney reviews your entire case to identify which convictions may be eligible for relief.
Common qualifying offenses include:
People convicted of wobbler offenses may first reduce their felony to a misdemeanor before seeking expungement. This two-step process can provide even greater relief for those with felony convictions on their record.
DUI convictions rank among the most common criminal offenses in Texas. A DUI lawyer can help you seek expungement after you complete probation and satisfy all court requirements. The court applies a higher standard for DUI cases and must find that granting relief serves the interest of justice.
Other qualifying misdemeanor offenses include petty theft, trespassing, and disorderly conduct. You must wait at least one year after completing your sentence before filing. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) oversees the removal of these records once an order is signed.
Some criminal convictions cannot be expunged under Texas law. Serious sex offenses against minors are permanently excluded. If you served time in state prison rather than county jail, you may face additional restrictions.
Open probation cases do not qualify until you complete all terms. A probation violation can disqualify you or make approval more difficult. Our firm explores alternative legal options for clients who do not qualify. These may include a Certificate of Rehabilitation or a Governor's pardon.
Filing for expungement involves complex paperwork and strict deadlines. A small error can result in denial. Our legal team guides you through each step and handles all court filings on your behalf. We know how to present your case in the best course to increase approval chances.
We develop a strategy based on your criminal history. Our attorneys prepare you for the court hearing if one is required. This informed approach reduces the risk of denial and helps you achieve a favorable outcome. For those curious about the arrest process, we offer detailed guides on our site.
Our law offices focus on client success. We take time to understand your goals and explain every step of the process. Our criminal defense team brings experience from handling hundreds of cases across Texas. Clients trust us to defend their interests, as seen in our testimonials.
We believe in a supportive approach to helping people rebuild their lives. A past mistake should not define your future. Our firm treats every client with respect and works hard to secure the relief they deserve. We are forever grateful for the opportunity to help people move forward.
Does expungement completely erase my criminal record?
No. Expungement changes your conviction to "dismissed" but does not delete it. Law enforcement and some government agencies can still see your criminal history.
How long does the expungement process take?
Most cases take between 4 to 6 weeks after filing. Complex cases or court backlogs may extend this timeline. We can request expedited processing for urgent employment needs.
Can I expunge more than one criminal charge?
Yes. You may petition to expunge multiple eligible convictions. Each case requires a separate petition filed with the appropriate court.
Will employers still see my case?
Background checks may show your case, but they must also show it was dismissed. Texas law prohibits employers from using dismissed convictions in hiring decisions.
Can I apply while facing charges?
No. You must resolve all pending criminal matters before filing for expungement. Active cases disqualify you from relief under Penal Code Section 1203.4.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer to file?
You can file without an attorney, but legal representation increases your chances of success. An experienced lawyer handles paperwork and advocates for you in court.
Your past does not have to control your future. A brighter future starts with clearing your record and removing barriers to employment, housing, and opportunity. Our Pasadena lawyers stand ready to help you take the first step toward rebuilding your life.
Call LaVine Law Firm today for a free consultation. We will review your criminal history, explain your options, and outline the best course of action for your specific case. Our legal team serves clients throughout the Pasadena area and surrounding communities. Contact us by email or phone to schedule your confidential case review and begin the path to a fresh start.
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