Expunction
Expunction & Non-Disclosure
Is your criminal record preventing you from landing a job? Is your criminal record preventing you from maintaining good credit? Are you being held back from obtaining a professional license? There are some limited circumstances in which you may qualify to have an expunction of entries on your criminal history report.
If you do qualify, having an expunction may benefit the quality of your life greatly. You should speak to our attorneys who will assist you in obtaining your criminal history record, determine if you qualify for an expunction, and submit the request to the court for consideration.
Understanding Expunctions in Texas
An expunction is a legal process that allows eligible individuals to permanently remove certain criminal records from public access. When an expunction is granted, the agencies that maintain records relating to the arrest or criminal case are required to destroy or erase those records as provided by Texas law.
Having a criminal record can affect many areas of your life beyond employment. Landlords, lenders, educational institutions, and licensing boards often conduct background checks before making important decisions. Clearing an eligible criminal record may help remove unnecessary barriers and provide greater opportunities for the future.
Eligibility for an expunction depends on the specific facts of your case. Some individuals may qualify after charges are dismissed, after being found not guilty, or when charges were never filed. Because every situation is different, it is important to speak with an attorney who understands Texas expunction laws and can evaluate your eligibility.
Our office can review your criminal history, explain your legal options, prepare the necessary court documents, and guide you through each step of the expunction process.
Non-Disclosure
In some limited circumstances you may qualify to obtain an order of non-disclosure. The order would effectively prevent certain agencies from disclosing information about particular criminal records. Also, if an order of non-disclosure is granted, you may not have to legally disclose the criminal offense. The non-disclosure seals the record from public view. However, the record may still be viewable by the criminal justice system, licensing agencies, and some government sectors.
Once your records are expunged or sealed, you may also need to follow up with private companies that should update their databases. This is an extra step that may need to be taken to remove the entries. The attorneys with The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon, PLLC are here to help with this process.
Is a Non-Disclosure Right for You?
While an expunction completely removes qualifying criminal records, an Order of Non-Disclosure is designed to limit who can access your criminal history. For many individuals who do not qualify for an expunction, a nondisclosure may provide valuable protection by preventing most employers, landlords, and members of the public from viewing eligible criminal records.
Although certain government agencies and licensing authorities may still have access to sealed records, an Order of Non-Disclosure can significantly improve opportunities for employment, housing, education, and professional licensing by limiting public access to your criminal history.
Determining whether you qualify depends on several factors, including the type of offense, the outcome of your case, and the applicable waiting periods established under Texas law. Our attorneys can evaluate your circumstances and determine whether an expunction or an Order of Non-Disclosure is the best legal option for you.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon, PLLC?
Navigating Texas expunction and nondisclosure laws can be confusing without experienced legal guidance. Our firm is committed to helping clients understand their rights while providing personalized representation throughout the legal process.
We assist clients with:
- Expunction petitions
- Orders of Non-Disclosure
- Criminal record reviews
- Court filings
- Eligibility evaluations
- Court representation when necessary
- Confidential legal consultations
Our goal is to help eligible individuals protect their future and move forward with confidence.
Serving Families Throughout North Texas
The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon PLLC proudly represents families throughout Collin County, Dallas County, Denton and Tarrant Counties. The firm also represents clients in Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, Richardson and in other surrounding North Texas communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I qualify for an expunction?
Eligibility depends on the outcome of your criminal case and other legal requirements under Texas law. Our attorneys can review your record and determine whether you qualify.
What is the difference between an expunction and a non-disclosure?
An expunction permanently removes qualifying criminal records, while an Order of Non-Disclosure seals eligible records from public view but still allows certain government agencies to access them.
How long does the process take?
Every case is different. The timeline depends on the court, county, and complexity of your case. We will explain what to expect during your consultation.
Can you help obtain my criminal history?
Yes. We assist clients in obtaining their criminal history records, reviewing eligibility, preparing court documents, and guiding them through every step of the legal process.
Schedule a Consultation
If you believe you may qualify for an Expunction or an Order of Non-Disclosure, contact The Law Offices of Rita C. Dixon, PLLC today. We will review your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the fresh start you deserve. You can schedule a consultation online or call us at (817) 768-6333.