How to Clear Your Criminal Record in Texas: Step-by-Step Guide

Why It Matters:
"Clearing your record can give you a fresh start and open doors to new opportunities. This guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, so you know exactly what to do."

What Does It Mean to Clear Your Criminal Record?

1. Expungement (Expunction):

   • Completely removes your criminal record as if the arrest or charge never happened.
   • Who qualifies? People whose cases were dismissed, charges were never filed, or who were acquitted.

2. Nondisclosure (Sealing Your Record):

   • Seals your record from the public but allows law enforcement to see it.
   • Who qualifies? People who successfully completed deferred adjudication for certain offenses.

Step-by-Step Guide to Clearing Your Record

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

• Use the following checklist to see if you qualify for:
  • Expungement:
    • ☐ You were arrested but never charged.
    • ☐ Your case was dismissed.
    • ☐ You were acquitted (found not guilty).
    • ☐ You completed deferred adjudication for a Class C misdemeanor.
  • Nondisclosure:
    • ☐ You completed deferred adjudication for eligible offenses.

👉 Download my free Expungement Eligibility Worksheet to check your eligibility faster.

Step 2: Gather Your Records

To file for expungement or nondisclosure, you’ll need:

• Arrest details (date, law enforcement agency).
• Case number and court documents.
• Disposition (outcome) of your case.

Step 3: File the Petition for Expunction or Nondisclosure

• Prepare a Petition for Expunction (for expungement) or a Petition for Nondisclosure (to seal your record).
• Include:
  • Your identifying information (name, address, case details).
  • A list of agencies holding your records.

👉 Save time with my Petition for Expunction Template—it’s pre-formatted and easy to use.

• File the petition with the District Court in the county where you were arrested.

Step 4: Attend Your Court Hearing

• Once your petition is filed, the court will schedule a hearing.
• What to bring: Copies of your records and any supporting documentation.
• What to expect: The judge may ask questions to confirm your eligibility.

Step 5: Notify Relevant Agencies

If the judge grants your expungement or nondisclosure:

• The court will issue an order to law enforcement agencies, courts, and other entities to:
  • Destroy (for expungement) or seal (for nondisclosure) your records.
• Follow up to ensure compliance.

Next Steps

Clearing your record can be life-changing, and the process is easier than you think with the right tools.

👉 Start by downloading my Expungement Eligibility Worksheet to see if you qualify.
👉 Use the Petition for Expunction Template to simplify your paperwork and save time.

Final Thoughts

Your past doesn’t have to define your future. Expungement or nondisclosure gives you a fresh start and allows you to move forward with confidence.

Stay tuned to Texas Law Unlocked for more guides, tools, and resources to help you take control of your legal challenges.

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