Houston Expungement Lawyer

Houston Expungement Attorney

Long after your case ends and you serve your sentence, a criminal record can still follow you around. Even an arrest that didn’t lead to a conviction can affect your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, and move on with your life. After your case has concluded, there shouldn’t be ongoing consequences. Luckily, a Houston expungement lawyer may be able to help you clear your record and get your life back on track. The team at Greco Neyland, PC, is here to offer guidance throughout this process.

Hire an Expungement Lawyer

Founded by former Harris County prosecutors, the attorneys at Greco Neyland, PC, bring firsthand courtroom experience from both sides of the justice system. Our team emphasizes thorough case preparation, evidence review, and challenging the prosecution’s arguments at every step.

For residents of Houston seeking expungement assistance, our experience in criminal defense can be particularly valuable. We can evaluate your eligibility, identify opportunities to clear your record, and help you navigate the complex process of pursuing expungement. You can rely on our team to give you the legal support you need to petition the court, making sure your request is properly filed and representing you in any necessary hearings.

Understanding Expungement

Expungement is the legal process that removes certain criminal records from public access. In Houston, an expungement order can require courts, police departments, and other agencies to destroy records tied to an arrest or criminal case. Once a record is expunged, you can generally deny the arrest or case that ever happened in most cases. It’s important to understand that expungement is not available to everyone, and only certain types of cases qualify.

Expungement Qualifications in Texas

Texas is relatively strict with its expungement laws, particularly compared to many other states. Expunction is often only available for cases that end without a conviction. This may include dismissed charges, arrests that never led to formal charges, acquittals, or cases involving the successful completion of certain diversion programs. In limited situations, pardoned or overturned convictions may also qualify.

Because eligibility is strict, it’s helpful to work with a Houston expungement attorney to understand your legal options and determine if you qualify. What’s more, they can assist you throughout the process to improve your chances of success.

The Expungement Process In Texas

Texas saw 1,087,592 arrests in 2022, many of which resulted in dismissed charges, acquittals, or the completion of diversion programs. While it’s impossible to say how many records were expunged during that time, it is safe to say the court sees its fair share of petitions for expunction.

The process begins by determining whether your case qualifies under Texas law. The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55a outlines who can have their case expunged and under what circumstances. If eligible, a person must file a petition with the district court where the original case was heard. The petition must list all agencies that may have a record of the arrest, including law enforcement, courts, and state databases.

After filing, agencies are given the opportunity to object. The court may schedule a hearing where a judge reviews the facts and decides whether the legal requirements for expunction have been met. If the judge grants the request, a court order is issued directing all listed agencies to destroy or remove the records. Once completed, the case is treated as though it never legally occurred.

FAQs About Houston, TX Expungement Laws

How Much Does It Cost to Expunge a Case in Texas?

The cost to expunge a case in Texas depends on several factors, including court filing fees, attorney fees, and the complexity of the case. Filing fees alone vary from court to court, with some costing hundreds of dollars. In the Harris County District Court, some filing fees can be as high as $350. As for attorney fees, some lawyers charge a flat rate, while others charge per hour, depending on the case.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Expunge My Record in Houston?

While there’s no legal requirement to hire a lawyer to expunge your record in Houston, it’s usually a good idea to consult one. Working with an attorney can help you understand the process of expungement and inform you whether your charge is eligible for expunction. This can save you the time and money of petitioning the court only to be denied. Plus, they can help you avoid mistakes that may delay your petition.

Can an Employer Ask About an Expunged Record?

Nothing stops an employer from asking about an expunged record, but they’d also typically have no way of knowing if your convictions have been expunged. Through expunction, it’s as if you were never convicted in the first place. You are allowed to deny that an arrest or conviction ever occurred. There are limited exceptions to this rule, including instances that involve government employers or licensing boards.

What Is the Difference Between Expungement and Nondisclosure?

The main difference between expungement and nondisclosure is the accessibility of the record. While both limit access to your criminal history, expungement removes the record from nearly all public access, allowing you to legally deny that the arrest or case happened. A nondisclosure order seals the record from most employers and the public, but certain government agencies can still access it. Generally, it’s easier to qualify for nondisclosure.

Contact A Houston Expungement Lawyer Today

Your criminal history shouldn’t follow you for the rest of your life, particularly if you were never convicted or successfully completed a diversion program. If you have charges on your record that you want removed, hire an expungement attorney to help you get your life back on track. At Greco Neyland, PC, we understand the toll a criminal record can take on a person. We’re dedicated to helping you clear your name and your criminal history.

Contact Greco Neyland, PC, today to discuss your expungement case. We’ll review your record, determine if you’re eligible, and get to work creating a legal strategy to help you. Trust our team to be by your side throughout the process.