How Changes to Houston’s Expungement Laws Might Affect You

Having a criminal record can weigh you down, limit your opportunities, and cast a shadow over your future. But there is some good news: recent changes to expungement laws might help lighten that load if you’re in Houston. Consulting with a defense law firm in Houston can provide the guidance you need to navigate this process effectively.
You’re not alone in this struggle. Thousands of individuals in Houston struggle with the consequences of past mistakes, wondering if there’s a way to wipe the slate clean. Fortunately, expungement can help many get their lives back on track and move forward into a brighter future.
Understanding Expungement
What is expungement? It’s the legal process of erasing or sealing a criminal record. It’s like hitting the delete button and wiping your past mistakes from existence. Sounds good, right? Unfortunately, in Texas, only criminal charges are eligible for expungement.
However, recent changes to Texas laws have expanded the pool of candidates for expungement. Under the revised Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 55.01, you might qualify if:
- You were arrested but never charged
- Your case was dismissed
- You were acquitted (found not guilty) at trial
- You were convicted but later pardoned
In addition to those qualifications, the type of offense, the time since the incident, and your overall criminal history all play a role.
In 2021, Texas passed House Bill 3016, aka the “Second Chances” bill. This legislation expanded opportunities for record sealing, particularly for individuals with DWI convictions. If you’ve got a low-level DWI on your record from years ago, you might just be in luck.
Another pivotal shift occurred with Senate Bill 20 in 2019. This law expanded the list of offenses eligible for an “order of nondisclosure” – essentially sealing the record from public view. It opened new avenues for those with certain nonviolent misdemeanors previously ineligible for such relief.
Is Expungement Right For Me?
Successful expungement has substantial benefits. It allows you to honestly answer “No” to questions about criminal history on job applications. It can facilitate access to housing and educational opportunities and even improve personal relationships. Essentially, it offers a chance to rewrite your narrative without the shadow of past mistakes.
However, it’s crucial to understand that expungement is not a universal solution. The process can be lengthy, complex, and potentially costly. Typical timelines range from several months to a year, and success is never guaranteed. Moreover, while expungement should remove records from public databases, some federal agencies may retain access to the information.
While the expungement process can be daunting, it represents a powerful tool for those seeking to move beyond their past. Recent changes to Houston’s expungement laws have expanded possibilities for many, but you shouldn’t attempt to expunge your criminal record without having an experienced Houston criminal defense lawyer on your side.
The decision to pursue expungement is deeply personal and potentially life-altering. It demands a clear understanding of the process, its potential benefits, and its limitations. For many Houston residents burdened by a criminal record, these recent legal changes may offer a path to a brighter future, unencumbered by the mistakes of the past.
Expungement FAQ
If you’re considering expungement, you may have many questions. We can answer questions specific to your case in a personal and private consultation. However, here are some common answers to the most common questions we hear:
Q: How long does the expungement process take?
A: It varies, but typically anywhere from a few months to a year.
Q: Will expungement erase my record from every database?
A: While it should remove your record from public databases, some federal agencies might still have access to the information.
Q: Can I expunge multiple offenses?
A: Possibly, but it depends on the nature and timing of the offenses. This is where having an experienced Houston criminal defense attorney really pays off.
Q: What if my petition for expungement is denied?
A: If your petition for expungement is denied, don’t lose hope! You might be able to appeal the decision or explore other options, such as record sealing.
Remember, every case is unique. What worked for your cousin’s friend’s neighbor might not apply to you. That’s why it’s crucial to get personalized legal advice tailored to your specific situation by calling our criminal defense law firm today.
Contact Our Houston Expungement Attorneys
If you want to learn more about expungement in Houston, Texas, we can help. At Roger G. Jain & Associates, P.C., our Houston expungements lawyers can help you through this difficult time. We know that having a criminal record can jeopardize your entire future. Let us help you wipe the slate clean. Give us a call at (713) 981-0600 or fill out our confidential contact form to begin the expungement process. Even if you’re not a candidate for expungement, there may still be options available to you. Call today.

Roger Jain is a dedicated trial lawyer who assists his clients in the following areas of practice: civil litigation, business law, criminal defense, juvenile law, estate planning and family Law.