Expunctions and Orders of Non-Disclosure

If you have ever been arrested or charged with a crime, you have a criminal record. Even if you were found not guilty or your case was dismissed, you still have a public criminal record with that information. In general, whenever you apply for a loan, employment, or housing, your criminal record will be checked and even a dismissed case can count against you. For this reason, it is important to retain a Plano criminal defense attorney and apply to have your record expunged if you have ever been arrested or charged with a crime.

Expunctions

An expunction is the only way that you will be able to have a clean record. Expunctions, however, are only granted if you were acquitted or if your case was dismissed. Although your record does state that you were found not guilty or that you were not charged with a crime, anyone who is viewing your record can still hold an arrest or a charge against you. Not all charges are eligible for expunctions. Contact a Plano expunction attorney to determine whether your record is able to be expunged.

Orders of Non-Disclosure

If you received deferred adjudication and have completed your probation period, you are not eligible under Texas law to have your record expunged. You are, however, able to file a petition for non-disclosure. Non-disclosure means that your record will be sealed from the public; it cannot be accessed by potential employers or landlords and you are legally allowed to withhold the information that is sealed from non-governmental agencies. Law enforcement officers, governmental agencies and certain organizations, such as the State Bar of Texas, will still be able to view your file. While an order of non-disclosure is not a clean record, it can go a long way in helping you find gainful employment, obtain a loan, or be approved for renting.

Many misdemeanor charges have no waiting period between the completion of probation and when you can petition an order of non-disclosure. Some charges have a two year waiting period, and felony charges have a five year waiting period. A Plano non-disclosure lawyer can give you more information and help you petition for an order of non-disclosure.

Plano, Texas Expunction and Non-Disclosure Attorney

At the Zendeh Del Law Firm, our lawyers have the experience and the knowledge that you need to determine if you are eligible for an expunction or order of non-disclosure.

 Contact a Plano Expunction and Non-Disclosure Attorney at our firm for a free consultation.