Expunctions provide individuals with a fresh start by erasing records of arrests or charges for criminal offenses when they were wrongly accused. An expungement is a powerful court order requiring law enforcement
agencies and criminal record repositories to destroy all records related to the arrest and prosecution.
This process typically results in the destruction of records such as jail files, police reports, prosecution documents, and court records.
Once your record is expunged, you are legally allowed to deny its existence. Additionally, it is illegal for anyone to publish information about an expunged offense.
For more information, feel free to book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our attorneys.
Several types of Texas criminal case dispositions may qualify for expunction. Below are common examples of cases that can be expunged:
If you need more information, please feel free to book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our attorneys.
The process to expunge a Texas criminal case typically takes 3 to 6 months from the time of filing to the court issuing an expunction order. This timeline can vary significantly depending on the court
and county handling the case. Some courts process cases faster, while others may take longer.
Once the expunction order is issued, state and local agencies listed in the petition are given 60 days to remove all records related to the criminal offense from their files. However, since most
records are now maintained digitally, this process often takes less than 60 days.
If you need more information, please feel free to book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our attorneys.
Your expunged criminal record should no longer appear in any governmental state or local database. To confirm that your case has been properly expunged, you can take the following steps:
Instructions for fingerprinting can be found on the Texas Department of Public Safety website:
No, you do not have to disclose an expunged Texas case on a job application. When a case is successfully expunged, the records related to the arrest or charge are legally erased and treated as if they never existed. As
a result, you generally have the right to deny the existence of the expunged case on a job application in Texas.
If your case appears on a background check before the court issues an expunction order, it is important to understand that the expunction order will not take effect until the court officially issues it. Once the court
orders your record to be expunged, all agencies listed in the expungement petition have 60-90 days to locate and destroy all records related to the expunged case or cases.
As part of our Texas expungement service, we provide FREE letters of representation to our clients at no additional cost. These letters are designed to assist in passing a background check before the
expungement order has been issued and the related records are removed.
In Texas, an expungement and a nondisclosure are two distinct legal processes that involve the sealing or removal of criminal records. Each has unique effects and eligibility requirements:
It’s crucial to consult with an attorney familiar with Texas laws and processes if you are seeking to clear or seal your criminal records. This information provides a general overview and may not reflect the latest legal developments or the specifics of your case. For personalized advice, consult a qualified attorney.
In Texas, there are waiting periods that must be observed before you can file for an expungement for a criminal case. The waiting periods depend on the outcome of your case and the type of offense involved. Below are the general guidelines for filing an expungement in Texas:
It’s important to note that these waiting periods may vary based on specific circumstances or changes in the law. Consulting with an attorney familiar with the current Texas expungement laws is strongly recommended to determine the exact waiting period applicable to your case.
At the Hopping Law Group, PC, we provide a straightforward flat fee structure for all of our cases. Our flat fee includes all associated costs, such as court fees and filing fees, ensuring complete transparency. The cost to expunge a case in any Texas county is $1,950.00, with no additional costs or hidden fees. To make the process more affordable, we also offer flexible payment plans.
Our flat fee covers a comprehensive range of services related to your expungement case, including:
We are dedicated to making the expungement process as easy as possible for our clients. Below are additional services we offer at no extra charge:
We strive to provide full-service representation at a predictable and transparent cost. If you’re looking to expunge a case in Texas, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to answer your questions and get started on your case.
Our firm does not charge by the hour; instead, we offer a flat fee structure for our services. We understand that hourly charges can be unpredictable and costly, which is why we provide an up-front fee that clearly outlines the scope of our services. This approach allows our clients to know exactly what they are paying for and helps them budget their expenses in advance.
We aim to provide the best value for your money, and we believe that a flat fee structure is the most efficient and cost-effective solution. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to assist you in any way we can.
Our firm does not charge by the hour; instead, we offer a flat fee structure for our services. We understand that hourly charges can be unpredictable and costly, which is why we provide an up-front fee that clearly
outlines the scope of our services. This approach allows our clients to know exactly what they are paying for and helps them budget their expenses in advance.
We aim to provide the best value for your money, and we believe that a flat fee structure is the most efficient and cost-effective solution. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We
are happy to assist you in any way we can.
A Texas nondisclosure is a legal process that allows individuals to seal certain criminal records from public view. This applies to cases where a person has successfully completed deferred adjudication for eligible offenses. Once a nondisclosure order is granted by the court, the sealed records are no longer accessible in most background checks conducted by employers, landlords, and the general public.
Why Might You Want a Nondisclosure?
Key Points to Consider:
If you believe you might be eligible for a Texas nondisclosure, it’s advisable to consult with a qualified attorney. They can assess your specific situation, guide you through the legal process, and help you understand the potential benefits and limitations of obtaining a nondisclosure order.
In Texas, certain criminal records can be sealed through a legal process known as an Order of Nondisclosure. This process prevents the public, including employers and landlords, from accessing specific criminal records, allowing individuals to move forward without the burden of a past offense affecting their opportunities.
Completion of Deferred Adjudication for Felony and Misdemeanor Offenses: To qualify, you must have successfully completed deferred adjudication probation for the offense in question. Some offenses require a waiting period before you can petition the court to seal your record.
Certain first-time misdemeanor convictions are eligible for an Order of Nondisclosure under Texas law. This includes offenses like Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) after a two-year waiting period. This provision allows first-time offenders to petition the court to seal their records for specific offenses.
Judicial discretion plays a significant role in granting or denying an Order of Nondisclosure. The court considers the specifics of your case and determines whether granting the order is in the best interest of justice.
An Order of Nondisclosure can be a valuable tool for individuals seeking to put past mistakes behind them. Understanding the eligibility requirements, including waiting periods and ineligible offenses, is an important first step toward clearing your criminal record in Texas. For personalized guidance, consult a qualified attorney who can evaluate your situation and help you through the process.
A Texas nondisclosure order allows you to legally deny the criminal offense covered by the order on employment and housing applications. The offense will not appear on most background checks, with limited exceptions for
specific government and licensing agencies as outlined in Texas Government Code Section 411.0765. This increased privacy can significantly enhance opportunities for securing jobs and housing.
In Texas, an expungement and a nondisclosure are two distinct legal processes for managing criminal records, each with different effects and eligibility requirements. Below is an overview of both:
It is important to consult with an attorney familiar with Texas laws to determine the best course of action for clearing or sealing your criminal records. This information is general and may not reflect the most recent legal updates or specific details of your case. Seeking personalized advice from a qualified attorney is recommended for accurate guidance.
The process of sealing a criminal offense in Texas typically takes 3 to 6 months from the time you file a petition for an Order of Nondisclosure to the complete sealing of your criminal record. The exact timeline can vary based on several factors:
A criminal justice agency may disclose criminal history record information that is the subject of an order of nondisclosure of criminal history record information under this subchapter to the following noncriminal justice agencies or entities only:
Under Texas law, the following offenses are not eligible to be sealed with an Order of Nondisclosure:
These offenses are permanently excluded from sealing under Texas nondisclosure laws. If you have questions about your eligibility or the specifics of your case, consult with a qualified attorney for guidance.
The waiting periods for obtaining a nondisclosure order in Texas vary depending on the type of offense and the terms of your deferred adjudicated probation. Below is a detailed breakdown:
All felony offenses require a five-year waiting period from the date you complete your deferred adjudicated probation before you are eligible to petition for a nondisclosure.
Many misdemeanor offenses are immediately eligible for nondisclosure upon the successful completion of deferred adjudicated probation, allowing you to apply right away.
The following misdemeanor offenses require a two-year waiting period after the completion of deferred adjudicated probation before filing for a nondisclosure:
The waiting period starts after all terms of your deferred adjudication probation, including probation completion, payment of fines, and restitution, have been fulfilled.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility or the applicable waiting period for your case, consulting with an attorney can help clarify the process.
No, in most cases, you are not required to disclose a sealed case on a job application in Texas. When a nondisclosure order is granted, your record is sealed from public access, meaning potential employers, landlords, and other entities cannot see it in standard background checks. You can legally deny the existence of the sealed case in most situations.
While you do not need to disclose a sealed case for most private-sector jobs, there are exceptions for certain government and licensed professions. Disclosure may still be required if you are applying for positions in:
If you are unsure whether to disclose a sealed case on a specific application, it’s advisable to consult with an attorney to review your situation and provide guidance tailored to your case.
For most background checks, a sealed criminal record will no longer appear once a nondisclosure order is granted. Employers, landlords, and the general public cannot access sealed records, allowing you to move forward without the stigma of your criminal history.
Even after your record is sealed, it may still be visible to certain entities, including:
These entities can access sealed records for specific purposes, such as security clearances, professional licensing, or law enforcement investigations. However, for most private-sector jobs and housing applications, your sealed record will not appear on background checks.
If your sealed record unexpectedly shows up on a background check, contact an attorney to ensure compliance with the nondisclosure order and address any issues.
Veterans in Texas may qualify for a nondisclosure order if they meet specific conditions. Eligibility requirements include:
Veterans can file for a nondisclosure order two years after completing the program. The court will evaluate the petition to determine whether granting the order aligns with the best interest of justice. If the order is granted, the court clerk will send it to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), which will seal the criminal record and notify other relevant agencies.
If you are a victim of human trafficking, Texas law provides a specific pathway for sealing certain criminal cases under strict eligibility criteria. This section applies in limited circumstances, but for those who qualify, it offers significant relief.
Once you meet the eligibility criteria, you can file a petition for a nondisclosure order with the court. The judge will review the evidence and determine if sealing your record is warranted. If the order is granted, your criminal history will be sealed from public view, offering you the chance to move forward without the stigma of a criminal record.
Given the complexity of the requirements under Tex. Gov’t Code § 411.0728, consulting with a knowledgeable attorney is strongly recommended. They can help you assess your eligibility, prepare your petition, and advocate for you throughout the process.
If your criminal case has been sealed with a nondisclosure order, it will no longer appear on most standard background checks conducted by employers, landlords, or the general public. A nondisclosure order prevents public access to the sealed record, allowing you to move forward without the stigma of your criminal history.
However, there are exceptions where sealed records may still be visible. Certain government entities and regulated industries can access sealed records, including:
These entities can view sealed records for specific purposes, such as professional licensing or law enforcement investigations. For most private-sector jobs and housing applications, however, the sealed case will not appear on a background check.
If your sealed case unexpectedly shows up on a background check, consult with an attorney to address the issue and ensure compliance with the nondisclosure order. They can assist in taking appropriate steps to resolve the situation.
If your Texas criminal record is still appearing on background checks after the court has issued a nondisclosure order, you may need to take steps to enforce the order. Here’s what you can do:
Confirm that the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and other relevant agencies have received and processed the nondisclosure order. The DPS is responsible for notifying other entities, including law enforcement and private databases, to update or seal their records.
If your record is still showing up on a background check, reach out to the entity that reported it (e.g., a background check company). Provide them with a copy of the nondisclosure order to ensure they comply with the law.
If agencies or entities fail to comply with the nondisclosure order, consult with your attorney. They can assist in determining the appropriate course of action, including sending formal notifications or initiating enforcement proceedings.
In cases where an agency or entity refuses to comply, your attorney can file a motion to enforce the nondisclosure order with the court. The court may impose penalties on entities that fail to honor the order.
Post-Order Support: Our firm provides FREE post-order support as part of our Texas nondisclosure services. If your record is still appearing after your nondisclosure order has been granted, we can help dispute the issue with the appropriate entities to ensure compliance. Reach out to us for assistance.
If your case appears on a background check before the court issues a nondisclosure order, it’s important to understand that the record will not be sealed until the court grants the order. Once the nondisclosure order is
issued, agencies listed in the petition are required to update their records promptly, ensuring that the sealed information is no longer publicly accessible.
To support you during this process, our firm provides FREE Letters to your Employer as part of our Texas nondisclosure services. These letters can help address background check concerns while your
nondisclosure petition is pending, giving you peace of mind at no extra cost.
At the Hopping Law Group, PC, we provide a straightforward flat fee structure for all of our cases. Our flat fee of $1,950.00 includes all associated costs, such as court fees and filing fees, ensuring transparency with no hidden costs. We understand that the cost of sealing a case can be significant, so we offer payment plans to make the process more affordable.
Our flat fee covers a comprehensive range of services related to your case, including:
We are committed to providing full-service representation at a transparent and predictable cost. Our goal is to make the expungement process as easy as possible for our clients, and we are happy to answer any questions you may have. If you’re looking to expunge a case in Texas, please don’t hesitate to contact us to get started.
At our firm, we believe in providing transparent and predictable pricing. Instead of charging by the hour, we offer a flat fee structure for our services. This approach eliminates the uncertainty and potentially high
costs associated with hourly billing, giving our clients peace of mind.
With our flat fee structure, you know upfront exactly what you’re paying for, allowing you to budget your expenses confidently. This method ensures you receive the best value for your money without unexpected charges.
If you have any questions about our flat fee services, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out to us for more information or assistance!
Yes, our Texas Nondisclosure flat fee includes all filing fees and associated costs. We understand that the nondisclosure process can involve various expenses, including court filing fees. To ensure transparency and
convenience, our flat fee is designed to cover all these costs.
With us, you can have peace of mind knowing there are no hidden fees or unexpected charges. The agreed-upon flat fee is all you’ll pay, making the process straightforward and stress-free.
A Texas pardon is an official act of clemency granted by the Governor of Texas, typically following a recommendation by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. It acknowledges your rehabilitation and forgives the offense without removing it from your criminal record. Most importantly, it makes you eligible to expunge the case or cases for which you were pardoned.
Why Might You Need a Texas Pardon?
If you believe a Texas pardon could benefit you, consult an experienced attorney to evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.
A Texas pardon has several significant effects, but it’s important to understand its limitations as well. Here’s what a pardon can do:
Limitations of a Pardon:
A Texas pardon can be an invaluable tool for restoring rights and reducing the impact of a past conviction on your future. If you have questions about how a pardon could help you, reach out to a knowledgeable attorney for guidance.
There is technically no mandatory waiting period for convictions, including those resulting in community supervision, before applying for a Texas pardon. However, we recommend waiting at least five years from the date you completed your sentence, including incarceration, probation, parole, or payment of fines and restitution. Allowing time to pass helps demonstrate rehabilitation and increases the likelihood of receiving a favorable decision.
The longer the time between completing your sentence and submitting your application, the better your chances of success. Demonstrating a sustained period of law-abiding behavior significantly strengthens your application.
For cases involving deferred adjudication probation, there is a 10-year waiting period from the date you complete your probation before you can apply for a Texas pardon. This waiting period helps establish a clear record of rehabilitation and improves the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
If you’re considering applying for a Texas pardon, consult an experienced attorney to evaluate your circumstances and provide guidance tailored to your case.
Eligibility for a Texas pardon is evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. However, certain types of cases are specifically excluded from consideration:
If you have questions about your eligibility for a pardon, an experienced attorney can assess your situation and guide you through the process.
Can a Texas Pardon Restore My Gun Rights?
Yes, a Texas pardon can restore your firearm rights under Texas law, but there are specific requirements and limitations to consider. If you have lost your right to own or possess firearms due to a felony conviction or certain misdemeanor convictions, a full pardon from the Governor of Texas can reinstate those rights in the state. However, federal restrictions may still apply.
If restoring your gun rights is a priority, consult an experienced attorney to determine your eligibility and guide you through the process. They can also assist with pursuing an expungement to ensure your rights are fully reinstated under both state and federal law.
Yes, you can seek an expungement if your Texas criminal conviction has been pardoned. Under Texas law, a full pardon makes you eligible to file a petition for expunction, which permanently removes the record of the conviction from both state and federal databases.
If you have received a pardon and are seeking an expungement, consulting an experienced attorney is essential. They can guide you through the legal process, ensure all paperwork is filed correctly, and help you achieve a clean slate.
Texas pardons are granted by the Governor of Texas upon recommendation from the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles.
The Texas pardon process typically takes 1 year to 1.5 years from the submission of the application to the final decision. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
From the submission of the application to the Governor’s decision, the entire process generally takes 12 to 18 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the Board’s workload.
If there are questions or concerns during any stage of the process, applicants are encouraged to seek guidance to ensure a smooth and successful experience.
At The Hopping Law Group, PC, we offer a comprehensive evaluation and representation process for Texas pardon applications. Our fees are structured as follows:
Please note that we only accept a limited number of cases each year to focus on those we do accept. The evaluation fee is deducted from the representation fee upon acceptance.
For more information or to begin the evaluation process, please contact us at (855) 773-4669 or visit our website at texasexpungementlawyer.com.
Yes, our flat fee for handling your Texas pardon application includes all necessary fees and costs associated with the process. This comprehensive fee covers both the legal services and any additional expenses required to complete your application.
We aim to provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs, ensuring that all necessary steps are covered under our flat fee. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us for more details.
Yes, Federal pardons and Presidential pardons are the same. They are issued exclusively by the President of the United States for federal crimes.
A federal pardon is an official act of clemency granted by the President of the United States for offenses against federal law. It is a form of forgiveness that recognizes rehabilitation and removes some of the penalties associated with a federal conviction. However, unlike an expungement, a federal pardon does not erase or seal your criminal record.
If you believe a federal pardon could benefit you, it is important to consult an experienced attorney to guide you through the application process and present a compelling case to the Office of the Pardon Attorney.
A federal pardon is an official act of forgiveness granted by the President of the United States for a federal offense. While it does not erase or seal your criminal record, it has several important effects that can positively impact your life:
A federal pardon can provide significant relief from the long-term effects of a conviction and help individuals move forward with their lives. If you believe a federal pardon could benefit you, consult an experienced attorney to evaluate your case and guide you through the application process.
Yes, a federal pardon can restore your firearm rights under federal law, but it depends on the specific terms and conditions of the pardon. If you have lost your right to own or possess firearms due to a federal conviction, a pardon from the President of the United States may include a restoration of your gun rights.
If your firearm rights are not fully restored through the federal pardon process, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you explore alternative legal remedies to address state or other restrictions.
A federal pardon can be a critical step in regaining your firearm rights, but the process requires careful consideration of both federal and state laws. If restoring your gun rights is a priority, it is essential to ensure your pardon application highlights this request and addresses any relevant conditions.
Yes, there is a waiting period before you can apply for a presidential pardon. Under the Department of Justice’s rules governing petitions for executive clemency (28 C.F.R. §§ 1.1 et seq.), an applicant must satisfy a minimum waiting period of five years before becoming eligible to apply for a presidential pardon of a federal conviction.
Even after meeting the waiting period requirement, preparing a strong application is essential. Highlighting your rehabilitation, community contributions, and reasons for seeking clemency can significantly impact the success of your application. Consulting an experienced attorney can help ensure your petition complies with all requirements and effectively presents your case.
Eligibility for a federal pardon is determined on a case-by-case basis and is ultimately at the discretion of the President of the United States. A federal pardon is only applicable for federal offenses—violations of U.S. federal law—not state or local crimes.
A federal pardon can restore certain rights, reduce the stigma of a federal conviction, and, in some cases, address restrictions related to employment, firearms, or immigration. If you believe you may be eligible, consulting with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the application process and improve your chances of success.
Federal pardons are granted exclusively by the President of the United States, as outlined in the U.S. Constitution.
The process of filing for a presidential pardon is lengthy and thorough, often taking several months to several years from start to finish. The timeline depends on factors such as the preparation of your application, the complexity of your case, and the workload of the Office of the Pardon Attorney.
From preparation to final decision, the entire process of a presidential pardon application typically takes several years, depending on individual circumstances.
Ensuring your application is complete, accurate, and compelling can help avoid delays. Consulting with an experienced attorney can streamline the preparation and submission of your application, improving its effectiveness and helping you navigate the lengthy process with confidence.
Our firm is dedicated to providing transparent and comprehensive services for federal pardon submissions. We disclose our costs and fees upfront to all prospective clients.
Our goal is to provide transparent pricing and exceptional legal representation throughout your federal pardon process. If you would like to learn more or schedule an initial consultation, please contact us directly.
Yes, our firm’s fee for handling your federal pardon submission is all-inclusive, covering all fees and costs associated with the process. We believe in transparent pricing, so there are no hidden charges or unexpected expenses.
Our goal is to ensure a smooth and stress-free process with no additional fees or costs. If you have any further questions about our services, please feel free to contact us. We’re happy to help.
At Hopping Law Group, PC, we specialize exclusively in the removal of criminal records, offering comprehensive services to help clients overcome past legal issues and move forward with confidence. Our practice areas include:
We assist clients in clearing their criminal records through expungement, which legally removes arrests, charges, or convictions from public records. This process is ideal for individuals who were acquitted, had charges dismissed, or completed deferred prosecution for certain offenses.
For those not eligible for expungement, we offer services to obtain Orders of Nondisclosure. This legal action seals parts of your criminal record from public view, making it inaccessible to most employers and the general public. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals who have successfully completed deferred adjudication.
We guide clients through the process of obtaining a pardon from the state of Texas. A pardon can restore certain rights lost due to a conviction and serves as official forgiveness for the offense.
Our firm assists clients in seeking pardons for federal offenses. We navigate the complex application process to help restore rights and alleviate the consequences of federal convictions.
Beyond legal remedies, we offer services to remove your expunged or sealed records from over 600 commercial databases, mugshot sites, and credit reporting agencies. This ensures a thorough removal of your record from public access.
Our firm is dedicated to providing personalized and effective solutions tailored to each client’s unique situation. If you’re seeking to clear your criminal record and reclaim your future, we’re here to help.
Our firm, Hopping Law Group, PC, is located in Texas, and we proudly serve clients throughout the state. Our primary office is based in Dallas, Texas, but we also offer virtual consultations and online case management tools, enabling us to assist clients statewide efficiently and effectively.
Whether you’re in Dallas, Houston, Austin, San Antonio, or anywhere else in Texas, our team is ready to provide expert legal services to help you clear your record.
Additionally, we handle federal pardon cases nationwide. No matter where you are located in the United States, we have the expertise to guide you through the federal clemency process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your goals.
Hopping Law Group, PC, has been proudly serving clients for over 20 years. Since our founding, we have focused exclusively on helping individuals clear their criminal records and regain control of their future. With decades of experience, we have successfully guided countless clients through the processes of expungements, nondisclosures, state and federal pardons, and criminal record repairs.
Our commitment to providing personalized, expert legal representation has earned us a reputation as a trusted leader in criminal record clearing services. Whether you’re seeking to expunge your record, seal it, or apply for a pardon, our experienced team is here to help.
Yes, we can help! While our firm, Hopping Law Group, PC, is based in Texas, we assist clients across the United States in specific situations.
If you are located outside of Texas but have a Texas state criminal case, we can help you with expungements, nondisclosures, or pardons for that case. Our team has extensive experience with Texas state laws and can guide you through the process, no matter where you live.
Additionally, we handle federal pardon cases for individuals in all 50 states and U.S. territories. Whether you’re applying for a federal pardon or seeking clemency, we have the expertise and resources to navigate the federal clemency process on your behalf.
If you have a Texas criminal case or need assistance with a federal pardon, contact us today to discuss your situation and how we can assist you.