Having a criminal record can put you in many difficult positions with work, school, or future plans. Those with criminal records often find that their future career, education, and financial opportunities have limitations. For example, when applying for most jobs and housing, most applications ask whether you have a criminal record. Even while most employers and landlords may give you the ability to explain your situation, you may still miss out on the excellent job and housing options due to your criminal record.
However, there is an option for some individuals to expunge their criminal records and avoid the challenging situations that come with a criminal record. The expungement process can be challenging to complete and handle on your own, so speaking with an experienced attorney is vital to your success.
What Is An Expunction?
Expungement is the legal process of removing arrest and conviction records. The petition will remove the offense from your criminal record and force state agencies and private companies to erase references to your crime from their files. An expunction is extremely valuable for those with criminal records, but not everyone is eligible for expungement.
Each individual and their criminal record are unique and require thorough evaluation to provide the best course of action. An experienced criminal defense lawyer will be able to explain in detail your eligibility and what they need to gather for you to have a successful expungement. The sooner you contact your lawyer, the more time they will have to collect your case’s necessary information and documentation.
What Is a Non-Disclosure?
If the type of case and outcome of the arrest does not qualify for an expunction, it may qualify for a non-disclosure. Non-disclosure is a legal process that allows the arrest to be sealed from the public, not law enforcement, the district attorney, or a few other exceptions. However, an experienced criminal defense attorney like Sophia Martinez can help you determine your eligibility.
4 Reasons to Seek Expungement for Your Criminal Record in Texas
The expungement process is highly beneficial if the individual qualifies for the removal of their records. While the process can be challenging for those without legal representation, many are interested in the benefits that come with an expunged record, including:
College
Because of past mistakes and misjudgments, those with arrest records will often seek expungements of their arrest for educational purposes. Receiving a higher education can lead you to many extraordinary opportunities.
Employment
Unfortunately, many individuals with an arrest record have trouble finding jobs. They will face high barriers that restrict them from employment opportunities that provide fair pay and benefits for themselves and their families. A person with an arrest record must always answer honestly and will not always be allowed to explain their situation.
Housing
Most landlords will look into a person’s background before allowing them to stay on their property. With an expunged record, the individual will be able to successfully live in areas they may not have been able to with a criminal record.
Social Reasons
An arrest record can harm your reputation and because it is public information it will allow others to see your arrest. This can harm you and your family’s social environment, including friendships, family relationships, and community relationships.
An arrest record can cause many challenges in your life. If you are seeking an expungement of your arrest, talk with a dependable defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Contact a Texas Defense Attorney at Sophia Martinez Law
If you’re interested in seeking legal advice and representation for your expungement process, contact Former Assistant District Attorney Sophia C. Martinez as soon as possible. With her experience and knowledge, she has the resources to provide you with the best possible outcome for your case. She dedicates her practice to providing clients with the legal advice they can rely on and trust. Fluent in English and Spanish, she offers her services in both languages to make sure all her clients can communicate their concerns comfortably.
Call (210) 226-3000 or fill out our contact form for more information on how Sophia Martinez Law can help you today.