Expunction of records refers to the process wherein a person, under certain circumstances, can petition the court to have their arrest record, charged crime or even certain convictions erased. When your records are expunged, there is no history of the alleged criminal acts which you were accused of committing. Your record is clear of any wrong doing, and you can deny it occurring. Unfortunately, for people who have been arrested in El Paso or surrounding areas, Texas law allows expunction of records only under very limited circumstances. The Aranda Law Firm can help you to determine whether your records could be expunged and can assist with the process of applying. Expunction of records is different than a non-disclosure. The Aranda Law Firm can help you with both matters.
How to Apply for Expunction of Records
To apply for expunction of records, you must meet the criteria. You can only have records expunged if:
- you were arrested but never convicted of a crime
- the charges against you were dismissed
- if you were a juvenile and the offense was a qualifying misdemeanor
- if your offense was a minor one involving alcohol
- if you were arrested for certain other minor offenses
- if you were pardoned
- if you were acquitted by the Criminal Court of Appeals
You cannot have your records expunged if you received a deferred adjudication, if you got probation, or under certain other circumstances. Aranda Law Firm can help you understand if expunction of records is an option for you. If you qualify, you will need to apply for a petition of expunction. A hearing will be scheduled, you’ll give input, and the court may grant your petition if you meet the requirements.
Getting Help With Expunction of Records
It is a good idea to get help with expunction of records if you want to ensure you maximize your chances of getting your name cleared. Contact Aranda Law Firm to learn more about how our El Paso firm can help you.
