02/02/2026
Expungement (or expunction) is a legal process that allows individuals to destroy or seal eligible arrest and conviction records, removing them from public view. It is typically available for cases resulting in acquittal, dismissal, or non-conviction, while some minor convictions may qualify. Once granted, individuals can legally deny the incident occurred, significantly improving employment and housing prospects.
Eligibility Requirements for Expungement
Non-Convictions: Arrests that did not lead to charges, or charges that were dismissed, dropped, or resulted in a "not guilty" verdict.
Specific Misdemeanors/Felonies: Certain low-level offenses, especially if no prior convictions exist.
Juvenile Records: Often eligible for expungement upon reaching a certain age.
Pardons: A governor or presidential pardon may make a conviction eligible for expungement.
Ineligibility: Serious crimes like murder, r**e, or assault with a deadly weapon are generally not eligible. In Texas, straight probation for Class A/B misdemeanors is generally ineligible.
