A Knowledgeable San Antonio Expungement Attorney Explains the Process

Sealing records and related issues require solid experience

Criminal records have long-lasting effects on your life. They can prevent you from working in certain fields or impact your educational opportunities.

In certain circumstances, you may have your criminal record expunged or sealed from public view. While sealing a criminal record simply hides it from the public, expunging a record essentially deletes your criminal offense as though it never happened.

Both of these processes are extremely complicated and require the services of an experienced expungement attorney. In the San Antonio area, Joseph P. Appelt, P.C. can review your case and let you know if record sealing or expungement is an option for you.

An expungement lawyer explains the effect of the process

Before attempting to have your criminal record expunged or sealed with the help of a criminal defense lawyer, you should understand the practical effects of these processes. Both processes affect your criminal record in the following ways:

• It is inaccessible to potential employers and educational institutions.
• It cannot be seen by the public.
• It is inaccessible to agencies that provide public assistance.

Expungement differs from record sealing in one key way. After expungement, Texas law allows you to publicly deny the existence of the expunction order, and the offense, arrest and conviction are treated as though they never happened. As far as the public is concerned, a criminal offense that is expunged does not exist.

When a criminal record is sealed, certain law enforcement and government agencies can still view it, but you may deny the offense when applying for a job, seeking placement in an educational program or applying for public assistance. A reputable expungement attorney can explain these options in more detail.

Which criminal records can be expunged or sealed?

Certain types of criminal offenses may never be sealed or expunged under Texas law. These include the following crimes:

For other criminal offenses, a reputable expungement attorney can explain the rules and regulations regarding requests to seal or clear your record.

Felonies may be cleared or expunged five years after any deferred adjudication community supervision is completed. And most misdemeanors may be cleared or expunged immediately after any deferred adjudication community supervision is completed. Other misdemeanors require a two-year wait.

The right San Antonio expungement attorney can help you rebuild your reputation

Expungement and record sealing are two of the most complicated aspects of criminal law. In San Antonio, Joseph P. Appelt, P.C. can examine your case and advise you if either is a realistic option for you. Contact us online or at [ln::phone]. Our offices are easily accessible, and we accept all major credit cards. Se habla espanol.