Skip to content
Criminal records and outstanding warrants can follow a person for years and create serious obstacles in everyday life. Many individuals in Fort Worth and Tarrant County are surprised to learn that arrests, dismissed cases, or deferred adjudication outcomes can still appear on background checks unless specific legal action is taken. These records may affect employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licensing, and interactions with law enforcement.
The Fort Worth Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC helps individuals understand Texas criminal records, address active warrants, and determine eligibility for expunction or record sealing (order of nondisclosure). Taking proactive steps can help protect your reputation and prevent future legal problems.
Understanding Criminal Records in Texas
A Texas criminal record may include more than just convictions. It can reflect:
- Arrests, even if charges were never filed
- Charges that were dismissed
- Pending criminal cases
- Deferred adjudication outcomes
- Misdemeanor and felony convictions
Employers, landlords, licensing agencies, and government entities often access these records during background checks. Without legal relief, even non-conviction records may remain visible to the public.
Outstanding Warrants in Fort Worth & Tarrant County
A warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take action, most commonly an arrest. In Tarrant County, warrants may be issued for reasons such as:
- Failure to appear in court
- Unpaid fines or court fees
- Probable cause related to a criminal investigation
- Violations of probation or bond conditions
Warrants do not expire on their own. Addressing a warrant proactively—before a traffic stop or unexpected arrest—can often allow for a controlled resolution, such as negotiated surrender or coordinated bond arrangements.
Expunctions in Texas (Record Deletion)
An expunction permanently removes eligible criminal records from public databases. When an expunction is granted:
- Arrest and case records are destroyed
- Background check companies must remove the information
- You may legally deny that the arrest occurred (with limited exceptions)
Situations that may qualify for expunction include:
- Arrests that did not result in charges
- Certain dismissed cases
- Acquittals (not guilty verdicts)
- Some completed pretrial diversion programs
Eligibility depends on the type of offense, the outcome of the case, and statutory waiting periods under Texas law.
Orders of Nondisclosure (Record Sealing)
If expunction is not available, an order of nondisclosure may be an alternative option. Record sealing limits public access to criminal records, meaning:
- Most employers and landlords cannot see the record
- Law enforcement and certain government agencies may still access it
- The record is removed from standard background checks
Nondisclosure is commonly available for certain deferred adjudication cases once all legal requirements are met.
Why Addressing Warrants and Records Matters
Ignoring criminal records or assuming warrants will resolve themselves can lead to serious consequences. Addressing these matters with legal guidance can help:
- Prevent unexpected arrests
- Improve employment and housing opportunities
- Protect professional and occupational licenses
- Reduce long-term legal exposure
- Provide peace of mind
An experienced Fort Worth criminal defense attorney can evaluate your situation and recommend the best legal path forward.
Fort Worth Criminal Defense Support from Bryan Fagan, PLLC
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC assists clients throughout Fort Worth and Tarrant County with warrant resolution, criminal record review, expunctions, and orders of nondisclosure. Our Fort Worth Office understands local court procedures and works diligently to help clients move forward without the burden of past criminal records.
