Criminal records and outstanding warrants can continue to affect your life long after an arrest or court case has ended. Many individuals living in The Heights, Houston, and throughout Harris County are unaware that arrests, dismissed charges, or deferred adjudication cases may still appear on background checks unless specific legal action is taken. These records can interfere with employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licensing, and everyday interactions with law enforcement.
The Heights Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC helps individuals understand how Texas criminal records work, how to address active warrants, and whether they may qualify for expunction or record sealing (order of nondisclosure). Taking proactive legal steps can protect your reputation, reduce stress, and prevent future legal complications.
Understanding Criminal Records in Texas
A Texas criminal record often includes more than just convictions. It may reflect:
- Arrests, even when no formal charges were filed
- Charges that were later dismissed
- Pending criminal cases
- Deferred adjudication outcomes
- Misdemeanor and felony convictions
Employers, landlords, licensing boards, and government agencies frequently access these records during background checks. Without legal relief, even non-conviction records may remain visible to the public.
Outstanding Warrants in The Heights & Harris County
A warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take action—most commonly an arrest. In Harris County, warrants may be issued for reasons such as:
- Failure to appear in court
- Unpaid fines or court costs
- 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:
- Coordinated surrender
- Negotiated bond arrangements
- Court appearances arranged through counsel
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 the arrest occurred (with limited statutory 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 offense type, case outcome, and required waiting periods under Texas law.
Orders of Nondisclosure (Record Sealing)
If expunction is not available, an order of nondisclosure may be an alternative. 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
Orders of nondisclosure are commonly available for qualifying deferred adjudication cases once all legal requirements are met.
Why Addressing Records and Warrants 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 for you and your family
An experienced Heights criminal defense attorney can evaluate your situation and recommend the most effective legal path forward.
Criminal Defense Support from the Heights Office
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC assists clients throughout The Heights and Harris County with:
- Warrant resolution
- Criminal record review
- Expunction petitions
- Orders of nondisclosure
Our Heights Office understands Harris County court procedures and works diligently to help clients move forward without the burden of past criminal records.