Criminal records and outstanding warrants can affect nearly every part of your life—from employment and housing opportunities to professional licenses and routine traffic stops. Many people in Austin and Travis County are unaware that arrests, even when charges are dismissed or never filed, can still appear on background checks unless legal action is taken.
The Austin 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 steps can help protect your reputation and prevent future legal complications.
Understanding Criminal Records in Texas
A Texas criminal record may include more than just convictions. It can contain:
- Arrest records
- Charges that were 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 old or dismissed cases may continue to appear.
Outstanding Warrants in Austin & Travis County
A warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take action, most commonly an arrest. Warrants may be issued for reasons such as:
- Failure to appear in court
- Unpaid fines or fees
- Probable cause related to a criminal investigation
- Violations of probation or bond conditions
Warrants do not expire on their own. If you believe a warrant exists, addressing it proactively—before a traffic stop or arrest—can often lead to a more controlled resolution, including negotiated surrender or 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 delete the information
- You may legally deny that the arrest occurred (with limited exceptions)
Common situations that may qualify for expunction include:
- Arrests that did not result in charges
- Cases dismissed without conviction (in many circumstances)
- Acquittals (not guilty verdicts)
- Certain completed pretrial diversion programs
Eligibility depends on the type of offense, case outcome, and statutory waiting periods.
Orders of Nondisclosure (Record Sealing)
If expunction is not available, an order of nondisclosure may be an option. This process seals criminal records from public view, meaning:
- Most employers and landlords cannot see the record
- Law enforcement and certain 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 satisfied.
Why Addressing Records and Warrants Matters
Ignoring criminal records or assuming warrants will resolve themselves can lead to serious consequences. Addressing these issues with legal guidance can help:
- Prevent unexpected arrests
- Improve employment and housing opportunities
- Protect professional licenses
- Reduce long-term legal exposure
- Restore peace of mind
An experienced criminal defense attorney can review your history and determine the best legal solution.
Austin Criminal Defense Support from Bryan Fagan, PLLC
The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC assists clients throughout Austin and Central Texas with warrant resolution, criminal record review, expunctions, and orders of nondisclosure. Our Austin Office understands Travis County court procedures and works diligently to help clients move forward without the burden of past legal issues.