Texas Warrants, Criminal Records & Expunctions

Discovering that you may have an outstanding warrant, a criminal record, or a past arrest appearing on a background check can be stressful and life-altering. These issues can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and even routine traffic stops. The Houston Corporate Office of the Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC helps individuals across Houston and Harris County understand Texas warrants, criminal records, and the legal options available to clear or limit access to their history.

Texas law provides specific remedies—such as expunctions and orders of nondisclosure—that may allow eligible individuals to remove or seal criminal records. Knowing your rights and acting promptly can prevent unnecessary legal trouble and long-term consequences.

Understanding Arrest Warrants in Texas

A warrant is a court order authorizing law enforcement to take action, most commonly an arrest. In Texas, warrants may be issued for reasons such as:

Failure to appear in court
Unpaid fines or violations
Probable cause related to a criminal investigation
Probation or bond violations

Outstanding warrants do not expire on their own. If you believe a warrant may exist, addressing it proactively—before an arrest occurs—can often lead to better outcomes, including negotiated surrender or bond arrangements.

Texas Criminal Records Explained

A criminal record in Texas may include more than just convictions. It can show:

Arrests, even if charges were dismissed
Pending criminal cases
Deferred adjudication outcomes
Convictions for misdemeanors or felonies

These records are often accessed by employers, landlords, licensing boards, and government agencies. Many people are surprised to learn that even a dismissed case can still appear on a background check unless further legal action is taken.

Expunctions in Texas

An expunction is a legal process that permanently deletes eligible criminal records from public databases. When an expunction is granted:

Arrest and case records are destroyed
Background check companies are required to remove the information
You may legally deny that the arrest ever occurred (with limited exceptions)

Common situations that may qualify for expunction include:

Arrests that did not result in charges
Dismissed cases (in many circumstances)
Acquittals (not guilty verdicts)
Certain completed pretrial diversion programs

Eligibility depends on the case outcome, offense type, and timing under Texas law.

Orders of Nondisclosure (Record Sealing)

If expunction is not available, an order of nondisclosure may be an option. This 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 cases involving deferred adjudication, provided all legal requirements are met.

Why Addressing Warrants and Records Matters

Ignoring a warrant or assuming a criminal record will “go away” can create long-term problems. Addressing these issues with legal guidance can help:

Prevent unexpected arrests
Improve employment and housing opportunities
Restore peace of mind
Protect future legal rights

An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate your situation and determine the best path forward.

Houston Criminal Defense Support from Bryan Fagan, PLLC

The Law Office of Bryan Fagan, PLLC assists clients throughout Houston and across Texas with warrant resolution, criminal record review, expunctions, and record sealing. Our Houston Corporate Office understands local court procedures and works to help clients protect their reputations and futures.

How Criminal Records Impact Your Life

Criminal records can have far-reaching consequences on various aspects of an individual's life, including employment opportunities, housing options, and even personal relationships. Many employers and landlords conduct background checks, and a criminal record can lead to disqualification from job positions or rental agreements.

For instance, individuals with felony convictions may find it particularly challenging to secure stable employment or housing. Understanding the implications of a criminal record is crucial for anyone looking to move forward and rebuild their life after legal troubles.

Eligibility Criteria for Expunction in Texas

To qualify for expunction in Texas, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria, which can vary based on the nature of the offense and the outcome of the case. Generally, expunction is available for arrests that did not result in charges, cases that were dismissed, or acquittals.

Additionally, certain pretrial diversion programs may also lead to eligibility for expunction. It is essential to consult with a legal expert to assess individual circumstances and determine the likelihood of obtaining an expunction, as statutory waiting periods and other factors can influence eligibility.

The Process of Obtaining an Expunction

The expunction process in Texas involves several steps, starting with filing a petition in the appropriate court. This petition must include details about the arrest and the reasons for seeking expunction, and it may require supporting documentation to demonstrate eligibility.

Once the petition is filed, a hearing may be scheduled where a judge will review the case. If granted, the expunction order mandates that all records related to the arrest be destroyed, allowing individuals to move forward without the burden of a criminal record affecting their future opportunities.

Understanding Orders of Nondisclosure

Orders of nondisclosure serve as an alternative to expunction for individuals who may not qualify for complete record deletion but still wish to limit access to their criminal records. This legal remedy allows certain criminal records to be sealed, making them inaccessible to most employers and the public.

It's important to note that not all offenses are eligible for nondisclosure, and the process involves filing a petition similar to that of expunction. Individuals seeking this option should consult with a legal professional to understand the specific requirements and implications of obtaining an order of nondisclosure.

Texas Criminal Records, Warrants & Expunctions