If your criminal case was dismissed in Texas, you might assume your record is automatically wiped clean. Unfortunately, that’s one of the most common misconceptions about the expunction process. Under Texas law, a dismissal doesn’t equal automatic expunction. To truly clear your record, you must file a separate legal action. At Ceja Law Firm, our…
Category: Expunctions
Is an Expunction Automatic in Texas After a Dismissal?
Many people in Texas mistakenly believe that once their criminal case is dismissed, their record is automatically cleared. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In Texas, even if charges are dismissed or a case ends without a conviction, the arrest and court records still exist and are publicly accessible unless you take legal action to…
How do I know if I am eligible for an expunction of a Texas criminal case?
In Texas, the best way to put a criminal case in the past is to obtain an expunction of the charges. An expunction of a criminal case erases an arrest from your record. Legally speaking, after an expunction, it is as if the incident never happened. But how do you know if you are eligible…
What is the process for obtaining an expunction in Houston?
Every year in Houston, thousands of expunctions are filed. Most cases that are expunged are misdemeanors with many being DWI expunctions, theft or shoplifting expunctions, domestic violence expunctions or prostitution expunctions. No matter what the charge, obtaining an expunction in a criminal case is the best possible result as it results in all records of…
Can shoplifting be a felony in Texas?
If you are arrested for shoplifting in Texas, you are likely feeling anxious about the potential criminal penalties or damage to your reputation or job prospects. One common concern among first- time shoplifting defendants is whether shoplifting is treated as a misdemeanor or felony under Texas law. A felony conviction can carry steeper penalties and…
What happens if you get caught shoplifting at Costco?
Although shoplifting at Costco is relatively rare compared to other large retailers, every year multiple people are arrested in Costco stores throughout Houston and charged with theft (which is how shoplifting is charged in Texas). If you are caught shoplifting at Costco, it is critical to do everything possible to keep a conviction off of…
Can You Seal Your Criminal Record in Texas?
Dealing with the aftermath of a criminal conviction can be overwhelming. Not only must you pay any fines and do the time required of you by the court, but you are also left to deal with the impact of your conviction for the remainder of your life. From finding a new job to applying for…
