Record Clearing - Madson Law

A Past Mistake Shouldn’t Define Your Future

An arrest, criminal charge, or conviction can continue affecting your life long after the case is over. Background checks are now a routine part of applying for jobs, renting an apartment, obtaining professional licenses, and even pursuing educational opportunities. Even when charges are dismissed or a case does not result in a conviction, the record often remains visible unless action is taken to remove or seal it.

Texas law provides many people with opportunities to clear or limit access to their criminal records through expunctions and orders of nondisclosure. Eligibility depends on how the case was resolved, the type of offense involved, and other factors unique to your situation.

At Madson Law, we help clients understand their options, determine whether they qualify for record clearing, and guide them through the process from beginning to end.

Record Clearing Can Open New Opportunities

A criminal record can create obstacles that have nothing to do with your character or your current circumstances. Record clearing may help reduce barriers related to:

Employment opportunities
Housing applications
Professional licensing
Educational programs
Financial opportunities
Personal reputation

Many people assume a dismissed case automatically disappears from their record. Unfortunately, that’s not how the process works. In many situations, additional legal action is required before a record can be removed or sealed.

Expungements and Orders of Nondisclosure

Texas provides two primary forms of record clearing: expungements (known legally as expunctions) and orders of nondisclosure.

Expungement (Expunction)

An expungement permanently removes eligible records from public access. In many cases, it allows a person to legally deny that an arrest or criminal case occurred. Cases that may qualify for expungement can include:

Cases that were dismissed
Cases resulting in acquittal
Certain completed diversion programs
Arrests that never resulted in formal charges
Other qualifying situations under Texas law

Order of Nondisclosure

An order of nondisclosure does not erase a record, but restricts public access to it.

While certain government agencies may still be able to view the record, it generally will not appear during routine background checks conducted by employers, landlords, or members of the public. Nondisclosure may be available in some cases involving:

Deferred adjudication
Certain misdemeanor convictions
Other qualifying offenses under Texas law

The right option depends entirely on your circumstances and legal eligibility.

How Long Does the Process Take?

The timeline varies depending on the court, county, and specific circumstances of the case. Some record clearing matters may be completed in a matter of months, while others can take longer depending on court schedules and agency responses.

The sooner the process begins, the sooner you may be able to move forward without a record creating unnecessary obstacles.

Do You Qualify for Record Clearing?

Eligibility is often determined by how a case ended rather than the original charge itself. Potentially eligible cases may include:

Cases that were dismissed
Successful completion of diversion programs
Successful completion of deferred adjudication
Certain misdemeanor convictions
Some felony matters
Other qualifying criminal cases

Every situation is different. Factors such as prior criminal history, the specific offense involved, and the disposition of the case all play an important role in determining eligibility. Because the rules can be complex, it is important to have an attorney review your record before assuming that relief is unavailable.

Why Legal Guidance Is Important

Record clearing requires more than simply filling out paperwork.

Petitions must be prepared correctly, filed in the proper court, and supported with the necessary information and documentation. Mistakes can result in avoidable delays or denials.

At Madson Law, we take the time to review your history, explain your options, and develop a strategy designed to help you pursue the best available outcome.

We understand that people are more than the worst moment of their lives. Whether your case was dismissed years ago or you recently completed probation, we can help you evaluate whether record clearing may be available.

Let Madson Law Help You Move Forward

The end of a criminal case does not always mean the end of its consequences. If a past arrest, charge, or conviction continues to follow you, it may be time to explore your options.

Madson Law provides thoughtful, strategic guidance for individuals seeking to clear or seal their criminal records. We will give you an honest assessment of your eligibility, explain the process, and help you pursue every available opportunity so you can move forward with confidence.

Contact Madson Law today to discuss whether record clearing may be available in your case.

Discuss Your Record-Clearing Options

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an expungement and an order of nondisclosure?

An expungement (called an expunction in Texas law) permanently removes eligible records from public access. An order of nondisclosure seals eligible records from the public while allowing certain government agencies to retain access. Which option may be available depends on how the case was resolved and the specific facts of the case.

Can I clear a dismissed criminal case from my record?

In many situations, yes. Cases that were dismissed, resulted in an acquittal, or were resolved through certain diversion programs may qualify for record clearing. Eligibility depends on the specific circumstances of the case and applicable Texas law.

Can a conviction be removed from my record?

Some convictions may qualify for relief through an order of nondisclosure, while others may not be eligible for record clearing. Eligibility depends on the offense, how the case was resolved, and whether all legal requirements have been satisfied.

How do I know if I qualify for record clearing?

The best way to determine eligibility is to have an attorney review your criminal history and case disposition. Record-clearing laws can be complex, and eligibility often depends more on how a case ended than the original charge itself.

Can felony cases qualify for record clearing?

Some felony cases may qualify for an expunction or order of nondisclosure, depending on how the matter was resolved and whether the statutory requirements are met. A felony does not automatically disqualify someone from all forms of record-clearing relief.

Why should I hire an attorney to help with record clearing?

Record-clearing petitions require careful review of eligibility requirements, preparation of legal filings, and compliance with court procedures. An attorney can help determine what relief may be available, avoid costly mistakes, and guide the process from start to finish.