This is the next post in my series of articles on expunging an unlawful carry conviction in the state of Texas. My last article discussed some of the benefits from expunging a conviction under Texas Penal Code 46.02(a). It is important to understand that being proactive, and expunging your record now if you are eligible, can open up several possibilities and also help to safeguard your situation against potential life events. In this article I will discuss the benefit of retaining an attorney to assist you with the process. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I have previously explained the process of expunging an unlawful carry conviction after the recent legislative change in our state. As I discussed in that article, gaining an expunction is a multi-step process. This process includes acquiring the relevant records, filing a Petition, and dealing with potential objections. Incorrectly handling any of these steps can result in one’s Petition being denied/rejected. This can mean that an individual would have to start the process over again, costing themselves precious time. By retaining an attorney to assist you with the process you can help to ensure that the matter is handled properly. This can put you in a better position to move life forward.
Retaining counsel can also help to ensure that you are eligible to move forward with the process. Unfortunately, I suspect that there will be many individuals who attempt to represent themselves in their effort to expunge their record under the recent legislative change. Some of these individuals may find out that they are not eligible to fully clear their record. As I explained in my article regarding eligibility to expunge an unlawful carry conviction, the recent legislative change only applies to unlawful carry convictions. It does not create additional eligibility for sealing or expunging other criminal convictions or arrests. This can mean that one may believe they are fully clearing their history only to find out that such is not the case. Consulting with counsel can help you to fully understand your rights.
If you are considering filing a Petition for Expunction then contact my office today to speak with an Austin criminal defense attorney. I have been licensed since 1995 and am Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. I practice solely in the area of criminal defense and I take great pride in the level of service my office provides. Contact us online or by telephone to schedule an appointment.
I also serve the cities of Rollingwood, Round Rock, Elgin, Jonestown, Manor, Bee Cave, Lago Vista, Sunset Valley, Lakeway, Creedmoor, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, and San Marcos, Texas.