This is the next post in my series on the newly passed legislation allowing Texas residents to expunge an “unlawful carry” conviction from their criminal record. My last article discussed the process for gaining an expunction of convictions under Texas Penal Code 46.02(a). As explained in that article, there are multiple steps one must go through to complete the process. Retaining an attorney, who is experienced in handling criminal expunctions, can help you to ensure that the process is handled correctly. The correct handling of a matter improves the chances that one’s Petition for Expunction is not denied for technical deficiencies. In this article I will discuss the benefits which accompany gaining an expunction. Contact my office to speak with an Austin lawyer if you or a loved one are in need of assistance.
I have previously discussed the benefits of sealing or expunging one’s Texas record. Those same benefits apply to the expunction of an unlawful carry conviction. Once the expunction is completed it is as if the arrest and subsequent conviction never occurred. This means that it will no longer show up on background checks. It also means that, if one has no other convictions or charges, an individual may answer “no” to the question of whether they have been arrested or charged with a crime. This improved ability to pass a background check typically makes it easier to find housing, to find more gainful employment, to be promoted in one’s existing job, and to get further ahead in life as a general matter. Furthermore, having a clear record can allow one to proceed with a greater sense of confidence in life as they can know that they have potential options should they lose their job, have to move, etc. It is likely not an over exaggeration to say that gaining an expunction can open up numerous opportunities for a Texas resident.
If you are an Austin resident and are eligible to clear your criminal history then it is strongly suggested that you do so as soon as possible. It is not uncommon for individuals to put off clearing their record out of a belief that doing so is not a priority. Unfortunately, life events happen to individuals. If one unexpectedly loses a job, is required to move, etc., then they may find themselves between the proverbial rock and a hard place. This is due to the fact that expunging a record can take a significant amount of time and one may not have time to go through with the process before they are required to start looking for housing, employment, etc. By being proactive, and resolving the matter now, you can help to ensure that it is not a future issue in the event that your circumstances change.
I am an Austin criminal defense lawyer who is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. I have been licensed in the state since 1995 and I take great pride in the level of service which my office provides to clients. This includes promptly responding to inquiries and ensuring that you know what to expect as the situation moves forward. Contact my office today to speak with an attorney.
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.