If you have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony, the offense can be found in your criminal record. Furthermore, if you were arrested, then you also have a criminal record.
Fortunately, expungement offers a way to clean your criminal record as if the crime had never occurred. In Texas, there are specific circumstances that need to be met in order to qualify for expunction.
You may be eligible for expungement if:
- You were arrested but not charged with the criminal offense
- Your charge was dismissed
- You were convicted of a juvenile misdemeanor
- You were convicted of a minor alcohol-related crime
- You were convicted of Failure to Attend School
- You were later acquitted in appeals court
- You received a pardon
The following are the benefits of having your criminal record expunged:
- Obtaining to maintaining employment. Over 80% of employers perform background checks on their employee candidates. A criminal record will always have a negative impact on your employment prospects. Even if you are still working, new management can come in and do a criminal check on all current employees.
- Loan approval. There are some loan agencies that think a criminal record means irresponsibility. A mark on your record can result in higher interest rates or even complete denial. Without approval for a loan, it can be hard to buy a new car or home, as well as pay for school.
A clean criminal record enables that person to take advantage of what life has to offer. If you do not want one mistake to haunt you for the rest of your life, seek legal assistance from our El Paso lawyer at the Law Offices of Ruben Ortiz. With nearly 25 years of legal experience, we understand what it takes to get the results you want and help you get your life back on track.
Contact us and schedule a free consultation right away!