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A criminal record follows you everywhere. Job applications, background checks, even housing opportunities — one mistake can put up a wall between you and the life you want. In Texas, expungement and record sealing offer a way forward. For many in San Antonio, clearing a criminal record means unlocking opportunities that were once out of reach.
The job barrier no one talks about
Employers run background checks. That’s just the reality. And in Texas, businesses can refuse to hire someone based on a criminal record — no matter how old or irrelevant the charge may be. Even if you weren’t convicted, an arrest can still show up and raise red flags.
The result? Qualified candidates get passed over. Careers stall before they even start. Expungement changes that by legally erasing eligible records, ensuring they never appear on background checks. If expungement isn’t an option, record sealing (known as an order of nondisclosure) can still prevent most employers from seeing past mistakes.
The power of a clean slate
Expungement is more than a legal process — it’s a second chance. Once a record is cleared, it’s gone. It doesn’t have to be disclosed on applications. It won’t show up in criminal history searches. In the eyes of the law, it never happened.
For those eligible for nondisclosure, the impact is still significant. While law enforcement and certain government agencies can see the record, private employers cannot. That means better job prospects, higher earning potential and freedom from the stigma of a past mistake.
Who qualifies for expungement or record sealing in Texas?
Not every charge can be erased, but many can. In Texas, you may qualify for expungement if:
- You were arrested but never prosecuted
- Your case was dismissed
- You were acquitted at trial
- You completed a pretrial diversion program
If you pled guilty or no contest, you may still qualify for record sealing under Texas’ nondisclosure laws. This applies to certain misdemeanors and first-time DWI offenses after successful completion of probation or deferred adjudication.
Expungement and your career
A criminal record can block entry into many professions. Teachers, nurses and health care workers often face strict licensing requirements that disqualify candidates with a criminal record. Corporate jobs frequently involve background checks that flag any past arrest or charge. Even the hospitality and service industries, including bartenders and security personnel, are impacted by hiring policies that favor applicants with clean records.
For those working toward professional licenses — such as accountants, engineers or real estate agents — criminal history can delay or completely derail certification. Expungement and record sealing remove these barriers, allowing qualified individuals to pursue their careers without unnecessary obstacles.
A fresh start
A criminal record shouldn’t define a person’s future. Trey Porter Law is dedicated to helping individuals clear criminal records and move forward with confidence. San Antonio expungement lawyer Trey Porter and his team have a track record of successfully guiding clients through the expungement and record-sealing process, ensuring the best opportunity for a fresh start.
The process takes time, but the results last a lifetime. Contact Trey Porter Law at 210-673-1180 to take the first step toward a brighter future.
