You’ve worked hard to rebuild your life. You apply for your dream job with confidence, only to watch the opportunity disappear when the employer discovers your previous drug charge. This same criminal record prevents you from securing housing and pursuing educational programs. Fortunately, Texas law provides a legal pathway to remove these charges from your record, though you must meet specific eligibility requirements to proceed.
What is expungement?
Expungement, also called expunction, removes both arrests and charges from your criminal record. After a judge approves your request, state agencies must destroy records related to your drug charge.
As a result, most background checks will not show the arrest. You can honestly answer “no” on applications that ask about drug charges. Knowing how this works can help you decide whether to apply.
Steps to expunge your drug charges
The expungement process requires careful attention to these following steps:
- Gather your records: Get your tracking number (TRN), arrest date and dismissal order from the court that dismissed your case.
- Draft the petition: Draft your expunction petition with all required legal details and the correct format to prevent costly delays.
- File and pay: Submit your petition and pay filing fees typically ranging from $400 to $600.
- Attend your hearing: Go to your court hearing about 30 to 45 days after you file. If you meet all requirements, the judge will approve the order.
- Notification: The court clerk sends the order to all agencies, requiring them to destroy their records.
However, certain circumstances create barriers to expungement.
When you cannot clear your records
Unfortunately, you usually cannot expunge drug charges if you were convicted or if you received deferred adjudication. Also, the statute of limitations may make you ineligible. Texas law requires you to wait a specific period after your arrest or case dismissal before you can file for expungement and filing too early can result in denial. Even so, expungement can still matter for people who qualify.
Don’t let your past affect your future
Your previous drug charges shouldn’t define your future. With a clean record, you can confidently apply for jobs without fear of rejection. You can secure quality housing for yourself and your family. You can pursue higher education and professional certifications that advance your career. The expungement process opens these doors and restores opportunities that your past mistakes once blocked. Consider taking the first step today toward the future you deserve.