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Expungement Costs in Texas

Understanding Texas Expungement Cost: What to Expect in 2025

Eligibility and Requirements for Expungement of Criminal Record in Texas

Expungement allows individuals to clear their criminal history, providing a fresh start for employment and other opportunities. Having arrest records can significantly affect job prospects, educational opportunities, and overall reputation, even if charges were dismissed or a person was found not guilty. To determine eligibility, a person must meet specific criteria. If the case was dismissed, or if the individual was acquitted, they may qualify for expungement.

Certain types of misdemeanors, including Class C misdemeanors, may be eligible for expungement under Texas law. However, individuals who completed deferred adjudication for a higher-level offense may only be eligible for non-disclosure, not expungement. Understanding the legal distinctions between these options is crucial when pursuing an expungement petition.

ATX Legal charges a flat fee of $1,500 for expunction. This includes all court costs and attorney fees. If you qualify financially, the UT Expunction Project offers free expunctions, but there is sometimes a long wait list for the service.

The Expungement Process in Texas

The expungement process in Texas typically takes around two months, but agencies may take up to a year to fully erase the record. On average, the criminal record is deleted within six to nine months of the court granting the expungement.

To begin the legal process, an individual must file a petition with the court. The expungement process may involve filing petitions in different courts such as district court, justice court, or municipal court, each with its own fee structure. The judge will then review the petition and determine whether the record qualifies for expungement. In some cases, a court hearing is required, where the petitioner must present arguments for why their criminal record should be erased. If granted, the individual will no longer need to disclose the offense on job applications or legal forms.

Legal Fees for Expungement

The cost of hiring an attorney to handle an expungement petition varies. Many law offices charge a flat fee, while others charge hourly fees. On average, attorney fees for an expungement range from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the complexity of the case.

At ATX Legal, we offer a flat fee of $1,500, which includes court costs. This cost covers the filing process, legal representation, and administrative fees required to clear the criminal record. Additionally, some individuals may qualify for free expunction through the UT Expunction Project, though there is often a long waitlist for those services.

Court Costs and Fees Associated with Expungement

In addition to legal fees, individuals must cover additional court costs. Court costs can vary depending on whether the petition is filed in a district court, justice court, or municipal court, each having its own specific fee requirements. These may include:

  • Filing fee – Required for submitting an expungement petition

  • Certified mailing fees – To notify agencies of the expungement request

  • Other administrative expenses – Such as copies of court documents

The total cost of these fees typically ranges from $400 to $500, depending on the county where the petition is filed. If the individual was acquitted and files their petition within 30 days, they may be eligible to have these fees waived.

Non-Disclosure Orders: An Alternative to Expungement

For individuals who do not qualify for expungement, a non-disclosure order can be a viable alternative. A non-disclosure order seals the criminal record from public access but does not erase it.

Under Texas law, a non-disclosure order can be issued for records related to an arrest where probation or community supervision was completed. However, this record may still be accessible to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and some government organizations. While not as effective as an expungement, a non-disclosure order can prevent most employers from accessing past criminal charges.

Benefits of Expunging a Criminal Record

Expunging a criminal record can have numerous benefits for individuals seeking to move on from their past mistakes. Some of the most significant advantages of expunging a criminal record include:

  • Improved Job Prospects: A clean criminal record can significantly enhance one’s chances of securing employment, as many employers conduct background checks on potential employees. Without a prior criminal charge appearing in these checks, individuals can present themselves as more reliable and trustworthy candidates.

  • Increased Housing Opportunities: Landlords and property managers often perform background checks on prospective tenants, and a criminal record can make it difficult to secure housing. Expunging a criminal record can help individuals access better housing options, ensuring they have a stable place to live.

  • Enhanced Education and Career Opportunities: A criminal record can limit access to certain educational programs, scholarships, and career advancement opportunities. Expunging a criminal record can help individuals pursue their educational and career goals without the burden of a criminal past, opening doors to new possibilities.

  • Emotional and Psychological Benefits: Living with a criminal record can be a source of stress, anxiety, and shame. Expunging a criminal record can provide individuals with a sense of closure and a fresh start, allowing them to move on from their past mistakes and rebuild their lives with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Expungement

  1. How long does the expungement process take in Texas?

  • Typically two months, with agencies taking up to a year to delete the record.

  1. What are the eligibility requirements for expungement in Texas?

  • The case must be dismissed, the individual must be acquitted, or the charge must qualify under Texas law.

  1. How much does it cost to expunge a criminal record in Texas?

  • Expungement costs range from $1,000 to $3,000 in legal fees, plus court costs.

  1. Can I expunge a felony record in Texas?

  • Some felony cases qualify if dismissed.

  1. What is the difference between expungement and non-disclosure?

  • Expungement erases criminal records entirely, while non-disclosure seals them but allows limited access.

Next Steps: Getting Started with Expungement

If you’re looking to have your criminal record expunged, the first step is consulting with an experienced attorney. Individuals in Harris County should seek experienced expungement lawyers who specialize in cases within this jurisdiction to improve the chances of a successful petition. A knowledgeable law office can guide you through the legal process, file the necessary paperwork, and represent you in court.

At ATX Legal, we offer a free consultation to help you determine eligibility and outline the steps needed for your expungement petition. Contact us today to take control of your future and clear your criminal record.

Conclusion: Understanding the Cost of Expungement in Texas

The cost of expungement in Texas can vary widely depending on the nature of the charges, the specific details of the case, and the attorney fees associated with the process. While the cost of expungement may seem daunting, it is essential to consider the long-term benefits of having a clean criminal record. By understanding the cost of expungement and the benefits it can provide, individuals can make informed decisions about their future and take the first step towards a fresh start.

In Texas, the cost of expungement can range from $1,000 to $3,000 in legal fees, plus additional court costs that typically range from $400 to $500. These costs may include filing fees, certified mailing fees, and other administrative expenses. While these costs may seem significant, they are a small price to pay for the benefits of having a clean criminal record.

Ultimately, the cost of expungement in Texas is a worthwhile investment for individuals seeking to move on from their past mistakes and rebuild their lives. By understanding the cost of expungement and the benefits it can provide, individuals can take the first step towards a brighter future and a clean criminal record.

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