When a criminal case ends, people often ask whether the record can be cleared. The answer depends on more than whether the case is still open. The arrest history, charge, disposition, and statutory requirements matter. Start by obtaining accurate records rather than assuming that dismissal, supervision completion, or the passage of time automatically removes everything.

In this guide

Distinguish the two forms of relief

Texas expunction and an order of nondisclosure serve different purposes. Expunction can require covered records to be removed or destroyed under a qualifying order. Nondisclosure generally restricts public disclosure of covered information while certain authorized entities may retain access. Neither should be described simply as a universal background-check eraser. Ask which remedy, if any, fits the actual disposition and records involved.

Use the current legal framework

Texas expunction provisions are now organized in Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 55A. Older explanations may still refer to former Chapter 55. Nondisclosure has its own statutory eligibility rules in the Government Code. A correct chapter reference alone does not determine eligibility; counsel must examine the relevant provisions, exclusions, dates, and other history. Be careful with forms or articles based on a different type of case.

Build a complete disposition file

Gather arrest identifiers, all associated case numbers, charging documents, and the final judgment or dismissal order. Include supervision discharge papers if applicable. List related charges and earlier cases for counsel to review. A docket notation or a remembered conversation may not provide enough detail. Keep the documents organized by case so that one favorable result is not mistakenly applied to every record from an incident.

Ask what the process would actually cover

Request an explanation of the proposed relief, any waiting or filing requirements, and which agencies or records would be covered. Ask whether other charges or later events affect the analysis. Do not assume that finishing deferred adjudication automatically produces an expunction or nondisclosure order. The available path can depend on the offense and disposition, and some records or uses may remain outside the relief.

Keep the order and review later questions carefully

If relief is granted, retain a certified copy and ask how implementation will be confirmed. Government records and private background reports may involve different follow-up steps. Ask counsel how to answer a particular employment, licensing, or other application question after the order; there is no single answer suitable for every legal context. Keep a dated record of any remaining reporting problem and the correction requested.

Before your next step

Your preparation checklist

  • Collect final orders for every relevant case.
  • Distinguish expunction from nondisclosure before selecting forms.
  • Ask about eligibility, exclusions, timing, and covered records.
  • Retain the entered order and instructions for later disclosure questions.

Reference points: Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Chapter 55A; Texas State Law Library, Expunctions and Nondisclosure Orders; Texas Government Code, Chapter 411, Subchapter E-1. General information reviewed September 30, 2026.