Seal Juvenile Criminal Records

Most people, at some stage in their lives, have made a bad choice or simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time, landing themselves in troublesome predicaments. If these choices or situations lead to a criminal record reflecting an arrest, charge or conviction, that individual is forced to live with the consequences for the rest of his or her life. The ramifications of a criminal record are far reaching, often hindering your ability to find a job, housing, scholarships for college and more. The general public can also access your record, putting your mistake on display for your friends, family, and neighbors.

No Mistake Is Worse Than The One You Made As A Youth

While most adult charges do not qualify for removal or non-disclosure, many juvenile offenses can be hidden from the public. We know what is required to keep your records from encumbering your future and will help you evaluate your circumstances for the best possible result. Texas law offers a second chance and we will fight tirelessly to help you achieve that, ensuring your records are sealed.

Sealing Your Juvenile Record

According to Texas law, Juvenile records are supposed to be confidential, not subject to public viewing. This is called “Automatic Restriction of Access to Records.” It’s supposed to make your records more difficult to obtain. However, whether your records are actually confidential or not is sometimes left up to whether the fly-by-night public data websites know and will follow Texas law.

If your records are not sealed, they can also be used against you in court if, as an adult, you are charged with a crime. Additionally, your records can be accessed by government agencies. That means that people seeking to go into the military, obtain government jobs or seek careers that require state licensing such as nurses, doctors, lawyers or teachers, could have their juvenile past keep them from accomplishing their career dreams.

In most cases, juvenile records can be sealed. This results in all information regarding the juvenile offense being sent to the juvenile court. No other State agency can hold any record that the offense ever happened. The juvenile court keeps the records under seal and they can only be accessed in very limited circumstances by the parties listed in the sealing order.

Some cases call for mandatory sealing. Many are sealed at the discretion of the juvenile court judge. Felonies require that you wait until you are at least 19 years of age. A narrow set of felonies are not subject to sealing at all. Furthermore, the State can choose to contest the sealing.

Contact Us For Experienced Defense

We know how the sealing laws apply and can advise you on your best course of action. We also know what type of evidence or information the court desires to hear to decide if your record should be sealed. Let us help you clear your history to open up your future.

Call our Denton office at 940-488-1026 or contact us online to schedule your free initial consultation.