Without Expunction or Nondisclosure, Texas Criminal Records Don’t Just Disappear

Many Texans believe that if enough time passes, an old arrest or dismissed case will eventually disappear from public view. Unfortunately, that’s not true. In Texas, criminal records generally remain public unless you take legal action to remove or seal them.

Here’s what happens to criminal records over time—and why waiting rarely solves the problem.

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Do Criminal Records Automatically Go Away in Texas?

In most situations, no. Texas law does not provide an automatic expiration date for criminal records. If no petition is filed, records tied to arrests, charges, and case outcomes can remain publicly accessible indefinitely.

This includes:
  • Arrests that never led to charges
  • Charges that were dismissed
  • Deferred adjudication cases
  • Cases that resulted in acquittal
Employers, landlords, lenders, and background check companies may still see these records years later.
Am I Eligible?

Are Criminal Records Ever Destroyed Automatically?

Only in very limited situations. Some Texas court records may be destroyed 25 years after final disposition in specific cases where the sentence or probation was 20 years or less. However:

  • This applies only to certain court files
  • It does not remove law enforcement records
  • It does not stop online background reports

For most people, this rule offers little practical protection.

Am I Eligible?

Why Time Alone Doesn’t Protect Your Record


Texas requires affirmative legal action to limit public access to criminal records. Without filing:


  • Courts do not clear records automatically
  • Law enforcement agencies keep arrest data
  • Background check companies continue reporting the case

Waiting does not improve your legal position—and in some cases, it makes fixing the issue more complicated.

Am I Eligible?

Legal Options to Limit Public Access


If you qualify, Texas law offers two main ways to protect your record:


Expunction



An expunction permanently removes records related to an arrest or case, treating it as if it never occurred.


Order of Nondisclosure


A nondisclosure seals the record from public view, though certain government agencies can still access it.

Both options require proper filing and court approval.

Why Taking Action Matters


Even years-old records can still:


  • Block job opportunities
  • Delay housing applications
  • Affect professional licensing
  • Appear in online background searches

Clearing or sealing your record can remove these ongoing barriers.


If you have a Texas criminal record and have taken no action, it may remain public indefinitely.


Wyde & Associates can review your situation and help you pursue expunction or nondisclosure under Texas law. Contact us today to protect your future and move forward with confidence.

Am I Eligible?