How Long Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record?

Getting charged with a misdemeanor can feel overwhelming and distressing. One of the biggest concerns that people often have in this situation is how long the misdemeanor charge will stay on their record. This is a legitimate concern, as a criminal record can impact various areas of your life, from employment opportunities to housing and even relationships. However, each state has its laws and regulations concerning how long a misdemeanor will stay on your record. In this blog post, we’ll explore how long a misdemeanor stays on your record in Texas and some common factors that can influence the duration.

How Long Until I Can Remove a Misdemeanor From My Record?

Each state has its laws that determine the length of time a misdemeanor charge will stay on your record. For example, in most states, misdemeanor charges will stay on your criminal record indefinitely. However, in some states, you may be eligible for record expungement after a certain amount of time. In Texas, you can get a Class C misdemeanor removed from your record after 180 days from your arrest. As for Class A and Class B misdemeanors, they can be expunged after one year from the date of arrest. With a little time and some help from a lawyer, you can have a clean slate.

What is Expungement?

Expungement is a legal process that removes an arrest or conviction from your record, and it can vary from state to state. In Texas, you’ll need to meet specific criteria to be eligible. This will vary depending on the circumstances of the charge, but may include completing probation, remaining arrest-free for a specific period, or attending certain sessions.

What Happens to My Record if I Don’t Get a Misdemeanor Expunged?

Several factors can influence how long a misdemeanor remains on your record. These factors often depend on the specific crime you were charged with, how severe it was, and whether you were convicted. For example, a DWI conviction in most states can remain on your record for several years, depending on the severity of the charge and your driving history. For crimes in Texas, legally speaking, the charge will remain on your record indefinitely.  However, most background checks done by a public entity will only go back seven years. If the background check is completed by a government agency, they may be able to access charges further than seven years.

It is essential to note that while expungement can remove a charge from your record, it doesn’t guarantee that the charge will disappear entirely. Some organizations, such as law enforcement agencies and certain government offices, can still access your record, even if it has been expunged. However, for the most part, an expunged record means that you won’t have to disclose the charge on most job applications, rental agreements, or loans.

In conclusion, the duration that a misdemeanor stays on your record depends on various factors, including the state you were charged in and the type of misdemeanor. Although expungement can remove the charge from your record, it’s not always guaranteed to provide complete confidentiality or privacy. Therefore, it’s vital to consult with a criminal defense lawyer to understand your legal options and eligibility for expungement. While having a criminal record can feel daunting, understanding your rights and options can give you peace of mind and the confidence to navigate your future successfully. Contact The Fox Firm today to schedule a consultation, and we can help determine if you are eligible for an expungement and get your record clean!