If you are charged with a crime as a young person, there is a chance that your criminal record will be sealed by Texas authorities when you reach the age of majority. This means that the charge won’t show up on a background check when you apply for a job, a security clearance or an educational program.
Do you have to ask for records to be sealed?
If you weren’t charged with a crime, any records that you have with a juvenile court in Texas will be automatically sealed when you turn 18. In the event that you were charged with a crime, your records will be automatically sealed at age 19 if you are found not guilty of a felony. The same is likely true if you were convicted of a misdemeanor offense. It’s important to note that information about any juvenile crimes that you committed may still be available to various state agencies after this happens.
When your records won’t be sealed
Your juvenile criminal record will not be automatically sealed if you are convicted of a crime that requires you to register as a sexual offender. Instead, you will need to ask the court to take this step after you are removed from a sexual offender list. Furthermore, criminal charges that you acquired as a juvenile may remain on your record if you’re ordered to stand trial as an adult on those charges.
Regardless of how old you are when you’re accused of a crime, it is a good idea to speak with an attorney. A legal representative may be able to help you obtain a favorable outcome in the matter as well as help with the process of having your juvenile criminal record sealed or expunged.