Those offenses include: 

• Unlawful restraint
• Public lewdness
• Indecent exposure
• Assault
• Deadly conduct
• Terroristic threat
• Disorderly conduct
• Harassment
• Unlawful carrying of a firearm
• Obstructing a highway or another passageway
• Interference with an emergency telephone call, stalking, and bigamy

During this five-year period, the applicant must not receive anything more than a citation for a fine-only traffic offense. For most felony offenses, the applicant must wait five years from the date of discharge and dismissal of the felony offense.

Benefits of Obtaining an Order of Non-Disclosure

Obtaining an order of non-disclosure offers significant advantages. A person who receives an order of non-disclosure may deny ever having been arrested or prosecuted for the offense unless the information is used against the person in a subsequent criminal proceeding. However, an order of non-disclosure does not require the government to destroy the information. The information may still be released to criminal justice agencies, non-criminal justice agencies authorized by statute or executive order to receive criminal history record information, and the person who is the subject of the criminal history information.

Because San Antonio employers and landlords often conduct local background checks, an order of non-disclosure can open doors that once seemed closed. Many private employers, apartment managers, and universities use consumer reporting agencies that must honor non-disclosure orders. This means that having your record sealed can affect your job prospects, housing opportunities, and admission to education programs. In Bexar County, these practical benefits apply throughout the city, so even a minor difference in your record's status can have a lasting impact on your future.

Legal Protections & Penalties for Violating Non-Disclosure Orders

Private entities that compile and distribute criminal history information for compensation may not release information regarding an offense protected by an order of non-disclosure. A district court may issue a warning to a private entity for a first violation, but may impose a civil penalty not to exceed $500 for each subsequent violation. The Attorney General or the District Attorney's office may file suit to collect penalties.
 

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Texas?

Eligibility for expungement depends on the details of your case and the outcome of any criminal charges. In Texas, individuals may qualify for expungement if their case resulted in dismissal, acquittal, or certain Class C misdemeanor convictions that ended with successful completion of deferred adjudication. The law may also allow expungement if a person was arrested but never formally charged, as long as the required waiting period has passed and no charges are pending. Expungement is generally not available for convictions resulting in jail or prison time, except in very limited circumstances as outlined by Texas law. Within San Antonio and Bexar County courts, judges review the facts of each case to determine if expungement is allowed according to Chapter 55 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure. Before proceeding, you should gather all court documents and review eligibility guidelines to avoid delays or denials.

Expunction vs. Non-Disclosure: What’s the Difference?

Understanding the difference between expunction and non-disclosure helps you choose the right approach to clearing your criminal record. An expunction orders government agencies and courts to destroy or return all records relating to a particular arrest or charge, effectively erasing the incident from your official history. If a court grants an expunction, you can legally deny the event ever happened—even under oath. In contrast, an order of non-disclosure seals the record from public view but does not destroy it. Certain agencies, law enforcement, and licensing bodies may still access non-disclosed records for specific purposes. In San Antonio, both remedies offer meaningful relief, but your eligibility and desired outcomes will determine which solution suits your needs. Expunction provides complete erasure for those who qualify, while non-disclosure is available in a broader range of situations, particularly for those who have completed deferred adjudication.

Why Work with an Expungement Attorney in San Antonio?

Navigating the expungement or non-disclosure process involves more than just filing paperwork. Working with an experienced expungement attorney in San Antonio brings significant advantages at every stage. Legal professionals understand the complexities of local rules, Bexar County court procedures, and changing state requirements. By reviewing the specifics of your case, an attorney helps confirm eligibility, prepares the necessary documentation, and anticipates any barriers you might encounter. Our team offers compassionate guidance, clear communication, and support through each step of the process. We prioritize detailed case preparation, thorough investigation, and strategic advocacy that puts our clients’ best interests first. This approach helps reduce errors, prevent delays, and give your case the strongest possible chance for success in San Antonio’s courts. Our bilingual team ensures that all clients can fully understand and participate in the process, regardless of language preference.