Record sealing is similar to expungement in Texas, except that it is more easily available for certain parties to access. Record sealing (also known as an order of non-disclosure) hides your criminal convictions from the public – including employers and private investigators – but they will still be visible within the criminal justice system. If you face another arrest in the future, for example, a sealed conviction will still appear as a prior offense.
Expungement and record sealing do not erase your criminal history completely. Only a pardon has that power. Certain parties, including law enforcement and the criminal courts, will still have access to your history of criminal convictions. During an immigration case, for example, the courts will still have access to your expunged criminal record to use as proof of a prior conviction. Not everyone will be eligible for expungement and record sealing. If you are, a Houston non-disclosure lawyer can help you with the paperwork and legal process.