Minor Juvenile Charges in Williamson County: What Parents Need to Know

If your child has ever been involved in the juvenile justice system, you might assume that their record simply disappears when they turn 18. Unfortunately, that's not always the case, especially if the charge was a felony in Texas.

While juvenile records are generally confidential and not publicly available, some law enforcement and government agencies still have access to them. More importantly, many juvenile records do not seal automatically, and failure to seal them could affect your child's future.

Let's break down how juvenile record sealing works in Williamson County, when it happens automatically, and when you need to take legal action to protect your child's future.

Why Sealing Juvenile Records Matters

Sealing your minor's record can protect them from long-term consequences that most children cannot fathom. Without sealing your criminal record, you may be subject to discussing this charge for jobs, military service, college applications, and even housing.

A sealed record:

• Prevents employers, colleges, and landlords from accessing past mistakes.
• Helps your child start adulthood with a clean slate.
• Removes the stigma and limitations associated with past juvenile offenses.

How Juvenile Record Sealing Works in Texas

In Texas, sealing juvenile records depends on the type of offense and how much time has passed since the last court action.

Misdemeanors: Automatically Sealed at 19

For most misdemeanor-level offenses, juvenile records are automatically sealed when the individual turns 19, assuming they haven't committed a new offense.

However, many families don't want to wait until 19. You can request early sealing if:

• Your child is at least 17 years old.
• It's been at least one year since the last action in their case.
• There are no new criminal charges or pending matters.

It's always crucial to possess legal counsel before going forward with these actions.

Read our blog: How to Know If Your Minor Qualifies for an Expunction

Felonies: Must Be Requested Through the Court

Felony-level juvenile records do not seal automatically. To have a felony juvenile record sealed, you must apply with the court. A judge will review the case and determine whether the record should be sealed.

To qualify:

• Your child must be at least 18 years old, or
• It must be at least two years since the final court action in the case.
• No adult felony convictions or pending criminal matters can exist.

Only then can the judge consider sealing the record.

Here's What Happens

Step 1: Review Eligibility

The type of offense, your child's age, and the time since the last court action all impact whether a record can be sealed.

Step 2: Prepare and File the Application

You (or your child's attorney) must complete and submit an application to the appropriate court.

Step 3: Judicial Review

A judge reviews the case, verifies eligibility, and either signs off or denies the request.

Step 4: If Approved, the Record Is Sealed

Once sealed, the record becomes inaccessible to most parties. Even background checks will not show the sealed offense.

Read our blog: How Serious Is a Shoplifting Charge as a Minor?

Juvenile Records Are Confidential — But Not Invisible

Even though juvenile records are not public, they are not completely hidden either. Certain agencies — including law enforcement, the military, and some government employers — may still access unsealed records.

This is why sealing juvenile records is so important. It puts those records out of reach for nearly everyone, including:

• Employers
• College admissions offices
• Apartment leasing offices
• Licensing boards

Does This Apply to All Juvenile Offenses?

Not every offense can be sealed. Some serious crimes may not be eligible for sealing, including violent felonies or sex offenses.

If you're unsure whether your child's case qualifies, talk to a juvenile defense attorney who understands Texas law and can guide you through the process.

DON'T LET A JUVENILE RECORD FOLLOW YOUR CHILD FOR LIFE

At the Law Office of Ryan H. Deck, we help families clear the path for their children's future. Whether your child's record qualifies for automatic sealing or needs a court petition, we can help ensure no detail is overlooked.

Don't wait until it's too late. Talk to our team today and take the first step toward a clean slate.

📞Call now or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.