Sealing a Drug Crime Record in Fort Bend or Galveston County: A Strategic Path Toward a Clean Slate

A Dismissed Case Isn’t the Same as a Clean Record — But It Can Be

In Texas, too many people walk out of court relieved that their drug case was dismissed, diverted, or resolved through deferred adjudication — only to discover months or years later that the record still exists. Employers still see it. Background checks still flag it. And the opportunity to move forward feels just out of reach.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: your life doesn’t have to be permanently defined by a past drug charge — not in Fort Bend County, not in Galveston County, and not anywhere in Texas.

If you don’t qualify for full expunction, you may still have a powerful option: sealing your record through an Order of Nondisclosure.

Let’s walk through how it works — and why it may be the second chance you’ve been looking for.

The Hidden Cost of a “Closed” Drug Case

Most people think once the judge bangs the gavel and the case is over, it disappears. But it doesn’t. Even if:

• You completed deferred adjudication successfully
• You weren’t convicted
• You stayed out of trouble afterward

Your arrest, court dates, plea agreements, and supervision orders remain part of your public criminal record. Anyone who runs a background check — a future employer, landlord, licensing board — can still see it.

So what’s the point of avoiding conviction if the consequences still follow you?

That’s where record sealing through an Order of Nondisclosure comes in.

What Is an Order of Nondisclosure in Texas?

An Order of Nondisclosure is a legal tool that allows you to seal your criminal record from public view. Unlike expunction — which erases the record entirely — nondisclosure hides it from:

• Employers
• Landlords
• Schools
• Background check companies

Certain government agencies can still access it (e.g., law enforcement, licensing boards), but for most people trying to move forward, nondisclosure offers a real second chance.

Who Qualifies for Record Sealing in a Drug Case?

Texas law allows record sealing in drug cases only if you meet certain conditions, including:

• You completed deferred adjudication and received a dismissal and discharge
• You were not convicted of the offense
• You have no disqualifying criminal history
• You waited the required waiting period (varies by offense)

See Deferred Adjudication in Drug Crime Cases for how this type of resolution sets you up for record sealing later.

What Types of Drug Charges Can Be Sealed in Fort Bend and Galveston Counties?

In many cases, you may be eligible to seal records for:

• Possession of a controlled substance (misdemeanor or low-level felony)
• Possession of marijuana
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Certain prescription drug offenses

But some charges cannot be sealed, including:

• Offenses requiring sex offender registration
• Certain violent or repeat offenses
• Charges involving child endangerment or organized crime

An experienced lawyer near you can review your case and determine your eligibility based on the facts and outcome.

Why Record Sealing Matters — Especially in Fort Bend and Galveston Counties

Both counties have made progress in offering diversion and deferred adjudication options — but few defendants are told what comes next. The result? Thousands of people with dismissed cases still struggle to get jobs, housing, or professional licenses.

Record sealing can restore:

• Employment opportunities
• Access to housing
• Professional certifications
• Your personal reputation

It’s not just about clearing your record — it’s about restoring your future.

How the Record Sealing Process Works

1. Determine Eligibility
   • Your attorney reviews your case disposition and criminal history.
2. File a Petition for Nondisclosure
   • Filed in the same court that handled your original case.
3. Notify All Relevant Parties
   • Including the prosecutor’s office and law enforcement agencies.
4. Attend a Court Hearing (If Required)
   • Some cases may be granted without a hearing, others require a formal review.
5. Order Signed and Sent to Agencies
   • Once granted, the court order is sent to DPS and other entities to seal your record from public access.

Having a local attorney near you who knows Fort Bend and Galveston County court procedures increases the likelihood of approval — and ensures the process moves as smoothly as possible.

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Common Mistakes That Delay or Block Record Sealing

• Assuming your case was automatically sealed
• Filing in the wrong court
• Failing to serve notice on required parties
• Not meeting the eligibility window
• Waiting too long to take action

A knowledgeable defense attorney can help avoid these pitfalls — and maximize your chances of success.

Why So Many People Never Seal Their Records — and Why You Should

The most common reason people don’t pursue record sealing is they didn’t know they could. Others are intimidated by the paperwork, cost, or process.

But when you consider what a clean background check can do for your:

• Career
• Housing
• Education
• Peace of mind

…it’s clear that record sealing isn’t just a legal formality — it’s a life-changing opportunity.

Conclusion: You Deserve to Be Seen for Who You Are — Not What’s on Paper

A past drug charge doesn’t define your worth, your future, or your potential. Whether your case was dismissed, deferred, or resolved quietly — you still deserve the chance to move forward without a criminal record hanging over your head.

Sealing your record in Fort Bend or Galveston County may be the most powerful step you can take to reclaim control of your life.

Mekisha Walker, former felony prosecutor and experienced criminal defense attorney, helps clients across Southeast Texas navigate the nondisclosure process and restore what they’ve worked hard to rebuild.

Call Walker Law Office today at (713) 228-2611 or visit https://www.walkerlawhouston.com/contact

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