The Long-Term Effects of a Criminal Record in Texas

 Posted on May 14, 2025 in Criminal Defense

If you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony offense in Texas, you could face severe consequences that extend far beyond a prison sentence. Even if the violation seems minor, you should not take a criminal charge lightly. A Texas criminal defense attorney can help fight the charges against you, pursuing the best possible outcome.

The worst thing you can do when faced with criminal charges is to go in unprepared. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., our lawyers bring a wealth of legal knowledge and experience to support you from the beginning of your case to its conclusion. As skilled trial lawyers, we have a long history of success in the courtroom thanks to our aggressive advocacy.

Felony Convictions in Texas Can Affect Gun Ownership Rights

In general, Texas is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights, and the state has a proud culture of responsible gun ownership. However, your gun ownership rights could still be suspended or revoked under certain circumstances. Case in point, if you are convicted of a felony offense, you will lose your right to possess a firearm.

Convicted felons who have lost their rights to possess a gun may regain those rights after five years have passed since the sentence was completed. Even then, the law only allows convicted felons to possess a gun at home, not to be carried out in public. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., we can review your options to protect your right to own a gun, such as negotiating a felony charge down to a misdemeanor.

Repeat Offenders May Face Stricter Penalties

In some cases, past convictions on your record can affect how your case will be prosecuted. For instance, repeat DWI convictions can result in enhanced charges, even if there were decades between your last conviction and your current case. Similarly, assault against a family member is a misdemeanor charge on a first offense, but if you have a prior history on your criminal record, it could be charged as a felony.

Keep in mind that the court has access to your criminal record. Depending on your case, having a criminal record could make matters significantly worse for you.

Your Criminal Record Will Appear on Background Checks

After serving your sentence, you may have reflected on what led to your conviction. You may be a changed person after experiencing what you went through, and you may be ready to start fresh. Unfortunately, rehabilitating into society may not be easy when your criminal record is accessible by potential employers running background checks. You could also be denied other opportunities, such as being turned down on loans or denied in housing applications.

Depending on the offense you have been convicted of, you may be able to pursue expungement as a way to remove the offense from your record. However, this does not apply to every criminal violation.

Contact a Fairview, TX Criminal Defense Attorney Today

The consequences of a conviction can haunt you for years to come. At Law Offices of Biederman & Burleson P.L.L.C., our Prosper, TX criminal lawyers can help you strategize for an ideal outcome for your case. Call our offices at 469-333-3333 to schedule a free consultation.