Being charged with or convicted of assault in Texas, especially in Fort Bend County—can have long-lasting consequences. One of the most common questions people ask after facing assault charges is: How long does a criminal record for assault last? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t simple because it depends on several factors, such as the type of assault charge, whether you were convicted, and your eligibility for record sealing or expunction.

If you’re facing charges or want to explore how to clear your record, a Fort Bend assault lawyer from Lawrence Law Firm, PLLC, can guide you through your options. Call us at (832) 356-4404 for a free consultation.

What Constitutes Assault in Texas?

In Texas, assault is broadly defined under the Texas Penal Code §22.01. It involves intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury to another, threatening someone with imminent harm, or causing physical contact that the victim would reasonably regard as offensive.

However, not all assault charges are created equal. They range in severity from Class C misdemeanors (typically involving threats or offensive contact) to more serious charges like aggravated assault, which is a felony.

Misdemeanor vs. Felony Assault Records

The duration and impact of an assault record often depend on the classification of the offense:

• Class C Misdemeanor: This is the least serious form of assault, usually involving threats or non-injurious contact. It may not result in jail time, but a conviction will still appear on your criminal record.
  
  
• Class A or B Misdemeanor: Involves actual bodily injury or assault on specific protected groups (like family members or public servants). Convictions can lead to jail time and long-term consequences on your record.
  
  
• Aggravated Assault: This is a felony offense involving serious bodily injury or the use of a deadly weapon. A conviction for aggravated assault can carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences, and it will remain on your record unless action is taken.
  
  

Does a Criminal Record for Assault Ever Go Away?

In Texas, criminal records do not automatically disappear with time, even for minor offenses. Once an assault charge or conviction is on your record, it remains there indefinitely unless you actively pursue legal relief.

There are two primary options for clearing or limiting access to your record: expunction and non-disclosure (sealing).

Expunction: When Is It Possible?

Expunction allows for the complete deletion of your record, as if the arrest or charge never occurred. This is only available in limited circumstances:

• You were acquitted at trial.
  
  
• Your case was dismissed, and certain waiting periods have passed.
  
  
• You were arrested but never charged, and the statute of limitations has expired.
  
  
• You completed a pretrial diversion program and were not convicted.
  
  

If you were convicted of assault, you typically do not qualify for expunction unless you received a pardon.

Non-Disclosure (Sealing): A Second Chance

If you pled guilty or no contest and received deferred adjudication (where the court defers finding you guilty, and you complete community supervision), you may qualify for an Order of Non-Disclosure after successfully completing your terms.

This option seals your criminal record from the general public, though law enforcement and certain state agencies will still have access. The waiting periods to file for non-disclosure vary depending on the offense:

• For misdemeanors, the wait may be as short as immediate or 2 years after completing supervision.
  
  
• For felony offenses like aggravated assault, the wait can be 5 years or more, and in some cases, sealing may not be permitted at all.
  

A Fort Bend assault lawyer can evaluate your eligibility and help you apply for non-disclosure, ensuring all required documentation and procedures are followed.

The Lifelong Impact of an Assault Record

Even if you served no jail time or completed a diversion program, having an assault charge or conviction on your record can affect many aspects of your life:

• Employment: Employers often conduct background checks. Assault records may result in the denial of job opportunities.
  
  
• Housing: Landlords may refuse to rent to individuals with violent offense records.
  
  
• Gun Rights: Felony assault convictions can lead to the loss of the right to own or possess firearms.
  
  
• Reputation: A public record can tarnish your image in the community and impact personal relationships.
  
  

This is why many people seek legal help not only to fight their charges but also to clear their records, where possible.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Trying to navigate the legal system alone can lead to missed deadlines, paperwork errors, or ineligibility due to misinterpretation of Texas laws. A qualified Fort Bend assault lawyer from Lawrence Law Firm, PLLC can help you:

• Fight your assault charges from the outset
  
  
• Pursue deferred adjudication where possible
  
  
• Explore post-conviction relief, including expunction or non-disclosure
  
  
• Protect your rights during every stage of the legal process
  
  

We understand the emotional and financial toll that criminal charges bring. Our team works closely with clients to explore every possible defense and future option, including those for individuals with aggravated assault charges.

Schedule Your Consultation with a Fort Bend Assault Lawyer

If you’ve been charged with assault in Fort Bend County—or if you’re seeking help to clear a past record—don’t wait to get legal advice. Every day that passes is a missed opportunity to take control of your future.

Call Lawrence Law Firm, PLLC today at (832) 356-4404 to schedule a consultation with a Fort Bend assault lawyer. We’re here to help you understand your rights and fight for the outcome you deserve.