Some cases are resolved in a matter of weeks, while others may take several months or even more than a year. The length of a criminal case depends on many factors, including the complexity of the charges, the amount of evidence involved, the court’s schedule, and whether the case proceeds to trial.

Every Criminal Case Is Different

No two criminal cases are exactly alike. A straightforward misdemeanor may move through the court system much more quickly than a felony involving numerous witnesses, forensic evidence, or extensive pretrial litigation. The severity of the offense, the number of defendants, and the legal issues involved all influence how long a case will remain pending.

An experienced criminal defense attorney will evaluate the specific facts of your case and help you understand what to expect as the proceedings move forward.

The Investigation May Begin Long Before Charges Are Filed

Many criminal cases begin with a law enforcement investigation before formal charges are ever filed. Detectives may interview witnesses, review surveillance footage, analyze digital evidence, execute search warrants, or collect forensic evidence before deciding whether to present the case to prosecutors.

In some situations, an individual may not even realize that he or she is under investigation until contacted by law enforcement or served with an arrest warrant.

Because investigations can vary significantly in length, this stage alone may last weeks or several months before criminal charges are formally initiated.

Arrest and Initial Court Proceedings

Once a person is arrested, the criminal process begins quickly. Depending on the circumstances, an individual may appear before a magistrate, have bail addressed, and receive notice of the charges. The case is then assigned to a court where future hearings will be scheduled.

These early proceedings are often focused on ensuring that the defendant understands the allegations and that the case begins moving through the judicial process.

Discovery Takes Time

One of the most important stages of a criminal case involves discovery. During this process, the prosecution provides evidence that may include police reports, witness statements, body camera footage, surveillance videos, laboratory reports, photographs, forensic testing, and other materials relevant to the case.

Defense counsel must carefully review this information, investigate the allegations independently, identify legal issues, interview witnesses when appropriate, and determine whether additional evidence should be obtained.

In complex cases involving large amounts of digital evidence or forensic analysis, discovery can require substantial time and careful preparation.

Pretrial Motions Can Affect the Timeline

Many criminal cases involve legal issues that must be resolved before trial. Defense attorneys may file motions challenging the admissibility of evidence, contesting the legality of searches or seizures, requesting disclosure of additional evidence, or seeking dismissal under appropriate circumstances.

The court must schedule hearings, consider the legal arguments presented by both sides, and issue rulings before the case can proceed further. These proceedings are an important part of protecting a defendant’s constitutional rights, but they may also extend the overall timeline of the case.

Plea Negotiations

Not every criminal case proceeds to trial. In many cases, the prosecution and defense engage in discussions regarding possible resolutions.

The timing of these discussions varies from case to case. Sometimes meaningful negotiations cannot occur until both sides have reviewed all of the available evidence. In other cases, additional investigation by the defense may uncover information that significantly changes the posture of the case.

Every decision regarding a plea offer should be made only after carefully considering the facts, the law, the available evidence, and the potential consequences of accepting or rejecting an offer.

Cases That Go to Trial Usually Take Longer

If a criminal case cannot be resolved through dismissal or negotiated disposition, it may proceed to trial.

Preparing for trial requires significant work by both the prosecution and the defense. Attorneys must identify witnesses, prepare exhibits, review evidence, research legal issues, file appropriate motions, and develop trial strategy. Courts must also coordinate available courtroom time, juror availability, and scheduling for all parties involved.

As a result, cases that proceed to jury trial generally require considerably more time than cases resolved through other means.

Delays Do Not Always Mean Something Is Wrong

Clients are often frustrated when hearings are postponed or trial dates are rescheduled. While delays can be inconvenient, they do not necessarily indicate that something has gone wrong with your case.

Court dockets are often crowded, witnesses may become unavailable, forensic testing may still be pending, or attorneys may require additional time to review newly produced evidence. In many situations, additional preparation ultimately benefits the defense by allowing counsel to thoroughly investigate the case and develop the strongest possible legal strategy.

Patience during the criminal process can be an important part of obtaining the best possible outcome.

The Importance of Early Legal Representation

One of the most effective ways to protect your rights is to retain experienced legal counsel as early as possible. An attorney can begin investigating the facts, preserving evidence, communicating with prosecutors, advising you regarding your constitutional rights, and preparing a defense from the earliest stages of the case.

Early intervention may also identify opportunities to resolve legal issues before they become more difficult later in the proceedings.

An Experienced Texas Criminal Defense Attorney Can Guide You Through the Process

Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, particularly when you are uncertain about how long the case may last. While no attorney can promise a specific timeline, experienced legal counsel can explain each stage of the process, keep you informed about the progress of your case, and advocate for your interests every step of the way.

At The Law Firm of Vonnie C. Dones III, we represent clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges throughout Texas. We understand that every criminal case is unique, and we are committed to providing strategic, thorough, and aggressive representation tailored to the facts of each case. From the initial investigation through trial, if necessary, we work diligently to protect our clients’ constitutional rights and pursue the best possible outcome.

If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, contact The Law Firm of Vonnie C. Dones III to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.

One of the most common questions criminal defense attorneys hear is, “Can the State really use my social media against me?” In many cases, the answer is yes.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with a crime in Texas, what you post online may become evidence in your case.

Social Media Is Often Considered Evidence

Many people mistakenly believe that social media posts are too informal to be used in court. In reality, prosecutors routinely review social media accounts when building criminal cases. Investigators may examine photographs, videos, comments, messages, location information, and other online activity to determine whether it supports the allegations being made.

Even posts that appear harmless can sometimes be interpreted differently when viewed alongside witness statements, surveillance footage, or other evidence collected during an investigation.

Because social media often documents a person’s activities, relationships, and communications, it can become an important source of evidence for both the prosecution and the defense.

Public Posts Are Fair Game

If your social media account is public, law enforcement generally does not need your permission to view content that anyone else can access. Public photographs, videos, comments, and status updates may be reviewed by investigators and preserved as evidence.

Even if you later delete a post, there is no guarantee that it has disappeared. Other users may have taken screenshots, shared the content, or downloaded it before it was removed. Social media companies may also retain certain information that could become available through legal process.

Private Accounts Are Not Always Private

Many users assume that setting an account to “private” completely shields their content from law enforcement. While privacy settings limit who can view your posts, they do not necessarily prevent investigators from obtaining information through lawful means.

Depending on the circumstances, prosecutors may seek evidence through search warrants, subpoenas, or other legal procedures authorized by law. Additionally, information shared with friends or followers may later be provided to investigators voluntarily.

Privacy settings should never be viewed as a guarantee that online content cannot become evidence in a criminal case.

Deleted Content May Still Exist

Deleting a post after learning of an investigation does not necessarily eliminate the possibility that it will be discovered. Digital information often exists in multiple locations, including cloud backups, cached files, screenshots, or copies maintained by third parties.

In some situations, deleting potential evidence after becoming aware of a criminal investigation may create additional legal issues. Rather than attempting to remove online content without legal guidance, individuals should consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney.

Social Media Can Be Misunderstood

One of the greatest dangers of social media is that posts often lack context.

A photograph may not accurately reflect when or where it was taken. A joke may be interpreted literally. A sarcastic comment may appear threatening when read by someone unfamiliar with the circumstances. Lyrics, memes, or reposted content may also be misunderstood if viewed outside their original context.

Prosecutors may argue that certain posts demonstrate motive, intent, knowledge, or association with other individuals. Whether those arguments are legally admissible depends upon the facts of each case and the applicable rules of evidence.

Direct Messages May Also Become Relevant

Many people believe that private messages are protected simply because they are not publicly visible. However, electronic communications may become evidence if they are lawfully obtained during an investigation.

Messages discussing an alleged offense, arranging meetings, or communicating with witnesses or co-defendants may become relevant depending upon the allegations involved. As with any evidence, admissibility depends upon the facts of the case and applicable legal rules.

What Should You Do If You Are Under Investigation?

If you know, or even suspect, that you are under criminal investigation, it is wise to be cautious about your online activity. Continuing to post about your daily life, discussing the allegations, or responding to comments about your case may unintentionally create evidence that prosecutors attempt to use against you.

It is also important not to discuss your case publicly or attempt to explain your side of the story through social media. Statements made online can be taken out of context, shared widely, and later introduced during court proceedings.

Instead of posting about your case, consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can advise you regarding your legal rights and help protect your interests throughout the investigation.

Social Media Can Also Help the Defense

While social media is frequently associated with evidence used by prosecutors, it can also benefit the defense.

Photographs, videos, messages, timestamps, and location information may sometimes contradict witness testimony, establish an alibi, or provide important context that supports the defense’s theory of the case. An experienced attorney will carefully evaluate all available digital evidence rather than assuming it favors one side.

Protect Your Rights Early

The decisions made during the early stages of a criminal investigation can have a lasting impact on the outcome of a case. If you have been arrested, contacted by law enforcement, or believe you are the subject of a criminal investigation, obtaining experienced legal counsel as soon as possible is one of the most important steps you can take.

At The Law Firm of Vonnie C. Dones III, we represent individuals facing criminal investigations and criminal charges throughout Texas. We understand the increasingly important role that digital evidence plays in modern criminal cases and work diligently to protect our clients’ constitutional rights while challenging evidence that has been unlawfully obtained or improperly presented.

If you have questions about how social media may affect your criminal case, contact The Law Firm of Vonnie C. Dones III to schedule a confidential consultation.

Before participating in any interview with law enforcement, it is important to understand your constitutional rights and the potential risks involved.

When detectives contact you, they may describe you as a witness, a person of interest, or simply someone who may have information about an investigation. However, detectives are generally not required to tell you whether you are a suspect or whether they are considering filing criminal charges. Even if the conversation appears informal, investigators are gathering information that could become evidence in a criminal case.

Many people believe that an innocent person has nothing to fear by answering questions. Unfortunately, that assumption can be misleading. Criminal investigations are often built on statements made by witnesses, suspects, and other individuals connected to an incident. Even truthful statements can be misunderstood, taken out of context, or later viewed as inconsistent with other evidence. Human memory is imperfect, particularly during stressful situations, and innocent mistakes can create unnecessary complications during an investigation.

Law enforcement officers are trained to conduct interviews designed to obtain information. During questioning, detectives may already possess evidence that they choose not to disclose. They may ask the same question in different ways, challenge your answers, or attempt to clarify statements you have made. While these techniques are lawful investigative tools, they also demonstrate why individuals should carefully consider obtaining legal advice before participating in an interview.

The U.S. Constitution provides important protections for individuals who are questioned by law enforcement. Among these protections is the right to remain silent and the right to consult with an attorney. Exercising these constitutional rights is not an admission of guilt, nor should anyone feel pressured to waive them simply because investigators request an interview. In many situations, choosing to speak with an attorney before answering questions is one of the most prudent decisions a person can make.

Many people also misunderstand when Miranda warnings apply. Television programs often create the impression that police officers must always advise individuals of their rights before asking questions. In reality, Miranda warnings are generally required only when a person is both in custody and subjected to interrogation. If you voluntarily agree to meet with detectives and are not considered to be in custody, officers may not be required to provide Miranda warnings before questioning you. Nevertheless, statements made during a voluntary interview may still be used as evidence depending on the circumstances of the case.

If detectives contact you and request an interview, it is entirely appropriate to politely inform them that you would like to consult with an attorney before answering any questions. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can communicate directly with investigators, determine the nature of the investigation, advise you regarding your legal rights, and help you make informed decisions about whether an interview is appropriate. In some cases, an attorney may recommend participating in an interview under carefully controlled circumstances. In other situations, remaining silent may be the wiser course of action. Every case is unique and should be evaluated on its own facts.

One of the greatest mistakes individuals make is assuming they can explain away a misunderstanding without legal representation. While that instinct is understandable, seemingly innocent explanations can sometimes provide investigators with information they did not previously possess or inadvertently strengthen the prosecution’s theory of the case. Once a statement has been made, it may be difficult or impossible to retract or clarify later.

Criminal investigations can involve allegations ranging from assault and theft to drug offenses, white-collar crimes, family violence, or homicide. Regardless of the nature of the investigation, early legal representation can play a critical role in protecting your rights and preserving potential defenses. The decisions made before criminal charges are ever filed can significantly affect the outcome of a case.

If detectives have contacted you or you believe you are under criminal investigation, do not assume that speaking with law enforcement without legal counsel is in your best interest. Before making any statement, consult with an experienced Texas criminal defense attorney who can evaluate your circumstances and advise you regarding the most appropriate course of action.

At The Law Firm of Vonnie C. Dones III, we represent individuals facing criminal investigations and criminal charges throughout Texas. We are committed to protecting our clients’ constitutional rights, providing strategic legal guidance, and ensuring that every client receives vigorous representation from the earliest stages of a criminal investigation through trial, if necessary.

If you have been contacted by detectives or believe you are the subject of a criminal investigation, contact The Law Firm of Vonnie C. Dones III to schedule a confidential consultation and discuss your legal options.

Purchasing a Rifle or Shotgun at Age 18

Once you turn 18, you may lawfully purchase a rifle or shotgun from a licensed dealer in Texas, provided you pass the required background check and are not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms under state or federal law.

Transporting Long Guns in a Vehicle Under Texas Law

Texas law is relatively permissive when it comes to transporting rifles and shotguns (commonly referred to as “long guns”) in a motor vehicle. There is no specific Texas statute that restricts transporting a rifle or shotgun in your car so long as you may lawfully possess the firearm.

In practical terms, this means that in Texas:

• The firearm does not have to be unloaded.

• It does not have to be concealed.

• It does not have to be in a locked case.

• There is no statutory requirement that it be stored in any particular location within the vehicle.

As long as the firearm is lawfully possessed, simply having a rifle or shotgun in your vehicle is generally permissible under Texas law.

Important Limitations Still Apply

Although Texas law is permissive, general criminal statutes still apply. You may not possess a firearm:

• While engaged in criminal activity (other than minor traffic offenses),

• If you are otherwise prohibited by state or federal law, or

• In certain prohibited places such as schools, secured airport areas, or other restricted locations in Texas.

Long Guns vs. Handguns: A Critical Distinction

It is important to distinguish long guns from handguns under Texas law. Handguns carried in vehicles are subject to additional visibility and age-related rules. By contrast, rifles and shotguns do not carry those same statutory vehicle restrictions, which is why the rules discussed above apply specifically to long guns.

Traveling Across State Lines: Federal “Safe Passage” Law

If you travel outside Texas and cross state lines, federal “safe passage” law may apply. To qualify for federal protection during interstate travel, the firearm should be:

• Unloaded, and

• Not readily accessible from the passenger compartment (for example, secured in a locked container or the trunk).

These requirements are primarily relevant to interstate travel and do not generally apply when you are traveling solely within Texas.

Practical Considerations Beyond Legality

Even where the law allows a firearm to be kept in a vehicle, several practical and legal considerations should be taken seriously:

1. Theft Risk: Leaving a firearm in a vehicle significantly increases the risk of theft and potential liability if the weapon is later misused.

2. Law Enforcement Encounters: A visible firearm may prompt investigatory stops or heightened safety responses from law enforcement officers.

3. Location-Based Restrictions: Firearms are prohibited in certain locations, including schools, federal facilities, and certain alcohol-related establishments, regardless of whether the firearm is stored in a vehicle.

4. Self-Defense Claims: Simply having a firearm in your car does not automatically justify its use. Any defensive use must still satisfy Texas self-defense laws under Chapters 9 and 46 of the Texas Penal Code.

Firearm Possession and Criminal Records

Individuals with criminal histories must exercise particular caution. Under Texas law, a person convicted of a felony may possess a firearm only at their residence after five years have passed from release from confinement or supervision. However, federal law—applicable nationwide in the United States—generally prohibits a convicted felon from possessing a firearm anywhere, including in their home, unless firearm rights have been formally restored (such as through a pardon or other qualifying legal relief).

In short:

• Texas law: Provides a limited home-possession exception after five years.

• Federal law: Continues to prohibit firearm possession by felons unless civil rights and firearm rights are restored.

Because federal law controls in this area, a felon who possesses a firearm—even solely at home—may still face federal criminal liability unless their rights have been legally restored.

Are AR-15–Style Firearms Treated as Rifles?

An AR-15 is generally considered a rifle under both federal law and the laws of Texas, provided it has a shoulder stock and a barrel of at least 16 inches (or an overall length of at least 26 inches). When configured in that manner, it is treated like any other rifle for purposes of lawful purchase and vehicle transportation under Texas law.

Final Thoughts

Texas provides broad latitude for law-abiding adults to transport rifles and shotguns in their vehicles. However, legality depends heavily on eligibility to possess a firearm, awareness of restricted locations, and compliance with both state and federal law—especially for individuals with prior criminal records or those traveling across state lines.

1. The Legal Definition of DWI in Texas

1. Loss of normal use of mental or physical faculties due to alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances; or
2. Having a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.08% or higher.

2. Reasonable Suspicion and Traffic Stops in Houston DWI Cases

• Speeding or lane deviations
• Failure to maintain a single lane
• Equipment violations
• Reports of erratic driving

3. From Detention to Investigation: Building Toward Probable Cause

• Odor of alcohol
• Bloodshot or watery eyes
• Slurred speech
• Admissions of drinking

4. Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Under Texas Law

Legal BAC Thresholds in Texas

• 0.08% or higher – Per se intoxication for adult drivers (21 and over)
• 0.04% or higher – Commercial motor vehicle drivers while operating a CMV
• Any detectable amount (0.01% or more) – Zero‑tolerance policy for drivers under 21

5. DWI Charges Without a 0.08 BAC

• The BAC result is below 0.08%
• No chemical test was taken
• The driver refused testing altogether

6. Breath Tests, Blood Tests, and Implied Consent

Breath Testing

• Improper calibration
• Medical conditions
• Operator mistakes
• Environmental factors

Blood Testing

• Search warrants
• Chain of custody
• Lab handling and contamination
• Delays between driving and testing

7. High BAC Enhancements (0.15 and Above)

• Potential jail time
• Maximum fines
• Probation conditions

8. Penalties for DWI in Houston & Harris County (2026)

• Jail time
• Heavy fines and court costs
• License suspension
• Ignition interlock requirements
• Alcohol education and treatment programs

9. Defending a Texas DWI Case

• Lack of reasonable suspicion or probable cause
• Improper FST administration
• Unreliable BAC testing
• Illegal blood draws
• Video evidence contradicting officer testimony

10. Why Legal Representation Matters Early

• Demand and preserve evidence
• Challenge BAC procedures
• Contest ALR suspensions
• Position the case for dismissal, reduction, or trial

Houston & Harris County DWI FAQ

Can I be arrested for DWI in Houston without blowing over 0.08?

Should I take the breath test if I’m stopped in Harris County?

Can Houston police force a blood draw in a DWI case?

What happens to my driver’s license after a DWI arrest in Harris County?

How long does a DWI case take in Harris County courts?

Why should I hire a Houston DWI attorney early?

Final Thoughts for Houston & Harris County Drivers

This article explains what these standards mean, how they are applied in Texas, and how recent legal changes affect them — so you can better understand your rights and the defenses available when law enforcement gets involved.

What Is Reasonable Suspicion?

Reasonable suspicion is the legal standard that allows a peace officer to briefly detain and investigate a person. It must be based on specific, articulable facts and rational inferences drawn from those facts — not just a hunch.

A typical example includes an officer observing unusual behavior that suggests criminal activity, such as erratic movement, suspicious behavior in a high-crime area, or corroborated reports from reliable witnesses. Once reasonable suspicion arises, an officer can briefly stop and question a person to confirm or dispel the officer’s concerns.

This is a lower standard than probable cause, but still requires something more than subjective intuition.

What Is Probable Cause?

Probable cause is a higher standard than reasonable suspicion. It exists when the totality of facts and circumstances would lead a reasonable person to believe that a crime has been committed and that the person to be arrested committed it.

In practical terms, probable cause is required for:

• Arrests (without a warrant in many cases), and

• Search warrants, where a judge must be convinced based on sworn information that evidence of a crime will be found at a specific place.

For example, if an officer has reliable witness statements, physical evidence connecting a person to a crime, or admissions by a suspect, this may constitute probable cause to arrest. Unlike reasonable suspicion, which justifies a brief investigative stop, probable cause justifies full custodial arrest or a search backed by a court-issued warrant.

Why These Standards Matter

Probable cause and reasonable suspicion protect individuals from unreasonable government intrusion. If a police stop, search, or arrest lacks the necessary legal basis, evidence obtained as a result — such as statements, contraband, or physical evidence — may be suppressed in court and excluded from use against a defendant.

This is a cornerstone of Fourth Amendment jurisprudence and is enforced in both federal and state courts. A strong argument that law enforcement lacked probable cause or reasonable suspicion can be pivotal in achieving favorable outcomes in criminal cases.

Recent Texas Changes Affecting These Standards

1. Written Findings for Probable Cause (Bail & Arrest Procedures)

One of the key reforms passed in 2025, which took effect September 1, 2025, and continues to shape 2026 practices, involves probate and bail procedures. House Bill 75 now requires magistrates to document and justify in writing their decisions when finding no probable cause in initial hearings following arrest. This enhances transparency in the early stages of criminal proceedings and gives defense attorneys clearer grounds to challenge detention without sufficient evidence.

2. No-Knock Warrant Regulation Efforts

Legislative proposals like HB 1765 have aimed to define when certain warrants — such as no-knock warrants — may be issued by a magistrate. While this bill addresses warrant standards specifically, it reflects the broader legislative trend toward increased oversight of when and how probable cause is assessed before intrusive law enforcement actions occur.

3. Bail & Probable Cause Documentation

Bail law reforms approved in 2025 require written probable cause justifications when magistrates decide to detain a suspect, rather than release them. This strengthens defendants’ ability to contest whether the law enforcement action was justified at the outset of a case.

Practical Implications for Defendants (and Their Attorneys)

Traffic Stops & Investigative Detentions

During a traffic stop or pedestrian stop, an officer can initiate contact based on reasonable suspicion but must escalate to probable cause before making an arrest (unless a warrant authorizes it). Defense counsel will often review the police report and video to determine whether the officer had sufficient justification at each step.

Arrests Without a Warrant

In many cases, law enforcement may make an arrest without a warrant if probable cause exists. However, if the only evidence supporting probable cause was an unverified tip or a vague description of behavior, a court may find that standard was not met and suppress evidence or dismiss charges.

Searches Incident to Arrest

When police arrest someone based on probable cause, they may also search the person and nearby areas without a separate warrant. The legality of that search will hinge on whether probable cause truly existed at the time of arrest.

Bottom Line: Know Your Rights

Understanding reasonable suspicion and probable cause empowers clients and helps defense attorneys vigorously protect constitutional rights. As Texas continues to refine its criminal justice laws, especially around bail, arrest procedures, and warrant standards, these foundational legal concepts remain more important than ever. Defense strategy often begins with examining whether law enforcement acted within legal bounds — and challenging cases that don’t.

If you have questions about a recent stop, your arrest, or whether probable cause existed in your case, it’s vital to consult an attorney promptly. Early legal analysis can make all the difference in preserving your rights and achieving the best outcome.

1. Expanded Expunction Eligibility for Misdemeanor Cases

• Automatic expunction in specific cases: If a person was arrested and later acquitted, pardoned, released due to mistaken identity, or never formally charged, courts are now required to issue an expunction order automatically—without a petition or court appearance.
• Deferred adjudication completion: Individuals who successfully completed deferred adjudication (resulting in dismissal of the case) for certain qualifying misdemeanors may now seek expunction subject to a waiting period, expanding opportunities to clear these records.

• The offense was a misdemeanor arrest for a nonviolent misdemeanor.
• The person was placed on deferred adjudication community supervision under Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Chapter 42A and later received a dismissal and discharge.
• The person has no requirement to register as a sex offender based on the case.
• The individual has remained law‑abiding since the case and has no new non‑traffic criminal cases.
• A waiting period of at least five (5) years has passed since the date of dismissal and discharge.

• Misdemeanors under Chapter 483 of the Texas Health & Safety Code, including controlled‑substance possession and related drug offenses.
• Misdemeanors under the following Texas Penal Code chapters:
  • Chapter 25 – Sexual Offenses
  • Chapter 42 – Disorderly Conduct, Harassment, Stalking, and related offenses
  • Chapter 43 – Public Indecency and related offenses
  • Chapter 46 – Weapons Offenses
  • Chapter 71 – Organized Crime
• Penal Code § 48.02 – Failure to Stop and Give Information
• Crimes classified under Penal Code Title 5 or Title 8, which include many violent or serious offenses

2. Shorter Waiting Periods for Non-Charged Arrests

• Class C misdemeanors: Eligible after 180 days from arrest.
• Class A & Class B misdemeanors: Eligible after 1 year from arrest.
• Felonies: Eligible after 3 years.

3. Discretionary and Court-Ordered Expunctions

• Dismissed after completion of a diversion program (e.g., pretrial intervention, veterans court, or mental-health programs).
• Dismissed for lack of probable cause, even if a formal charge was filed.
• Cases where a grand jury refuses to indict may also be considered.

4. Mandatory Notice and Streamlined Court Process

5. Changes to Fees (Effective January 1, 2026)

• Criminal Defense and Expungement
• DUI & DWI Defense
• Juvenile Law
• Entertainment & Sports Law
• Landlord-Tenant Law
• Small Claims and Civil Disputes
• Record Sealing and Criminal Record Cleanup

• Manufacturing or delivery of Penalty Group 1 Substances (481.112)
• Manufacturing or delivery of Group 1-A Substances 481.1121)
• Manufacturing or delivery of Group 1-B Substances (481.1123)
• Manufacturing or delivery of Group 2 or 2-A Substances (481.113)
• Manufacturing or delivery of Group 3 or 4 Substances (481.114)
• Delivery of Marihuana (Marijuana) (481.120)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (481.125)

• Possession of Penalty Group 1 Substances (481.115)
• Possession of Penalty Group 1-A Substances (481.1151)
• Possession of Penalty Group 2 Substances (481.116)
• Possession of Penalty Group 2-A Substances (481.1161)
• Possession of Penalty Group 3 Substances (481.117)
• Possession of Penalty Group 4 Substances (481.118)
• Possession of Penalty Other Substances (481.119)
• Possession of Marihuana (Marijuana) (481.121)
• Possession of Anhydrous Ammonia (481.1245)
• Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (481.125)