People who have been facing difficulties in finding employment or a place to live due to a previous criminal felony charge now have the chance to have their records sealed.
The Fresh Start program, which initially permitted the concealment of low-level misdemeanor charges from public view, is now extending its reach to encompass certain felonies.
Dominique Crocker, a resident of north Harris County, recently opened up about the challenges she faced due to her criminal record. For years, it proved to be a significant obstacle in her journey to turn her life around.
“I’ve already faced numerous challenges. I’ve been turned down for great job opportunities and denied the chance to rent nice apartments. It left me feeling desperate to turn my life around,” expressed Crocker.
Judge Toria Finch, the overseer of Harris County Criminal Court at Law No. 9, established the Fresh Start program in 2022, inspired by stories like Crocker’s.
Similar programs exist across the country, providing individuals with an opportunity for a fresh start after facing charges for minor offenses. These programs aim to offer second chances to those who seek to rebuild their lives.
According to Finch, the program focuses on cases where deferred adjudication was granted. Deferred adjudication is a form of probation that enables defendants to avoid conviction or jail time provided they meet specific requirements, such as attending counseling, completing community service, or paying fines.
Those who have had their charges dismissed may also qualify.
Initially, the program only covered misdemeanor charges. However, it has now been expanded to include various felonies as well. According to Texas state law, individuals who have faced felony charges but were not convicted may have the opportunity to seal these charges from public view after completing specific requirements and waiting periods.
“It’s like having a scarlet letter that never fades. What’s really unfortunate is that a lot of individuals who have fulfilled their court-mandated responsibilities are unaware that it remains on their record,” stated Finch. “We’re referring to countless people who simply made a poor decision at some point in their lives. However, that decision should not determine their fate forever. In the end, our goal is to provide individuals with the opportunity to reintegrate into society and make meaningful contributions.”
Once records are sealed, charges cannot be publicly viewed on job or housing applications. Only criminal justice agencies, such as law enforcement, attorney’s offices, and the courts, have access to them.
Crocker mentioned that she did not participate in the Fresh Start program. However, she was able to have her record sealed through an arrangement with her judge. She went on to explain how this decision has greatly influenced her life.
“I feel incredibly fortunate at the moment as I have landed a wonderful job and secured a lovely apartment. While I may be experiencing some financial constraints, I am grateful to have a stable foundation to rely on,” expressed Crocker.
The doors of the Harris County Public Defender’s Office opened promptly at noon on Monday, and to everyone’s surprise, all 200 slots for appointments were filled within a mere three hours. The lucky individuals who managed to secure a spot on the list will have the opportunity to meet with the Harris County Public Defender’s Office at Hester House on Saturday, February 10th, at 10 a.m. It’s clear that the demand for their services is high, and many are eager to take advantage of this valuable resource.
The program is held quarterly for individuals who still wish to enroll. The upcoming registration periods are scheduled for May, August, and November.
A “Know Your Rights Housing Workshop for Landlords and Tenants” is scheduled to take place at the February event. There will be no capacity limit for this workshop, allowing attendees to come and go as they please. The sessions will consist of a short presentation followed by a question and answer period. Topics covered in the workshop will include contracts, expectations, landlord and tenant rights, as well as the eviction process.
