A criminal conviction can still appear in a background check after you finish your sentence. You may notice its effect when you apply for a licensed job or try to rent an apartment. In both situations, someone can review your record before deciding what options to give you.
Texas law sets rules for professional licenses, while federal law gives you certain rights when landlords use tenant screening reports. Knowing how each process works can help you understand why a past case may still matter.
Licensing issues after a conviction
If your career requires a state license, a conviction may affect your ability to keep or obtain it. Texas law lets a licensing authority suspend or revoke a license for certain offenses. The agency can also deny a new license or keep you from taking a required exam.
The agency also looks at how closely the offense connects to your job. It considers the type and seriousness of the crime along with the duties of your profession. If it finds a direct link, the agency reviews factors such as how much time has passed and what you have done since the offense.
Your record may matter to landlords
A landlord may use a tenant screening report when you apply for an apartment. The report can include your criminal history along with other background information. Meeting the property’s income rules does not stop the landlord from reviewing that part of your record.
If the landlord denies your application or offers less favorable terms based on the report, federal law requires a notice explaining the decision. You can request a free copy of the report within 60 days and dispute information that is wrong or incomplete.
Review the records others may see
It may help to know what appears in the records that licensing agencies and landlords review. You can keep documents that show how your case ended and check your tenant screening report for errors. If you are unsure how your record may affect you after your case ends, legal guidance can help you understand the options available to you.