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The Difference Between Closing a Criminal Case and Clearing the Record of It

Legal paperwork is something majority of people do not think about until it suddenly comes to their focus. A citation is handed out through the car window. The letter reveals a notice that a driver’s license has been suspended. A background check by the employer uncovers an old criminal record. The couple divorces, and realizes that a divorce can be legally finalized, even if they have agreed to it.

Every document has its own problem, but all share one thing in common: What you do with your paperwork could affect the future of your business.

A Traffic Citation That You Were Tempted to Simply Pay

A speeding penalty can look to be more of an expense than an issue of law. The decision to pay it might appear to be the fastest solution but motorists must know the significance of this payment before making a decision.

A lawyer who specializes in traffic ticket cases will review the citation and its court as well as the past of the motorist, as well any resolutions available. Robert Andrew Navar represents motorists across El Paso County. This includes cases before the El Paso Municipal Court or Justice of the Peace Courts.

If you’re driving professionally or rely on a great driving record to get a job, it is vital to think beyond the value of the ticket.

The notice states that your driving privileges are at risk

The consequences of having a suspended license extend beyond the realm of transportation. El Paso residents may depend on their vehicles to get throughout the city, transport kids to school, take them to appointments, or simply purchase groceries.

An attorney for occupational driver licenses may be able to assist with requesting restricted driving privileges when eligibility requirements are met. The aim isn’t to cancel the underlying suspension. The occupational license allows people to drive for only necessary reasons.

The DWI form with its own timetable

Some people who are arrested for DWI are assuming that the case will be resolved at a subsequent court appearance. It is vital to stay aware of the deadlines for driver’s license penalties.

A DWI lawyer can review all aspects of the situation such as the circumstances surrounding the traffic stop, evidence collected by law enforcement officers, the testing procedure, criminal allegations and possible license implications.

It’s the old record which suddenly comes back to life

A case could be closed without the entire record disappearing. An old criminal record or arrest might surface when someone is applying for an employment, housing or another opportunity that requires a background investigation. Texas law allows for certain types of qualifying records to be removed. Other situations may require other forms of relief.

A lawyer for expunction can look over the original decision to determine if the decision is within the legal requirements. The result of the initial case is important and that is the reason why record clearing should be evaluated individually rather than treated as an administrative requirement that is automatic.

The Divorce Agreement That Needs to Be a Court Order

Uncontested divorces seem simple, because there’s no fight between the spouses. While cooperation is definitely helpful, important decisions need to be made into legal documents.

An uncontested divorce lawyer can help ensure the paperwork reflects what both spouses actually agreed upon. Based on the marriage agreement, this may include debts, property, financial arrangements and other obligations that continue after the divorce is final.

When everyone is in agreement clarified documentation is beneficial. It helps to reduce the likelihood that a lack of communication today could lead to disagreements tomorrow.

It is recommended to read the entire document prior to writing the next chapter.

Traffic citations, license restrictions, DWI allegations, old criminal records, divorce papers carry very distinct legal implications. These documents should not be put away on your kitchen counter.

Robert Andrew Navar’s El Paso practice helps clients to determine what the meaning of a document is and what deadlines or processes might apply, and which legal avenues are available. The first step isn’t always to contest, pay, or file anything. The information you gather about the documents will be changing is crucial before making a choice.

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