Asked 6/21/2016 – El Paso, TX

I am 19 years old, got caught a while back with a backpack which contained a grinder, pipe, and containers but no marijuana. I had court today and being the honest citizen that I am, I found no reason to lie and say innocent however when I asked for a differed adjudication, the judge said no and simply to continue to speak to the clerk which told me the amount I owed for the fine.

My question as a college student, is there any way to get this expunged well after I pleaded guilty? I am fine with the fact that I was caught and have to pay a fine but I want to make sure this doesn’t affect my plans on continuing to graduate school or getting a career in psychology. I realize it was a dumb mistake but I’m sure many college students go through it.
I heard about some form I can sign to get it off my record when I am 21 or that if I talk to an attorney soon I might able to do something. I also heard of cases from peers where they were given the chance to do probation time and it got off their record, did I not get this offer because of my previous traffic violation (On my way to work I was going 97mph in a 65 and pleaded guilty and paid the ticket 8 months back)?
Thank you.

Answer

Final convictions are just that: final. They can never be removed from your record. Contact a local attorney IMMEDIATELY. If the judgment was entered June 20, it MAY be possible to set aside the judgment and/or appeal the case.