texas Archives • Page 6 of 6 • tfff.org

TX Background Checks: Do Pending Charges Show Up?

Background checks in Texas vary in scope, depending on the purpose for which they are conducted and the entity performing the check. Generally, these checks aim to uncover an individual’s criminal history, which may include arrests, convictions, and any ongoing legal proceedings. The inclusion of pending criminal accusations in the information returned by a background check is subject to specific regulations and the type of record being accessed.

Understanding the extent to which an individual’s past interactions with the legal system are accessible is vital for employers, landlords, and other organizations that rely on these checks to make informed decisions. Awareness of these procedures helps ensure compliance with legal requirements and protects both the individual’s rights and the organization’s interests. Access to criminal history records has evolved over time, reflecting changes in technology, privacy concerns, and the need for accurate and complete information.

Texas Inheritance: When a Spouse Dies, Who Gets the House?

The disposition of a primary residence following the death of a spouse in Texas is governed by a complex interplay of community property laws, separate property laws, homestead protections, and potential estate planning documents like wills. Texas is a community property state, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are owned equally by both spouses. However, separate property, defined as assets owned before the marriage or received during the marriage as a gift or inheritance, is owned solely by the individual spouse.

Understanding these property classifications is critical because they directly impact how the residence will be handled. Moreover, the Texas Constitution provides homestead protections that can significantly restrict the ability of a surviving spouse to sell or be forced to relinquish the residence, even if it is considered separate property of the deceased. Historically, these protections were put in place to ensure families had a place to live and prevent destitution following the death of a provider. The specific legal paths available, and the resulting ownership structure, will differ greatly based on whether a will exists and the specific property designations.