What does it mean that my case is no-billed by the grand jury in Texas?
I have been very recently arrested for allegedly stalking my dating partner. Today police told me my case was no-billed by the grand jury and it is over. What does it mean? Am I a criminal? How does the justice system look at me? Am I considered committed a crime?
No, you are not a criminal. Your case was heard by the Grand Jury and they did not return an indictment, (felony charges were not accepted). The district attorneys office can re-present the case if they obtain additional evidence, but it is unlikely. You need to contact the DA's office and verify the information you received from the police was accurate. If you were never arrested, then you do not have a "criminal record" for this offense.
It means that the grand jury decided that they don't believe that the DA should pursue the case.
Does that mean you are not a criminal? No. You could be guilty as heck abs still get no billed. None of us know if you've committed a crime, but we know that you are now allowed to have it expunged from your record (when certain other conditions are met).
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It means your case is over for now. While the prosecutors could still resubmit your case to a grand jury any time within the statute of limitations (3 years from the date of the alleged offense), unless they discover new evidence it would be highly unlikely for them to attempt. So you are very probably in the clear. Stay far away from the person you were alleged to have been stalking, because presently weak evidence just might turn very strong if there are exacerbations to the facts. You should consult with an attorney to determine when an expunction would be available to you so you can erase the record of your arrest/charge.
Tami C. Pierce
Criminal Defense Attorney in Humble, TXSince you were arrested and no indictment you should be automatically eligible for an expungment. Call an attorney that handles expungments.
Asker
Thank you attorney Tami for your help! Appreciated!