Five Things You Should Know About Arrest Record Expungement in Florida

We hear it all the time: a criminal arrest from years ago is affecting employment opportunities, housing opportunities and even dating relationships. In this article, Florida Expungement Attorney Timothy Sullivan provides five things you must know about getting your Florida arrest record expunged.

1. Eligibility Matters

Not every arrest can be expunged. Generally speaking, to have the record of your criminal arrest expunged, the charge must have been dismissed or you must have been acquitted by a judge or jury. On the other hand, if your charge was not dismissed but you were not convicted and instead received a “withhold of adjudication,” you are not eligible to expunge the record, but may be eligible to seal the record of the arrest.

2. The Process is Complex

Expungement is not a simple task. It involves filing specific forms, collecting documentation, and potentially attending a hearing. A top-rated Florida expungement lawyer can help navigate this complex process and ensure all requirements are met. There have been many instances where clients have attempted to perform an expungement without a lawyer, only to have to retain us later to fix problems.

3. Time Frames Vary

The time it takes to complete the expungement process can vary. We find that in most cases, we can complete a record expungement within 6-8 months of the day that we are retained.

4. Sealing vs. Expungement

It’s important to differentiate between sealing and expungement. Sealing a record means it will still exist but won’t be accessible to the general public. Expungement, on the other hand, removes the record entirely from public view. As noted above, if an individual is not eligible to expunge his or her record, a record sealing may be an available remedy.

5. Duty to Disclose an Arrest Even After a Records Expungement

There are some careers where a record expungement does not shield an individual from a duty to disclose an arrest. For example, applicants to the Florida bar must disclose an arrest, even if the record of the arrest has been expunged.

Contact Our Office to Begin the Process of Clearing Your Name

Given the complexities involved, consulting a Florida expungement attorney can significantly increase your chances of success. They can provide personalized guidance, represent you in court, and help you understand the nuances of your case.

If you’re ready to take control of your future, contact the Law Office of Timothy Sullivan at 727-855-3847. Let us help you navigate the expungement process and reclaim your peace of mind.