Can I Have My Arrest Record Sealed Before I Change Jobs?

If you are preparing for your next career move and are worried about a past arrest showing up on your background check, there is a possibility of having your arrest record sealed before applying for a new position. 

At The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan, our industry-leading Florida expungement attorneys have extensive experience with the process of record sealing and are ready to provide top-tier legal guidance and representation.

Understanding Record Sealing

Record sealing is a legal process that restricts public access to your arrest record. While it is different from expungement in that expunging a record results in it being erased or destroyed, once a record is sealed, it will not appear in most background checks conducted by private employers or members of the general public. That being said, there are a few government agencies, such as law enforcement and courts, that may still have access to your sealed record.

Reviewing Eligibility for Sealing and Filing a Petition

Before you can seal your arrest record, there are certain eligibility requirements that you must meet, including: 

• You must not have an arrest that led to a conviction
• You must not have been charged with a violent crime or sex crime, as they are ineligible for sealing
• You must have completed all court-imposed terms and conditions before petitioning to seal your record, whether it be probation, parole, or community service

The process of filing a formal petition to have your record sealed requires a lot of moving parts, and if you are searching “how to seal or expunge my Florida record,” it is highly advised that you work with a law firm that specializes in these lengthy and complicated processes. Our Frequently Asked Questions page also provides more information on eligibility requirements.

What is the Timeframe for Sealing a Record?

It is important to know that the sealing process is not immediate. It can take several months or longer, based on factors such as the court’s workload, the complexity of your case, and whether any objections are raised during the court proceedings.

If you are planning to change jobs soon, you should factor this variability into your timeframe.  Because, while a sealed record can prevent many employers from seeing your arrest, your record might still appear on background checks during the time it takes for the court to formally process your request. That being said, the Florida expungement attorneys with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan highly recommend that you begin the sealing process as early as possible.

How The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan Can Help You Secure a Better Future

Having your arrest record sealed can significantly improve your chances of passing a background check and getting a new job. At The Law Firm of Timothy Sullivan, we are prepared to guide you through every step of the record sealing process. If you have questions about your eligibility or want assistance filing a petition, do not wait to contact us for a free consultation.

If you are wondering ‘Can I seal or expunge my Florida arrest record’ to best set you up for a career change, work with The Law Office of Timothy Sullivan. For a complimentary case consultation, call us at (727) 855-3847.