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Seal & Expunge

       Sealing and expunging criminal records in Florida are processes that can help individuals limit access to their past criminal history. They are two separate processes that vary in a few ways. 

Sealing:
When a record is sealed, it becomes confidential and inaccessible to the general public. However, the record still exists and can be accessed by certain government agencies and in specific circumstances. Sealing is typically available when adjudication was withheld by the court, usually after a plea of guilty or no contest.

Expungement:
Expungement involves the physical destruction of all criminal records, except for one confidential copy kept by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Expungement is generally available when charges were dismissed, dropped, not pursued, or resulted in an acquittal after trial. 

What We Do: 

  1. Screen your criminal history background
  2. Determine which process you are likely to be eligible for
  3. Gather the required documents
  4. Submit your application to FDLE
  5. Inform you of their determination
  6. Petition the courts if you are granted a Certificate of Eligibility
  7. Ensure the proper agencies are notified of the court’s decision

Contact us today about your potential sealing and expungement case!

Anderson & Ackerman Expertise Profile
Lead Counsel Anderson & Ackerman
Anderson & Ackerman Expertise Profile