Sealing/Expunging
FLORIDA SEALING AND EXPUNGING CRIMINAL RECORDS
The difference between sealing and expunging is this:
Sealing merely means that the record (not the arrest) is sealed from viewing to the public.
Expunging means that the records (not the arrest) are literally destroyed and unavailable for anyone to find.
You can ONLY seal or expunge a record if the following criteria are met:
- You were not convicted of the crime. That is, when you pled adjudication was WITHHELD. (A withhold of adjudication means there was no formal finding of guilt by a judge.)
- It is not a sex crime or a battery (or certain other violent crimes - call me if you have questions)
- You have not been convicted of ANY OTHER CRIMES, whether misdemeanor or felony.
The key in most cases is the CONVICTION. If there is one, you are NOT Eligible.
- The State Attorney, the Judge, and Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) agree that your record can be sealed.
At Pawuk & Pawuk, we would be happy to answer any questions you have if you think that you might be eligible for sealing or expunging your criminal record. Call us for a free consultation.
Pinellas County Florida Criminal Lawyer Blog - Sealing/Expunge Criminal Records
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