erase the case logo

Benefits of Sealing or Expunging Criminal Records in Florida

David Weisselberger | May 29, 2025

DO I QUALYFY?
e-filing portal logo
national trial lawyers top 40 under 40 logo
bbb logo
florida bar logo
aba logo
shopper approved logo
lawpay logo

Having a criminal record in Florida can create lasting barriers—even if the charges were dropped or you were never convicted. Fortunately, Florida law allows individuals to expunge or seal certain criminal records under qualifying circumstances. This legal process can offer a fresh start and open doors previously closed due to a public record of arrest.

Below, we break down the key benefits of expungement in Florida and why taking action can be a life-changing decision.

benefits of expungement

1. Protect Your Reputation and Privacy

An arrest record, regardless of the outcome, can harm your reputation. Even if charges were dropped or you were never convicted, the arrest becomes part of your public record and is accessible to employers, landlords, and the general public.

Sealing or expunging your criminal record ensures that:

  • Your arrest history is no longer available to the public.
  • Most private employers and individuals conducting background checks cannot access the record.
  • Your privacy is protected, allowing you to move forward without the stigma of a public criminal history.

2. Enhance Employment Opportunities

Many employers conduct background checks during their hiring process. Even if you were never convicted, having a court file related to an arrest can lead to automatic disqualification from job opportunities.

By sealing or expunging your record, you can:

  • Legally deny the arrest or charge on most job applications.
  • Ensure that your file is not disclosed to private employers.
  • Improve your chances of securing employment without having to explain your past.

3. Increase Access to Good Education

Colleges, universities, and vocational programs often examine applicants' criminal histories during the admissions process. A public record can significantly decrease your chances of being accepted, even if you are trying to make a fresh start.

Sealing your record can:

  • Eliminate a significant obstacle in the admissions process.
  • Decrease the likelihood of discrimination based on your past.
  • Provide access to scholarships, housing, and federal student aid that you might otherwise be denied.

4. Find Emotional Relief & Peace of Mind

A criminal record comes with more than just legal consequences; it also imposes an emotional burden due to the public accessibility of your past.

When you seal or expunge a criminal record, you can:

  • Regain control over your narrative.
  • Remove a constant reminder of a challenging time in your life.
  • Focus on rebuilding your personal and professional future with confidence.

5. Shorten Firearm Restriction Periods

In Florida, individuals awaiting adjudication or who have recently resolved certain criminal charges, particularly felonies or domestic violence-related offenses, are restricted from owning or purchasing firearms for a specified period (often three years post-resolution).

While sealing or expunging a record does not automatically restore firearm rights:

  • It may help in certain legal scenarios where eligibility is reviewed.
  • It signals rehabilitation and compliance, which may support a petition or application down the line.

Expunging or Sealing a Record in Florida? Get Legal Help Now!

We have decades of experience getting records sealed or expunged at Erase the Case. However, each case is different, so book your free consultation to discuss the unique facts surrounding your arrest record, and we will tell you whether you are eligible to have a criminal record expunged or sealed.

Let us evaluate your case and guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.

📞 Call us today at (866) 372-7335
📧 Email: lawyer@erasethecase.com

Take the first step toward clearing your record and reclaiming your future.

Expunge your criminal record with ease!

We are proud to be the fastest expungement service in Florida.
5/5 - (2 votes)
Florida Expungement Ultimate Guide

Get to know the expungement eligibility, process, timeline, and legal help.
LEARN MORE
Free Eligibility Test
Only takes 2 minutes to find out if you are eligiblie. Take our test now!
Need Legal Help?
Contact our expungement lawyer and schedule a consultation now!
1 (866) 372-7335
Florida Expungement
David Weisselberger top Florida expungement lawyers
David Weisselberger
Author | Founder
"David Weisselberger is the founder of Erase The Case. He completed his Bachelor of Arts at the University of Florida, & also his Juris Doctor from UM School of Law. Afterwards, He has been working as a former Miami-Dade County Assistant Public Defender. Also, as a solo lawyer and former associate at South Florida’s honored Saban & Solomon Law Firm. He has learned firsthand the effects people face from having a public criminal arrest record mark their lives. Therefore, David has always been working hard to help people get rid of haunting crimnal past and have a second chance in life"

Trusted process. Proven results.

We have provided more expungements than any other law firm in the state of Florida, but don't just take our word for it.  
google reviews
  • google logo5-star rating
    "My experience with this law firm was exceptional. After submitting the required documents, they took care of everything with ease, professionalism, and expediency. I was kept informed throughout the process. In only 3 months, all record of my case was erased from my background check. I used the "expunge now, pay later" option, which let me pay the fee over time with Affirm."
    Lee County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "I'm beyond happy right now, I contacted David about my case few months ago and right away he was able to help me , the whole process was very easy they kept me updated every step now my case is sealed.very professional I recommend this firm, if I can give more than 5 stars I would. "
    Miami-Dade County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "I would recommend anyone that has a background to use Erase the Case Services. David is a great lawyer answers all of your questions keeps you updated during the process. The staff there are excellent people very professional. The process doesn't even take long!"
    Broward County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "After having doubts about Erase the case the expungement law firm, David and his team gave me the piece of mind I've been searching for after successfully expunging my case... I 100% recommend Erase the case to anybody in need of help. Again, thanks David for everything."
    Orange County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "It was such a clear and straightforward experience all the way through, I'm grateful and thankful that I found their services! Companies like this give hope to those that have had hardships in life a chance to a better future. Erase the Case did an amazing job, they stand on behalf of those looking to change their lives for good! Thank you."
    Hillsborough County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "David is extremely professional and knowledgable in his craft. He and his team will ensure you receive excellent legal care and advice. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for representation that you can trust and at reasonable retainers. Do not hesitate to reach out. Thanks David"
    Palm Beach County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "Erase the case has been a pleasure to work with. Attorneys are respectful of your situation and provide realistic honest expectations. They are very responsive and there if you need to contact them. It's great to be able to speak directly with the attorney regarding any issue."
    Duval County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "Great communication and keeping me updated with the process. He handled everything so professionally and kept in the loop at all times. I highly recommend EraseTheCase! Thank you so much for your assistance with my case."
    Pinellas County
  • google logo5-star rating
    "David made the process simple and thoroughly explained everything. He made himself available to answer questions and was timely in responding to emails. He is very knowledgeable In this area and I would recommend him to anyone looking to complete this process."
    Polk County
Click to see more reviews.
google reviews logoshopper approved logo
phone-handsetcrossmenu
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram