In pursuing a clean legal slate in Florida, the first step is understanding expungement and sealing costs. As we enter 2025, this up-to-date guide will provide an overview of how much expungement in Florida costs. With this information, you’ll be better prepared financially and can streamline your expungement process.
In this guide, we will break down the various costs involved in Florida expungement, including Florida expungement lawyer costs, court fees, and charges for related paperwork. Being informed about these expenses will empower you to make knowledgeable decisions on your journey toward a cleaner record.
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Expungement Lawyer Fees | $750 |
| Court Fees | $42 |
| Certified Copy Fees | $40 |
| Document Retrieval Costs | $22 |
| Notary Fees | $30 |
| Mailing Costs | $36 |
| FDLE Application Fee | $75 |
| Total Cost | $995 |
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Mugshot (each) | $250 |
| Mugshot (x3) | $595 |
| Background Check Removal Services (previous clients) | $1,000 |
| Background Check Removal Services (non-previous clients) | $1,595 |
| Attorney Legal Case Analysis Letter in Support of Background Check | $250 |
An expungement in Florida typically costs around $995, but can vary depending on attorney fees and the complexity of your case. The process itself usually takes 5-7 months to complete, though this timeframe can fluctuate based on court workloads and any unforeseen issues.
In Florida, the cost of hiring an expungement lawyer starts from $750. This price point typically covers the attorney's flat fee for a relatively uncomplicated expungement case. It likely excludes additional expenses such as court filing fees, document retrieval, notary services, mailing costs, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) application fee. Be sure to inquire about these potential additional charges upfront to get a more accurate estimate of your total expungement cost.
Filing for expungement necessitates payment of court fees, which can vary based on jurisdiction and the nature of the expunged record. These fees are included as administrative costs associated with processing the expungement petition through the legal system.
Complementing court fees, additional processing fees may be tied to administrative tasks integral to the expungement process. These fees are part of the overall financial considerations when pursuing record expungement.
Retrieving necessary documents for the expungement petition may incur costs, such as obtaining copies of court records or other relevant paperwork. These document retrieval expenses are essential to factor into the total cost to expunge record.
Some jurisdictions may require notarized documents as part of the expungement application. Notary fees are a consideration, adding to the miscellaneous costs associated with the legal procedures.
Mailing costs for expungement in Florida typically total around $36. This includes sending documents to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Clerk of Court, and sometimes the State Attorney’s office. Using Certified Mail with Return Receipt is recommended for tracking and delivery confirmation. Each mailing generally costs between $10–$12, depending on weight and location, ensuring your documents are securely delivered without delays.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) charges a $75 application fee for processing expungement requests. This fee covers the review of your criminal history and ensures compliance with state laws. Payment must accompany your application and can typically be made by money order, cashier’s check, or credit card, depending on FDLE’s guidelines. This is a mandatory cost for anyone seeking to seal or expunge their record in Florida.
While most cases fit the flat-fee model, additional services may include:
These are always quoted in advance and never required unless requested.
Several variables can influence the final cost of expunging your record, even within a flat-fee model. These include:
We evaluate each client’s situation individually and provide a clear, upfront quote before you commit.
Although it’s legally permissible to file an expungement or sealing petition on your own, hiring a lawyer provides significant advantages:
In short, paying for a qualified expungement lawyer is an investment in getting your record cleared correctly, efficiently, and with minimal stress.
Erase The Case is a reputable firm specializing in Florida record expungements. With a transparent pricing structure starting at $995, individuals benefit from legal representation and a clear understanding of Florida expungement costs. This inclusive fee covers:
There are no hidden fees. We pride ourselves on full transparency.
We now offer our "Expunge Now, Pay Later" plan to make expungement affordable from day one.
Start your case immediately with $0 down, and pay the total fee in low monthly installments—no interest, no hidden charges. It’s fast, secure, and handled entirely through our client portal.
Visit our pricing page for more details or apply for free case review below.
Yes, we cover that as part of our $995 flat fee.
If we determine you're not eligible at the start, you pay nothing. We conduct a free eligibility review.
The total cost of expungement in Florida generally ranges from $750 to $1,500+, depending on several factors. This includes the $75 fee to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), application and processing fees, and attorney’s fees, which can vary based on the complexity of the case.
Most expungement attorneys in Florida charge a flat fee, not hourly, to ensure cost predictability. This fee often covers the entire process, including filing, correspondence, and court appearances (if required).
It is possible to file pro se (on your own), but the process is legally technical and can be time-consuming. Mistakes can lead to delays or denials. Hiring an attorney often increases success rates and reduces long-term frustration.
Expungement is a one-time legal process, so there are no recurring costs unless the initial petition is denied and must be refiled. Future legal services (e.g., mugshot removal or background check disputes) may incur additional charges.
