Criminal records are open to the public in Hillsborough, Florida. That means anybody can dig up someone's criminal past through a background check.
Because prior criminal activity can have serious and irreversible effects, Florida law offers two distinct ways for an individual to apply for the removal and sealing of criminal records. Observe that sealing and expunging a criminal past have certain distinctions despite their similarities. Read on to learn more about record sealing vs expungement and why you should call a Hillsborough County expungement lawyer for legal help. Grab this once in a lifetime now.
Related Article: Tampa Expungement Lawyer: Seal & Expunge Records With Trusted Attorneys.
A criminal record may be sealed by Florida Statute 943.045 by prohibiting access by anybody who isn't legally entitled to it. A sealed record is essentially one that the court has kept hidden from the general public, keeping it under "seal" in the criminal agency's and the judicial system's files.
A criminal record may be expunged by a court order requiring any criminal agency in possession of the records to physically destroy all records and information related to the criminal records stated in Florida Statute 943.045(16).
In simpler terms, "Expungement" refers to eliminating information from public records. While "sealed" records mean only limited access. The Clerk's Expungement and Sealing Unit (ESU) can help you seal or expunge your criminal history record(s).
You should be aware of the following advantages of record expungement in Hillsborough after learning about the distinctions between record sealing vs expungement:
If you are already convicted with criminal charges you are no longer eligible for expungement. Nonetheless, you can only apply for sealing or expunging your criminal record in Hillsborough County if:
Furthermore, Florida Statutes 943.0585 also states that the fulfillment of the whole term, including probation and restitution is a requirement for eligibility. Only non-violent crimes meet the qualifying offense requirements and depending on the type of offense, the waiting period can range from five to ten years after conviction.
Keep in mind that sealing or expunging your Beach County criminal records only happens once in a person's lifetime. Talk with a Hillsborough County expungement lawyer and learn more about eligibility requirements.
To have your record expunged in Hillsborough County, you will have to prepare for an amount that ranges from $75 to $1,500, depending on your case and Hillsborough County expungement attorney.
Both record sealing and expungement typically take 5-7 months. Good thing is that Erase the Case provides the best service that only takes 90 days—so those who meet the requirements may rest easy knowing that their criminal record in Florida can be sealed or erased.
It's crucial to consider the following while working with a Hillsborough County expungement attorney to remove your Beach County criminal records:
Here are some pointers to help you choose the attorney suited to handle your legal needs:
In Erase The Case, our top-notch Hillsborough County expungement attorneys are knowledgeable and experienced in eliminating Beach County criminal records, necessary to secure your second opportunity at life. Have your record expunged in Hillsborough County with us, now!
