In Florida, you are generally limited to sealing or expunging a criminal record once in your lifetime. Under Florida Statutes §943.0585 and §943.059, this one-time mean restriction applies to your entire adult criminal history, regardless of the time elapsed or the number of different charges involved.
You can eligible for expungement if you were not charged with a crime, had your charges dismissed, or were found not guilty. Eligibility also makes it through if you were a juvenile who committed a non-violent crime and have not committed any other crimes since.
Can You Expunge More Than One Criminal Record in Florida?
While Florida generally restricts individuals to one lifetime expungement or sealing. However, there are primary exceptions that allow for expunging or sealing multiple records at once. This exception are:
- Related Cases Exception: Multiple arrests or cases can be sealed or expunged together if they are deemed directly related (a “nexus” exists) to a single criminal episode or incident.
- The 10-Year Rule: If you successfully sealed a record, you may petition to have that same record expunged after it has been sealed for at least 10 years, provided the case was not a disqualifying offense.
- Juvenile Records: Florida law allows for certain administrative or diversion-based juvenile expungements that do not count against your one-time adult limit.
- Eligibility Criteria: To qualify for court-ordered relief, the case must have resulted in a dismissal, “Nolle Prosequi” (dropped charges), an acquittal, or a “Withhold of Adjudication” (for sealing).
- Disqualification: You are generally ineligible for record clearing if you have ever been adjudicated guilty (convicted) of any criminal offense in Florida or if you have previously received a court-ordered sealing or expunction for an unrelated incident.
Note: Because the petition for multiple related cases is a specialized legal process, it is recommended to consult with a lawyer focused on record relief to ensure your specific case history meets the “single incident” statutory threshold.
Florida Expungement Process: What You Need To Know?
Expunging your criminal record in Florida involves several straightforward steps. First and foremost, however, you need to make sure that you meet the statutory eligibility conditions as set forth under Florida Statute 943.0585.
In other words, you qualify. If you do qualify, then you will need official documents from the clerk of courts proving the outcome of your case. Next, you’ll need to submit an FDLE application to determine eligibility, which is reviewed by Florida authorities.
After receiving your eligibility confirmation, you’ll petition the court to finalize the expungement. For detailed guidance, refer to our comprehensive Florida expungement and sealing page.
Contact Our Florida Expungement Lawyer
Navigating Florida’s expungement process can be complex and time-consuming. At Erase The Case, we specialize exclusively in expungement cases, ensuring the fastest possible results and maintaining the highest 5-star client satisfaction rating. Our experienced Florida expungement lawyer is here to help you regain your peace of mind quickly and effectively.
Contact us today:
- Phone: (866) 372-7335
- Email: lawyer@erasethecase.com
FAQs
How long does the Florida expungement process take?
It typically takes five to seven months, depending on court and agency processing times.
Can you expunge a felony in Florida?
Only certain felonies are eligible; violent or serious felonies are typically ineligible.
Can you expunge different charges separately in Florida?
No, only one arrest or incident per expungement petition.
