Florida Mugshot Removal - Complete Guide & Legal Help

Florida law (Florida Statute § 901.43) empowers you to request the removal of your mugshot from certain websites. Here's a breakdown of the process:

1. Check Your Eligibility

Before proceeding, determine if you qualify for mugshot removal. You may be eligible if:

• Dismissed charges: If the charges against you were dismissed or dropped.
• Not guilty verdicts: If you were acquitted of the charges.
• Arrests that don't lead to charges: If you were arrested but never formally charged.
• Cases with adjudication withheld: In some cases, even if you pled guilty or no contest, adjudication may have been withheld. This can make you eligible for removal depending on the specific circumstances.

In some cases, mugshot removal is possible without expunging your record. However, expungement strengthens your legal position and often makes removal faster and more reliable.

2. Seal or Expunge Your Record

Expunging or sealing your criminal record provides the strongest legal basis for demanding mugshot removal. Once your record is sealed or expunged, Florida law requires websites to remove your mugshot upon request.

To learn more about the expungement and sealing process in Florida, visit our detailed guide: Florida Expungement Process & Legal Help.

3. Locate All Websites Publishing Your Mugshot

Make a list of all websites where your mugshot appears. Common offenders include:

• Mugshots.com
• Arrests.org
• BustedMugshots.com
• Local jail websites and news aggregators

💡Tips: Use Google or ChatGPT to navigate all instances of your mugshot quickly.

4. Craft Your Removal Request:

Florida law requires a written request sent by certified mail with proof of receipt. Your request should include:

• Your full name and date of birth
• Copy of the expungement/sealing order
• A clear identification of the mugshot you want to remove
• The specific website address (URL) where the mugshot appears
• The reason for requesting removal (e.g., charges dismissed)
• A copy of a valid ID (driver's license, passport)

5. Send Your Request:

Send your request with a copy of your ID to the website's registered agent (often listed on their website or through domain name lookup tools).

6. Follow Up (if necessary):

Florida law gives websites 10 days to respond to your request. If you don't receive a response or your request is denied, consider these options:

• Resend the request: Sometimes, mistakes happen. A polite resend might be enough.
• Seek legal help: An attorney specializing in Florida mugshot removal can significantly increase your chances of success and handle complex situations.

Important to Note:

• For non-profit websites, there is a high likelihood that they will not comply with your mugshot removal request. In such cases, there are advanced techniques available to help remove your mugshot from Google; however, this process can be complex, and it is advisable to seek expert assistance to accomplish it.