A person’s criminal history record has the power to dictate and limit them for the rest of their lives, even if it was a one-time mistake. In a country that promotes the possibility of reformation and redemption, people have the right to request that the court seal or expunge all public records of their criminal charges or arrests.
Having a record expunged allows people the chance to move on from their prior convictions and continue their life without the restrictions and judgment of a criminal arrest record.
That said, Florida law does not provide this privilege to everyone, and there are often complications during the legal process, which is why criminal record expungement lawyer such as Erase The Case exist to provide advice and assistance along the way.
What Is Criminal Record Expungement?
Expunging a criminal record is the process of having it sealed and eventually removed from all public records. Under Florida law, expunged criminal history records must be removed from all internet sites with public access, including online government records. It remains on an actual record privately and is covered by special protection rights.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement allows many people to seal or expunge their record. However, any of the following lewd or lascivious offenses committed are not expungable in Florida:
- Aggravated child abuse, elderly abuse, or abuse of a disabled person
- Sexual offender (exceptions are available under certain circumstances)
- Aggravated assault or battery
- Drug trafficking or manufacturing
- Homicide or manslaughter
- Any sexual activity involving a minor
- Violating the Florida Communications Fraud Act
- Arson
- Terrorism
- Assault of a member of law enforcement
- Various other acts of theft or violence (36 in total)
Expunging criminal records is not a free pass, nor is it an easy way around Florida statutes or law enforcement agencies. It is an option available to those who wish to put their past behind them and live their lives as good and honest people, seeking employment and correcting their paths.
Do I Need a Lawyer to Expunge My Record in Florida?
Although it’s possible to expunge your record in Florida without a lawyer, it’s highly recommended to seek legal assistance. The expungement process can be complicated, involving specific eligibility requirements, detailed paperwork, and strict procedures that must be followed precisely. A lawyer specializing in expungement can help you navigate these complexities, ensuring that all necessary documents are gathered and submitted correctly.
They can also address any potential legal challenges that may arise, increasing your chances of success. Ultimately, having a lawyer handle your case provides a higher likelihood of having your record expunged and ensures the process goes smoothly.
How Can Lawyers Help Get a Criminal History Record Expunged?
Expunge your criminal record with ease!
An expungement expert can help to get a criminal record sealed or expunged in as little as two months, depending on the criminal offense.
To get a record sealed or expunged, a lawyer can go back to before a person was even found guilty. They can gather evidence from the law offices that were involved at the time, court records with details of the case, and can find any other relevant information on the Florida record.
An attorney can get a record sealed or expunged under the Florida Statutes Section 943.059 or 943.0585 for juvenile justice. It is possible based on the conviction, the arrest circumstance, the actions since the crime, and the overall circumstances of the case.
Why Hire an Experienced Florida Expungement Lawyer?
Expungement cases in Florida are often complex, requiring careful navigation through legal processes. From juvenile diversion to human trafficking expungement, numerous factors must be considered. The State Attorney’s Office typically requires strong justification to approve a sealed record, making it essential to have skilled representation.
Key Reasons to Hire Legal Assistance:
- Improved Success Rate: Attorneys are better equipped to handle the complexities of expungement, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
- Expertise with Difficult Cases: Some records are especially challenging to expunge, making professional legal counsel invaluable.
Now is an excellent time to pursue expungement, as out-of-state convictions no longer affect eligibility in Florida. This is particularly important because:
- Many jobs require background checks, including records of juvenile interactions.
- Certain areas restrict residency for individuals with criminal records.
- Discrimination against people with records remains a significant barrier, regardless of personal progress.
Be cautious of online services promising record deletions, as many are scams that can cause more harm than good. Ultimately, hiring an experienced attorney is the wisest choice to ensure the best chance of success. The Erase the Case team, Florida’s leading expungement law firm, has an exceptional track record in helping clients clear their records.
Get Your Record Expunged with Erase The Case
If you or someone you know needs the legal advice of an experienced criminal defense attorney that specializes in having criminal and arrest records sealed, then fill out our contact form today for a free consultation. Our dedicated and passionate expungement lawyers can discuss all the details of your case under the privilege of the attorney-client relationship from the initial consultation to the county court final verdict.
Having a record sealed means a second chance at life. Whether you are looking the remove a juvenile record, seal a criminal conviction, or have an arrest record sealed, contact an expungement attorney not at Erase the Case
