Record Sealing and Expungement Lawyer in Orlando
Proven advocate pursues legal remedies to secure your future
A criminal record can follow you long after a case is closed, even if you were never convicted. If only you could hide those records from prying eyes. Fortunately, record sealing and expungement offer eligible individuals in Florida a way to limit or eliminate public access to certain records that might put them in a bad light. At The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A., our Orlando criminal defense lawyer can help determine whether you qualify for such relief. If so, we guide you through the process from start to finish.
What is the difference between record sealing and expungement?
Record sealing and expungement are not identical solutions. Sealing a criminal record hides it from public view. The record still exists, and it can be accessed by certain government agencies, including law enforcement, courts and specific licensing or regulatory bodies. Private employers, landlords and the general public will not be able to see a sealed record.
Expungement goes a step further. When a record is expunged, most agencies in possession destroy the physical copy of records detailing your contact with the criminal justice system. While the Florida Department of Law Enforcement retains a confidential copy, the record is otherwise treated as though it never existed. Only under limited circumstances can law enforcement and criminal justice agencies access expunged records.
In many cases, individuals with an expunged record can lawfully deny or fail to acknowledge an arrest, except when applying for certain government positions, professional licenses or employment with criminal justice agencies.
Common reasons people seek sealing or expungement
People pursue record sealing or expungement for various practical and personal reasons. A visible criminal record can interfere with employment opportunities, since background checks often reveal arrests that never resulted in a conviction. Housing applications, professional licensing and educational opportunities might also be affected.
Sealing or expunging a record can provide peace of mind and a genuine fresh start. For first-time offenders, individuals whose charges were dropped, or those who successfully completed diversion programs, these remedies remove barriers that unfairly persist long after a case is resolved.
Who is eligible for sealing or expungement?
Under Florida law, several factors determine eligibility for sealing and expungement. Generally, a person must not have been convicted of the charge they wish to seal or expunge. Certain serious offenses are ineligible, and individuals who have already sealed or expunged another record may be barred.
Typically, people pursue record sealing first. Once a record has been sealed for a required period, that person can apply for expungement. Obtaining reliable legal guidance is vitally important, because eligibility rules are strict, and even small mistakes can lead to denial.
The process to request sealing or expungement
You begin the process by obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This requires submitting fingerprints, an application, and supporting documentation. FDLE reviews the request to confirm your statutory eligibility.
Once FDLE issues your certificate, you file a petition with the court that handled your original case. A judge has discretion to grant or deny the request, even if you meet eligibility requirements. Some cases involve waiting periods, particularly when seeking expungement after sealing.
Because the process involves multiple agencies, strict deadlines and detailed filings, you should consult an experienced criminal law attorney if you’re considering one of these processes.
How an Orlando criminal defense attorney can help
Record sealing and expungement are governed by strict, technical rules. Mr. Yates can evaluate your eligibility, prepare and file all required documents, address objections and advocate on your behalf before the authorities. There’s no reason for your past to limit your future when skilled legal counsel can help you obtain the relief you deserve.
Contact a reputable Orlando attorney to discuss record sealing and expungement
The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. in Orlando helps eligible clients seal and expunge criminal records. Call us at 407-608-7777 or contact us online to schedule a consultation regarding your eligibility for these types of relief.
