Orlando Criminal Expungement Lawyer
A criminal record can follow you for years, affecting employment opportunities, housing applications, and professional licenses. Whether you were arrested but never convicted or completed a diversion program, Florida law may allow you to clear your record through expungement or sealing.
The Wiseman Law Firm helps clients throughout Orlando and Central Florida navigate the complex expungement process. Our criminal defense attorneys understand the eligibility requirements, court procedures, and documentation needed to successfully petition for record expungement or sealing. We guide you through each step, from obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility to filing the final court petition.
What Is Criminal Record Expungement?
Criminal record expungement is the legal process of removing arrest records from public view in Florida. When a record is expunged, it is physically destroyed by law enforcement agencies, except for one confidential copy retained by FDLE. Unlike sealing, which restricts access, expungement provides the highest level of record clearance available under Florida law.
Sealing and Expunging Criminal Records in Orlando
The expungement process in Orange County requires careful attention to procedural requirements and deadlines. Understanding criminal defense can help you navigate this complex area of law. Each step must be completed correctly to avoid delays or denial of your petition.
Steps in the Florida Expungement Process
- Certificate of Eligibility: Initially, you must apply to FDLE for this certificate, providing personal information and details of the charges. The application must be notarized.
- Fingerprinting: Obtain fingerprints from law enforcement on an FDLE-approved card.
- Certified Dispositions: Acquire certified dispositions from the clerk of court for each charge.
- State Attorney Review: The State Attorney must approve the application for expungements before FDLE processes it.
- File Petition with the Court: Once the Certificate of Eligibility is received, file a Petition to Seal or Expunge with the court where the charges were made.
- Court Decision: The court reviews the petition and makes a decision whether to seal or expunge the record.
- Record Update: If approved, the clerk of court and FDLE update the record accordingly.
Eligibility Requirements for Record Sealing
Not everyone qualifies for expungement or record sealing in Florida. To be eligible for record sealing, you must meet specific statutory requirements under Florida law.
- The individual must not have any previous convictions for criminal offenses or similar ordinance violations. This includes not having any past juvenile adjudications for criminal acts as specified in Florida Statutes Section 943.051(3)(b).
- There should be no record of a conviction or juvenile delinquency in the case that the individual seeks to seal.
- The applicant must not have previously sealed or expunged a criminal history record under Florida law.
- There should be no ongoing petitions for sealing or expungement in any court.
- The offense for which the individual pled must not be one of the offenses that disqualify an applicant from sealing their record.
- The offense in question should not be listed under the Related Offenses Exclusion.
- If the individual was sentenced to probation or community control for the offense, this must be fully served and all forms of court supervision completed.
Meeting these requirements is just the first step in clearing your criminal record. Our Orlando expungement attorneys review your criminal history to determine eligibility and identify the best path forward.
Benefits of Expungement and Record Sealing
Successfully expunging or sealing your criminal record can significantly impact your future opportunities and quality of life. Many clients seeking felony defense or those dealing with misdemeanor charges often inquire about future expungement options.
- Concealing one’s criminal history from the public eye.
- Ensuring employers do not uncover past criminal incidents.
- Preventing colleges and universities from discovering any criminal incidents.
- Eliminating the need for individuals to reveal arrests or charges to employers and others.
- Ensuring that criminal records do not appear in background checks.
- Bypassing company policies that may hinder career progression due to criminal backgrounds.
- Safeguarding an individual’s reputation within their community.
- Providing peace of mind
These benefits make expungement a valuable investment in your future. The ability to legally deny the existence of a criminal record in most circumstances provides a fresh start for eligible individuals.
How Much Does Expungement Cost in Florida?
The cost of expungement in Florida includes state filing fees, fingerprinting costs, and attorney fees, typically ranging from $1,500 to $3,500 total. FDLE charges $75 for the Certificate of Eligibility application, while court filing fees vary by county. In Orange County, additional costs may include obtaining certified dispositions and notarization services. Attorney fees depend on case complexity and whether complications arise during the petition process.
Common Offenses Eligible for Expungement
Certain criminal charges in Central Florida are commonly eligible for expungement if you meet the statutory requirements. These often include first-time offenses where adjudication was withheld or charges were dropped. Those facing drug crime charges or theft crime accusations frequently seek information about future expungement eligibility.
Withhold of adjudication cases represent the most straightforward path to record sealing in Florida. If the court withheld adjudication on your case, you were not formally convicted and may qualify for record sealing. Similarly, cases dismissed by prosecutors or where you completed a pretrial diversion program may be eligible for complete expungement. Our attorneys evaluate your specific circumstances to determine whether expungement or sealing provides the best outcome.
Speak With the Orlando Expungement Lawyer at The Wiseman Law Firm
Clearing your criminal record requires navigating complex eligibility requirements and court procedures. The Wiseman Law Firm brings extensive experience helping Orlando residents successfully petition for expungement and record sealing. Attorney Simon Wiseman has practiced criminal defense for over two decades, giving him deep insight into the expungement process and potential challenges that may arise.
We handle all aspects of your expungement petition, from initial eligibility assessment through final court approval. Our team obtains necessary documentation, prepares required affidavits, and represents you at any required hearings. Don’t let a criminal record continue limiting your opportunities. Contact us online to discuss your expungement options today.
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