Expungement & Record Sealing in Florida
If you’ve ever been arrested in Florida, that record doesn’t just go away — even if the charges were dismissed or you were never convicted. Employers, landlords, licensing boards, and the general public can access your arrest history, potentially impacting your job prospects, education, and reputation.
At The Ladan Law Firm, we help clients throughout Orlando and Central Florida seal or expunge eligible criminal records so they can move forward without the weight of a past mistake.
What is an Expungement?
An expungement is the legal process of completely removing a criminal record from public view. Once expunged, the arrest or charge is legally considered to have never occurred (with limited exceptions for background checks by certain government agencies).
However, expungement in Florida is not automatic — it requires a formal petition, eligibility screening, and court approval.
Related Content: When can you not get an expungement?
Record Sealing vs. Expungement
If you don’t qualify for expungement, you may still be eligible for record sealing, which restricts public access but does not erase the record entirely. Both offer significant privacy protections, and both require meeting specific legal criteria.
Even dismissed charges or past arrests can show up on background checks, affecting jobs, housing, and opportunities. A confidential consultation can help you explore your options and clear your record where possible.
Do I Qualify for Expungement?
To qualify for expungement in Florida, all of the following must be true:
- You were not convicted of the charge.
- The case was dismissed, dropped, or nolle prosequi.
- You have no prior criminal convictions.
- The charge is one of the eligible offenses under Florida law.
- You have not previously expunged or sealed another criminal case.
It’s essential to consult an attorney to review your history and determine your eligibility. The expungement process typically takes six to seven months to complete.
What If I Was Convicted?
Unfortunately, if you have any criminal conviction — misdemeanor or felony — you are not eligible for expungement in Florida. Expungement requires a clean outcome (dismissal or acquittal) and a conviction disqualifies you.
The only possible exception is a gubernatorial pardon, which is extremely rare and difficult to obtain.
Juvenile Expungements in Florida
Juvenile records are not automatically erased when you turn 18. In fact:
- The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) retains juvenile records until at least five years after your 18th birthday.
- If you commit another offense before age 23, the record may become permanent.
- Some juvenile cases may be administratively expunged, especially if you completed a diversion program.
Evaluating your options early is smart to prevent a juvenile record from following you into adulthood.
Why Choose The Ladan Law Firm?
With over two decades of experience in criminal defense, The Ladan Law Firm provides personalized and strategic representation for individuals facing DUI charges in Orlando and throughout Central Florida. Our team understands the complexities of Florida’s DUI laws and is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.