One mistake or a dismissed charge shouldn’t haunt your future. Florida law gives many people a true second chance through record sealing or expungement. At Panther Law, we’re passionate about helping you move forward—so a past arrest doesn’t close doors to jobs, housing, or education.
Sealing vs. Expungement—What’s the Difference?
- Sealing: Hides your criminal record from public view. Most employers, landlords, and the public can’t see it, but some agencies (like law enforcement) still have access.
- Expungement: Physically destroys the record (except for a confidential FDLE copy). For most agencies and employers, it’s as if the incident never happened.
Example:
A sealed record is like being locked away—hidden but still there. Expungement is like it never existed at all.
Are You Eligible for Sealing or Expungement in Florida?
- Only
one criminal case can be sealed or expunged in your lifetime (with some narrow exceptions).
- You generally qualify if:
- You were not convicted (no adjudication of guilt)
- The case was
dropped, dismissed, or you received adjudication withheld
- Some charges (serious felonies, sex offenses, violent crimes) are not eligible—even without conviction.
- If you were actually convicted (adjudicated guilty), you are usually
not eligible.
We will carefully review your record and advise on your options.
How the Process Works—Start to Finish
- Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)—we handle all paperwork and communications.
- File a Petition in Court—once certified, we submit your petition and supporting documents.
- Court Hearing: A judge reviews your case. If you qualify, the judge signs an order to seal or expunge your record.
- Records Updated: Agencies update their databases (may take several months).
Panther Law manages every step—no missed deadlines or technical errors to derail your clean slate.
Life After Clearing Your Record
- For most jobs and housing applications, you can legally say you have no criminal record.
- There are a few exceptions (law enforcement, Bar admission, work with vulnerable populations), but even then, access is very limited.
- We’ll explain exactly
when you must disclose and when you do not.
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FAQs: Record Sealing & Expungement in Florida
How can I clear my criminal record in Florida?
By qualifying for sealing or expungement—see above for eligibility. We check your record for free and guide you every step.
Am I eligible for expungement in FL?
If you have no convictions and your charge was dropped, dismissed, or you got adjudication withheld, you may qualify.
What’s the difference between sealing and expunging a record?
Sealing hides the record; expungement destroys it (with a confidential copy for FDLE only). Both keep it from most employers and the public.
Is it complicated to seal or expunge a record?
It can be, but Panther Law handles the process from start to finish—no stress, no mistakes.
Can you help me if I’m not sure I qualify?
Yes—our consult includes a free eligibility check.
Take the First Step to a Clean Record—Act Now
The sooner you start, the sooner you can unlock new opportunities. Panther Law offers a free, confidential consultation and eligibility check—don’t let the past hold you back any longer.
