Sealing and Expunging Criminal Records in Pinellas County

A past arrest in Pinellas County or criminal charge can continue to affect your life long after your case is closed. Even without a conviction, a public record can limit your employment, housing, education, and other opportunities.

Fortunately, Florida law allows certain criminal records to be sealed or expunged, effectively giving you a fresh start. Our experienced Seminole seal and expungement lawyer helps clients in these cases and can walk you through your options while taking the actions needed to protect your future.

Who Qualifies for Record Sealing or Expungement in Florida?

A momentary mistake or lapse in judgment shouldn’t follow you for the rest of your life. Whether arrested for simple drug possession, shoplifting, DUI, or more serious charges, the criminal record that results can have major impacts on your rights and financial security.

The Florida Statutes set strict criteria for sealing or expunging a criminal record. The two processes are similar but not identical: sealing a record limits who can view it, while expunging a record removes it from public and many official databases. Eligibility for record sealing and expungement in Pinellas County depends on your charges and the outcome of your case. You may qualify if:

• You have no prior convictions for any criminal offense in Florida;
• There was no adjudication of guilt, meaning you were not found guilty or convicted of the offense;
• You have not previously sealed or expunged another record;
• Your charge is eligible (certain crimes, such as domestic violence and sexual battery, are excluded);
• Your case resulted in dismissal, acquittal, diversion or was resolved in another way that meets statutory requirements.

Certificates of Eligibility, which you must obtain before filing with the court, are issued through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). Each case is different, so it’s essential to review your specific circumstances with a qualified lawyer.

Steps to Clear Your Criminal Record in Pinellas County

If you meet the criteria, the legal process for sealing and expunging criminal records in Florida involves several detailed steps, which include:

• Requesting a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE;
• Filing a petition to seal or expunge with the appropriate Pinellas County court;
• Notifying all relevant parties, including the State Attorney’s Office and arresting agencies;
• Submitting supporting documents, such as certified case records;
• Attending a court hearing, if required, and obtaining a judge’s order.

In most situations, once your criminal record is sealed or expunged, you have the legal right to deny the existence of the record, giving you a second chance in job interviews and other important areas of life.

To Clear Your Record, Contact Our Experienced Seminole Seal and Expungement Lawyer

Your past doesn’t have to define your future. If an arrest or criminal charges in Pinellas County continue to haunt your background checks, it’s time to consider your options for sealing or expungement.

The Reep Law Firm provides the professional legal representation you need to regain control of your record and reputation. Contact our experienced Seminole seal and expungement lawyer today and request a consultation.

Sources:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0900-0999/0943/Sections/0943.0585.html

fdle.state.fl.us/Seal-and-Expunge-Process/Frequently-Asked-Questions#:~:text=You%20can%20obtain%20an%20application,mailed%20or%20emailed%20to%20you.