A criminal record can continue to affect your life long after a case has ended. Even if charges were dismissed or you completed your case, a criminal record may appear during employment background checks, housing applications, professional licensing reviews, and educational opportunities. Fortunately, Florida law allows certain individuals to seal or expunge eligible criminal records, allowing them to move forward with greater confidence.
At the Cortes Legal Group, our attorneys understand how frustrating it can be when a past mistake continues to impact your future. Attorney Fernanda Cortes and Attorney Randolph McClean work closely with clients throughout Orlando and Central Florida to determine whether they qualify for record sealing or expungement and guide them through every step of the legal process. Whether you are seeking a new career, applying for college, or simply looking for peace of mind, an experienced expungement lawyer can help you understand your options.
Call (407) 800-3709 for a FREE ConsultationRecord sealing and expungement are legal procedures that limit public access to criminal records. While both options can provide significant benefits, they are not the same process and have different eligibility requirements.
An experienced expungement attorney can review your criminal history, explain which option may be available, and help ensure that all legal requirements are properly satisfied before filing your petition.
Every person's situation is unique, making individualized legal guidance especially important.
One of the most common questions clients ask is about the difference between sealed and expunged records.
A sealed record remains in existence but is generally inaccessible to the public. Certain government agencies and specific employers may still have limited access under Florida law.
An expunged record, on the other hand, is physically destroyed or removed from public access by the agencies that maintain it. However, certain government entities retain confidential records as required by law.
Because eligibility depends upon numerous factors, including the outcome of your case and your criminal history, we carefully review every client's circumstance before recommending the most appropriate course of action. We work closely with clients to ensure they fully understand both options before beginning the process.
Eligibility for record sealing or expungement depends on several factors established under Florida law. While every case must be evaluated individually, some common considerations include:
Not every criminal charge qualifies for sealing or expungement. Certain offenses are excluded by statute, making it essential to consult with an experienced expungement lawyer before beginning the process.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement seal and expunge process is an important part of obtaining relief under Florida law.
Before a court may consider sealing or expunging a criminal record, applicants generally must first obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). This process includes submitting fingerprints, completing the required application, paying applicable fees, and providing supporting documentation.
After receiving a Certificate of Eligibility, a petition is filed with the appropriate court requesting that the record be sealed or expunged.
Our attorneys help clients prepare accurate applications and carefully review supporting documentation to reduce unnecessary delays and ensure every filing is completed correctly.
Although Florida provides forms for record sealing and expungement, the legal process can become complicated when eligibility questions arise. Missing documents, incomplete applications, or filing errors may delay your case or result in denial.
Working with an experienced criminal defense lawyer provides valuable guidance throughout the process. Our attorneys carefully evaluate eligibility, prepare required documents, communicate with the appropriate agencies, and represent clients before the court whenever necessary.
Whether your goal is improving employment opportunities or simply putting the past behind you, legal guidance can help make the process smoother and less stressful.
Successfully sealing or expunging an eligible criminal record may provide numerous long-term benefits, including:
Although every situation is different, many individuals find that removing eligible records from public access allows them to move forward with greater confidence.
Attorney Fernanda Cortes and Attorney Randolph McClean understand the importance of protecting each client's future, and remain committed to providing compassionate guidance throughout every stage of the process.
Choosing the right legal representation can significantly impact your experience. At the Cortes Legal Group, our attorneys believe every client deserves honest advice, personalized attention, and responsive communication.
Attorney Fernanda Cortes and Attorney Randolph McClean work collaboratively to evaluate each client's eligibility and develop strategies tailored to their individual circumstances. Whether you are seeking to seal an eligible record or pursue expungement, our legal team is committed to protecting your rights and helping you pursue a brighter future.
As trusted criminal defense lawyers in Orlando, we understand how important a clean record can be for your career, education, family, and long-term goals. We take pride in providing compassionate representation while helping clients navigate every stage of Florida's sealing and expungement process.
Who is eligible to seal or expunge a criminal record in Florida?
Basic eligibility depends on the charge, the case outcome, and your prior record under Florida law. In general, you must first apply to the FDLE for a certificate of eligibility, and the FDLE reviews state, national, court, and driving-history records before issuing it. A prior adjudication of guilt, a disqualifying offense, or a previous court-ordered sealing or expungement can prevent approval.
How long does Florida expungement or record sealing take?
Florida expungement and Florida record sealing usually take months, not days, because the FDLE certificate of eligibility comes before the court petition. The FDLE states that current certificate processing is over 12 weeks once a complete application packet is received, and the court timeline varies by county. The record is not sealed or expunged until the judge signs the order and FDLE receives a certified copy.
Can I seal or expunge multiple Florida cases?
Usually, Florida allows one court-ordered sealing or expungement in a lifetime under the main sealing and expungement statutes. More than one arrest record may be included only if the court finds the arrests are directly related, and that decision is discretionary. If you have multiple cases, schedule a confidential consultation before choosing which record to pursue.
What will employers see after Florida record sealing or expungement?
For most private employment background checks, a sealed or expunged Florida record should no longer be publicly available through ordinary public criminal history access. Florida law still requires disclosure or allows access in specific situations, such as criminal justice employment, Florida Bar admission, certain child-care, education, health, elder-care, and licensing roles. This means the answer can change depending on the job, agency, or license involved.
What does Florida expungement remove, and what does it not remove?
In Florida, sealing makes the record confidential, while expungement generally requires criminal justice agencies to destroy or obliterate the record, with FDLE retaining limited information for legally allowed purposes. Expungement does not erase every private internet repost, news article, or third-party database copy that already exists. A practical follow-up checklist includes saving certified court documents, checking major background-check sources later, and requesting updates where outdated records still appear.
Do I need an expungement attorney in Florida, or can I do it myself?
Florida does not require you to hire an attorney to request sealing or expungement, but the paperwork, eligibility rules, and court filing requirements can be confusing. An expungement attorney Florida clients work with can help identify disqualifying issues, prepare the FDLE certificate of eligibility packet, and file the petition correctly in the county court. Consider speaking with a Florida expungement attorney, especially if your case involved multiple charges, probation, diversion, or an unclear disposition.
What costs and fees should I expect for a Florida sealing or expungement?
FDLE currently requires a nonrefundable $75 processing fee with the certificate of eligibility application, and other expenses may include certified dispositions, fingerprints, clerk filing fees, postage, and attorney fees. Typical Florida cost items include:
If you are ready to explore whether your criminal record qualifies for sealing or expungement, contact the Cortes Legal Group today. Call Attorney Fernanda Cortes and Attorney Randolph McClean at (407) 800-3709 to schedule your FREE consultation with an experienced legal team and learn how an expungement lawyer can help you move forward with confidence.
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