Sealing VS expunging your Florida criminal record: Attorney

What is the difference between sealing and expunging my Florida criminal record? Fort Lauderdale Attorney Explains

Sealing and Expunging criminal records in Florida is similar in that both Sealing and Expunging Florida criminal records limits who is able to see them. For the person who is the subject of the records, the effect of sealing or expunging is very similar as both sealing and expunging make it so that the criminal record information is not available to the public, and is not searchable in public records.

What is sealing a criminal record in Florida?

When a Florida Criminal record is sealed, it means the public will not be able to see it and will not have access to it through the government databases. That means that most employers will not have access to the information. While the record isn’t readily available to the public, it still exists.

If a criminal record is sealed in Florida, then it is confidential and exempt from public record. The only people who can see it: the subject of the record, the person’s attorney, a victim, or a criminal justice agency, and even certain licensing agencies. If you’re the subject of a sealed criminal record, you can lawfully deny the arrest or charges in most situations. A few exceptions include if you’re a defendant for a subsequent crime, are seeking employment with a criminal justice agency or even when purchasing a gun from a licensed dealer.

Sealed records can be accessed or re-opened, however, if a court order is granted. Most city, county, state and federal government agencies – including police and military – have a legal right to access criminal history records even if they’re sealed.

What is expunging a criminal record in Florida?

An expungement, on the other hand, clears the conviction or arrest off of the person’s record (while a sealed criminal record gives the appearance that the conviction or arrest was cleared). This means the Florida Criminal Record is physically destroyed or deleted.

When a record is expunged, agencies that would have access to a sealed record will be able to know that criminal information has been expunged from the record, and would only have access to the record through a court order – but otherwise would only be able to see that there was expunged information.

CONCLUSION: Sealing & Expunging a criminal record are similar but unique in Florida

If you’re in the South Florida Tri-County Area and you think you may qualify for either sealing or expunging your Florida Criminal record, give our office a call to see if you qualify and if we can help you get your Florida Criminal record expunged.

Give us a call today to get help now by scheduling a Free Consultation:

Fort Lauderdale: (754) 206-6200
Sunrise: (754) 999-2499
Boca Raton: (561) 880-8181

kevin tabron

00:07 08 Sep 22

In one of the most stressful times in my life, Rossen Law Firm was there for me. Leaving no stone unturned they provided patience and knowledge in every detail of my case. I’m very thankful and proud of this law firm family and especially of my lawyer, Scott Simmons for guiding, defending and helping me in every way possible. He and this law firm family come highly recommended from personal experience!!!

Jason Higley

15:24 26 Aug 22

I had an unfortunate situation with a family member that lead to my arrest and being charged with DV Battery. This was the first time I had ever been arrested so I was very nervous and afraid of what was going to happen to me. After talking with Adam I decided to retain him and let me tell you this was the BEST decision I could have ever made. Adam made me feel so comfortable and confident that everything will turn out the best in my favor. He is professional, ethical and supportive. He was always available too answer any questions or concerns.Not to mention, his team at the office is awesome they are so friendly and welcoming. Anytime I had a question when I called the office they were able to guide me in the rightdirection. They always were in contact with me with any information or updates regarding my case. Adams team is GREAT!Adam delivered, my case was DISMISSED. So if you want an attorney the is gonna fight for you and get the job done retain the BEST there is Adam Rossen!!!

Felix I H

13:27 28 Jul 22

Adam Rossen and the team at Rossen Law took great care in handling my case. They are very professional, and get the job done. I was particular relieved to see just how much empathy they showed with me, and how effortless it was to be their client.I literally visited them twice. My initial consultation, and then to pickup the final docs. I have nothing but great things to say about these folks, and I would highly recommend them to anyone. Thanks Guys.

Terry Christopher

12:32 09 May 22

I had an amazing experience with The Rossen Law Firm. The staff were very professional. Attorney Susan Lawson went above and beyond working on my case. We were thoroughly prepared for trial. Mrs. Lawson reviewed hours of body and dash camera footage multiple times and aggressively performed depositions on witnesses and law enforcement.The final outcome for me was the state dropped my case, due to the great work Susan and the Rossen team performed. I didn’t even need to go to trial.This law firm does not play around. They pay attention to detail and they FIGHT FOR YOU!Thank you Adam, team, and a special thank you to Susan for your amazing work! I really appreciate you.

Ketiana Province

20:27 23 Mar 22

My experience with Rossen Law Firm was excellent. From the consultation to the end.. My attorney Susan Lawson gave my son's case all the time and attention that was needed to be successful in court. She was confident during all the court proceedings. My favorite part was when she said we are family, never once my son and I were treated other then that. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received through Rossen Law Firm.