Fort Lauderdale Record Sealing and Expungement

Sealing and Expungement in Florida

Arrests, charges, and convictions can remain a matter of public record for years after the fact. These records are accessible to law enforcement and the public for years, affecting future opportunities.

The Hoffman Firm believes that everyone deserves a second chance which is why our Ft. Lauderdale legal team provides sealing and expungement services. Our firm is committed to providing clients with the guidance they need to get a fresh start.

Call The Hoffman Firm at 954-524-4474 to find out how we can help you reclaim your future.

What Is Record Sealing?

When a criminal record is sealed, it is removed from public access and is only available to law enforcement. Essentially, the record remains in the court system and can still be accessed by clerks, prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement, but it cannot be viewed through a background check or Google search.

However, a sealed record could be used to justify a repeat offense. For example, a person has their DUI sealed. Five years later, they are pulled over and charged with another DUI. The prosecutor may use the previously sealed DUI as evidence of the defendant’s potential for reoffending.

Expunction in Florida

Expungement also removes a crime from public view, but it “deletes” the crime entirely. In other words, expunction makes it as though the crime never happened. Not only is the crime inaccessible to the public, but the court system also cannot cite an expunged offense in court.

Benefits of Record Sealing and Expungement

Individuals who have their criminal record expunged or sealed can legally deny having committed said crime to employers and law enforcement. For example, may employers include a question like: “have you ever committed a felony offense?” – you are allowed to say no without repercussions if your record has been sealed or expunged.

Additionally, should a person be arrested again, they may deny having ever committed the crime or refuse to acknowledge a criminal past.

When a Criminal Record Cannot Be Sealed or Expunged

There are few exceptions to deniability privileges. Anyone applying for the following cannot deny their expunged or sealed criminal record:

• Candidates for positions in the criminal justice system
• Applicants for education positions
• Candidates for the Florida Bar
• Potential guardians
• Those seeking to purchase a firearm
• Anyone seeking employment as a caretaker for the elderly or children

Many hospitals and medical practices also require job candidates to be honest about their criminal record regardless of whether it was sealed or expunged.

Some crimes cannot be expunged based on the amount of harm caused or the form of aggression. For example, sexual assault and battery of a minor cannot be sealed.

Other crimes that are un-expungable include:

• Carjacking
• Stalking
• Domestic violence
• Child abuse
• Arson
• Illegal use of explosives
• Terrorism
• Conspiracy to commit any of the crimes listed above

Record sealing and expungement are better suited for those who committed minor crimes or were involved in an offense not listed above. While expunging a felony is possible, it can be challenging to do without the help of an experienced attorney.

Sealing or Expunging Your Record in Fort Lauderdale

Removing your criminal record from public view or deleting it entirely can give you freedom and peace of mind, but it is not easy. You must show the court that you deserve a second chance.

With over two decades of experience, The Hoffman Firm has experience handling countless sealing and expungement cases. Our attorney is well versed in Florida law related to record sealing and can provide legal guidance and support during the sealing process. You can reclaim your future with The Hoffman Firm.

Don’t wait! Schedule your consultation today.