Having a criminal record can significantly impact various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities, housing options, and even personal relationships. Fortunately, Florida law provides a process for individuals to clear their criminal records through expungement and sealing. At the Law Offices of Jose Nunez, Jr. we specialize in helping clients navigate the expungement and sealing process, offering professional legal assistance and guidance every step of the way. This webpage serves as a comprehensive resource to educate individuals about the expungement and sealing services we provide and the benefits of pursuing these legal remedies.
What is Expungement and Sealing?
Expungement and sealing are legal processes that enable eligible individuals to limit public access to their criminal records, providing them with a fresh start and the opportunity to move forward without the burden of past mistakes. While both processes offer similar outcomes, there are slight differences between them.
- Expungement
Expungement entails the complete removal and destruction of your criminal record from public view. Once your record is expunged, it is as if the arrest or conviction never occurred. Expunged records are inaccessible to most individuals, including employers and landlords. However, certain entities, such as law enforcement agencies and certain government organizations, may still have access to expunged records for specific purposes.
- Sealing
Sealing, on the other hand, involves restricting public access to your criminal record. When your record is sealed, it is not destroyed but rather placed under heightened confidentiality. Sealed records remain accessible to a select few, such as criminal justice agencies, and require a court order to be opened. In most cases, sealed records are not accessible to the general public, including employers and landlords.
Eligibility for Expungement and Sealing in Florida
The eligibility criteria for expungement and sealing in Florida are complex and depend on various factors, including the type of offense, the disposition of the case, and an individual’s prior criminal history. Generally, the following conditions must be met to qualify for expungement or sealing:
- The case resulted in dismissal, acquittal, or a withheld adjudication of guilt.
- A specific waiting period has passed since the resolution of the case (e.g., one year for a misdemeanor, three years for a felony).
- There are no subsequent convictions on the individual’s record.
- The offense is not listed as an ineligible offense (e.g., serious violent crimes, sexual offenses).
Our Expungement and Sealing Services
At the Law Offices of Jose Nunez, we understand the importance of having a clean criminal record and the positive impact it can have on your life. Our team specializes in expungement and sealing cases in Florida and provides personalized legal representation to each client. Our services include:
- Eligibility Assessment: We will review your case details, criminal history, and eligibility criteria to determine if you qualify for expungement or sealing.
- Legal Guidance: Our attorneys will guide you through the entire expungement or sealing process, ensuring that you understand your rights, the steps involved, and the potential outcomes.
- Document Preparation: We will assist you in gathering the necessary documentation, including court records, police reports, and other required forms, to initiate the expungement or sealing petition.
- Petition Filing: Our team will prepare and file the petition on your behalf, ensuring that all required documents are accurately completed and submitted within the designated timelines.
- Representation in Court: At the Court hearing we will represent you and advocate for your rights and the expungement or sealing of your criminal record.
Take the First Step Towards a Fresh Start
At the Law Offices of Jose Nunez, we recognize the importance of a clean criminal record in securing a better future. Our team of dedicated attorneys is ready to assist you in the expungement and sealing process in Florida. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a fresh start and a brighter future. Let us help you clear your criminal record and regain control of your life.