One mistake can have a devastating effect on your family, employment prospects and financial security. Thanks to the Internet, an arrest or conviction can haunt you for the rest of your life. Anyone can easily retrieve information about your criminal record, and you have no opportunity to explain. The dedicated criminal defense representatives at Largey Law are former public defenders who believe that everyone deserves a second chance. Expunging or sealing your record can help you get a fresh start. Therefore, when you take your case to a Mount Dora expungements lawyer, you boost your chances of obtaining the second chance you deserve.
Sealing Versus Expunging a Criminal Record
Arrests and adjudications are public record. By sealing your criminal record, the public no longer has access to it. However, some government and law enforcement agencies are permitted to access sealed records.
Meanwhile, the pubic does not have access to an expunged record, and agencies that have access to sealed records cannot open an expunged record without a court order. The agency would receive a statement to the effect of “Criminal information has been expunged from this record,” and nothing more. There are more nuances to understand, and a knowledgeable Mount Dora expungements attorney could offer guidance with this aspect.
Who is Eligible for Expunging or Sealing a Criminal Record?
To have your criminal record sealed or expunged, you must meet the criteria established by Florida statutes, including:
- You have not been adjudicated guilty or convicted as an adult of a crime.
- You previously have not had a record sealed or expunged, unless you fall under certain exceptions listed in the law.
- The arrest and adjudication for which you are requesting sealing or expungement is a qualifying offense.
- You are not currently a criminal defendant, a candidate for criminal justice agency employment or an applicant to the Florida Bar.
Our dedicated expungement lawyers in Mount Dora could candidly advise you about whether you qualify for this option and what to expect from the process.
Make a Fresh Start with the Help of a Mount Dora Expungements Attorney
Put your arrest or conviction behind you. Call Largey Law or contact the firm online to schedule your free consultation at our offices. Our Mount Dora expungements lawyers work hard to serve clients all across the state, which makes our firm one of the best options for your case. Get started on this new chapter today.
