St. Petersburg Expungement Services Attorney
A past mistake should not hold you back forever. If you were arrested in St. Petersburg but never convicted, or if your case qualifies under Florida law, you may be able to have your criminal record sealed or expunged. Clearing your record can remove barriers to jobs, housing, education, and peace of mind. This process is not automatic — but with the right guidance, it is within reach.
Who Qualifies for Expungement or Sealing in Florida
Florida law allows certain individuals to apply to have their criminal history sealed or expunged. You may qualify if:
- You were arrested but never charged
- Your charges were dropped or dismissed
- You were found not guilty
- You completed a diversion program
In most circumstances, you cannot have more than one record sealed or expunged in your lifetime, and you cannot have been adjudicated guilty of any criminal offense. Juvenile crimes and some adult cases may qualify, depending on the outcome and the nature of the charge.
How Expungement Affects Your Criminal Record
Once your record is expunged, it is removed from public view and law enforcement access is limited. In most job applications, housing screenings, or background checks, you can legally deny that the arrest or charge occurred. This can make a major difference when applying for work, renewing a professional certificate, or rebuilding your life after a difficult chapter.
A sealed record is slightly different. The record still exists but is not accessible to the general public. Only certain criminal justice agencies can see it, and it cannot be used against you in most civil or employment situations. Both options offer relief from the long shadow of a criminal history.
The Expungement Process in St. Petersburg
The process begins with an application to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Once eligibility is confirmed, you will receive a certificate that allows you to petition the court. The court must issue a formal order to seal or expunge your record. This process can take several months and involves detailed paperwork and strict requirements.
Many people are denied because of simple errors in their application or because they do not meet the strict guidelines under Florida statute. A lawyer can help you avoid delays and improve your chances of success by guiding you through the entire process from start to finish.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Expungement or Sealing
Expungement is more than just paperwork. It is your opportunity to move forward without your past following you. An attorney can explain your eligibility, gather the required documentation, and file your petition with the court. They can also communicate with the state attorney and criminal justice agencies involved in your case.
If you are unsure whether your case qualifies, a legal professional can review your criminal history and guide you through the options. If your petition is challenged or denied, they can help you appeal or explore other alternatives to clear your record.
Free Consultation With a St. Petersburg Expungement Lawyer at Hersem Law
If you are ready to take the next step toward a clean slate, Hersem Law offers a free consultation to discuss your eligibility for expungement or sealing. Our St. Petersburg expungement lawyer will guide you through the legal process and help you move forward with confidence.
FAQs About Expungement in St. Petersburg
What is the difference between sealing and expunging a record?
Sealing hides the record from public view but keeps it accessible to certain agencies. Expunging destroys the record except for a confidential copy held by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Can I expunge a conviction?
No. You must not have been adjudicated guilty of any criminal offense. Expungement is available only for arrests or charges that were dismissed or resolved without conviction.
How long does the expungement process take in Florida?
The entire process can take several months, depending on the court’s schedule and how quickly paperwork is submitted and approved.
Will expunging my record remove it from background checks?
Yes. Most private background checks will not show sealed or expunged records, and you can legally deny that the incident occurred in most cases.
Can I apply if I had more than one arrest?
No. Florida law allows only one criminal history record to be sealed or expunged in most circumstances, unless special exceptions apply.
