Clearwater DUI Expungement Lawyer

Having a DUI arrest on your criminal record can impact your future in more ways than you may realize. Even if your DUI charges were dismissed or you were never found guilty, your criminal arrest record can still appear in a background check, affecting employment opportunities, housing applications, and your personal reputation.

At Hersem Law, our Clearwater DUI expungement lawyer helps clients take back control of their future. If you were arrested for DUI in Florida but not convicted, you may be eligible to have your record expunged or sealed—removing it from public view and giving you a fresh start. We understand how complex and intimidating the expungement process can seem. That’s why our expungement lawyers walk clients through the entire process with personalized guidance every step of the way.

Why Clearing a DUI Arrest Matters

Under Florida law, DUI arrests remain on your record even if the criminal charges were dropped or the case was dismissed. Employers, landlords, and even government agencies can access this arrest record, potentially limiting your opportunities.

If your case qualifies under certain circumstances, such as having no prior conviction or only a single criminal arrest record, you may be able to seal or expunge your criminal history. That means your arrest record can no longer be viewed by the general public—and you’re legally allowed to deny the arrest in most situations.

Who Qualifies for DUI Expungement in Florida?

You may qualify for DUI expungement in Florida if:

• You were arrested but never found guilty
  
• Your DUI case was dismissed, or you received a withhold of adjudication
  
• You have no prior conviction for any criminal offenses
  
• You have not had any prior sealing and expungement action granted in Florida
  
• Your case is not one of the certain offenses excluded by statute (e.g., aggravated stalking)
  

A Clearwater expungement lawyer from Hersem Law can review your criminal record to determine whether you meet the criteria. If you do, we can initiate the expungement or record sealing process and represent you in court through every step.

The DUI Expungement Process in Clearwater

The process of having your arrest record sealed or expunged in Clearwater involves several legal and administrative steps:

1. Determine Eligibility – Your expungement attorney will evaluate your case based on Florida law to determine if your DUI qualifies.
   
2. Apply Through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement – A Certificate of Eligibility is required from the Florida Department before filing with the court.
   
3. File with the Court – Once eligibility is confirmed, your attorney will submit a formal petition to the local court for record sealing or expungement.
   
4. Attend Hearings (if required) – In certain circumstances, the judge may request a hearing. Your lawyer will represent you.
   
5. Final Judgment and Record Update – If approved, the court will issue an order to seal or expunge your record. This can take up to six months, depending on the specifics of your case and the court’s calendar.
   

What’s the Difference Between Record Sealing and Expungement?

Though they are often used interchangeably, record sealing and expungement are distinct legal remedies under Florida law.

• Sealing: Your record is made confidential and inaccessible to most employers and the general public but still exists in the state’s records.
  
• Expungement: Your record is physically destroyed (except for one confidential copy held by the Florida Department), and it becomes as if the arrest never occurred.
  

Our Clearwater sealing and expungement lawyers will help determine the best path forward based on your eligibility, whether that means sealing a criminal record or pursuing a full expungement.

Common DUI Expungement Scenarios

Our law firm frequently helps clients with situations like:

• A DUI arrest that was later dismissed
  
• Individuals who plead guilty to a lesser charge but received a withhold of adjudication
  
• Criminal defense for cases that resulted in no formal conviction
  
• First-time offenders whose record is otherwise clean
  

Whatever your situation, the Hersem Law team will work to have your arrest expunged or sealed, protecting you from long-term consequences of a DUI arrest record.

Why Choose Hersem Law for DUI Expungement?

Our Clearwater expungement lawyers have handled hundreds of criminal defense and expungement cases across Pinellas County and beyond. With extensive knowledge of Florida law and local court procedures, we’re well-equipped to manage even the most complex cases.

Whether you’re dealing with outdated criminal history, unjust criminal charges, or simply want to move forward without your arrest hanging over you, we’re here to help. We understand the frustration of a permanent record and the obstacles it can create—and we know how to overcome them.

Learn more about Clearwater DUI Expungement Lawyer. Call Hersem Law at 813-251-7291 (Tampa) or 727-384-4357 (Clearwater) to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and recovery.

Clearwater DUI Expungement FAQs

Can I get a DUI expunged from my record in Clearwater?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. If your DUI arrest did not result in a conviction and your charges were dismissed or you received a withhold of adjudication, you may be eligible for expungement or record sealing.

What’s the difference between expungement and sealing in Florida?
Expungement destroys the criminal record, while sealing hides it from most background checks and public view. Both protect your privacy and limit access to your arrest record.

How long does the DUI expungement process take?
The expungement process in Florida can take up to six months, depending on how quickly the Florida Department and local courts process the paperwork and approve the petition.

What if I was arrested but not found guilty?
If you were not found guilty, your case may qualify for record sealing or expungement. Our expungement lawyers can help determine your eligibility and assist with the application process.

Do I need an attorney to expunge my record in Clearwater?
While it’s possible to file on your own, having an expungement attorney ensures all paperwork is accurate and deadlines are met. It also improves your chances of success if a court hearing is required.

Can expungement help me with employment opportunities?
Yes. Once your record is sealed or expunged, it will no longer appear in most background checks, which can help when applying for jobs, housing, and professional licenses.