Expungement and Sealing
Eligible records may be sealed or expunged under Florida law, helping reduce the impact of past arrests or cases on employment, housing, and background checks.
Eligibility Review
Hoffman Legal reviews the case outcome, prior record, charge type, and statutory requirements to determine whether sealing or expungement may be available.
Clear Guidance Through the Process
The process can involve certificates, petitions, affidavits, and court orders. The firm helps clients move through each step with clarity.
Discuss Your Case With Hoffman Legal
Get clear guidance before you speak with prosecutors, insurers, or opposing parties.
Free ConsultationFrequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions David hears from clients. This is general information, not legal advice — every case is different. For guidance on your specific situation, schedule a free consultation.
What's the difference between sealing and expunging?
A sealed record is hidden from public view but still exists and is accessible to certain agencies. An expunged record is physically destroyed by state agencies (a stub remains at FDLE). Eligibility rules differ — expungement is generally reserved for cases that were dismissed, dropped, or resulted in acquittal.
Who's eligible for sealing or expungement in Florida?
Generally, you must have no prior convictions, the case must not have resulted in an adjudication of guilt, and the offense must not be on the statutory list of disqualifying offenses. You typically get one lifetime seal or expunge under Florida law.
How long does the process take?
The FDLE certificate of eligibility alone usually takes 3–6 months. After that, the court petition and hearing add another 1–3 months. Plan on 6–9 months total from start to finish.
Will employers still see it?
Most private employers run standard background checks that will not show a sealed or expunged case. However, certain state agencies, law enforcement, and positions of trust with children, the elderly, or disabled can still access sealed records.
Can I deny the arrest ever happened?
Florida law allows you to lawfully deny or fail to acknowledge a sealed or expunged arrest in most circumstances, with specific exceptions for applications to the Florida Bar, certain licensing boards, and sensitive positions. The statute spells these out precisely.