Seal Your Record With A Tallahassee Expungement Attorney
Last updated on May 27, 2026
When you have a criminal record in Florida, even if it is only a minor offense, it can create enormous hardship in your life. There will come a time in your life when you will be legally obligated to inform people of your criminal record, possibly ruining your chances of:
- Getting a job
- Obtaining a loan
- Renting an apartment
- Receiving acceptance into a school
Expungement allows people to have their criminal records cleared, giving them back their freedom and allowing them to move on.
At Jansen & Davis, P.A., we want you to have your life back. We know what it takes to expunge your criminal record. In the state of Florida, there are laws in place that allow people with previous criminal convictions to wipe their records clean. The process of removing a conviction entirely from a person’s record is called expungement, or record sealing, and the sealing and expungement attorneys of Jansen & Davis, P.A., are here to assist you with this legal process.
Eligibility For Record Sealing And Expungements In Florida
If you have a criminal offense on your record, you may be eligible to file a petition for expungement if the following apply:
- You have completed your sentence
- You were convicted of a nonviolent offense
- You have spent a specific amount of time (depending upon the crime) in the community without any criminal convictions
Expungement of your criminal record will securely seal or destroy any information that may hinder your future endeavors, but can only be obtained under limited circumstances.
What Is The Difference Between Sealing And Expungement?
Sealing and expungement are legal processes that limit access to a criminal record in Florida. While both can help protect a person’s future, they work differently and offer different levels of privacy.
A sealed record still exists, but public access is restricted. Most employers, landlords and members of the public cannot view the record. However, certain government agencies and law enforcement entities may still have access. In some cases, a sealed record may become eligible for expungement after 10 years.
An expunged record is removed from most public and government databases, although the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) keeps one confidential copy. In most situations, a person whose record has been expunged may legally deny that the arrest or case ever occurred.
The available options depend on factors such as how the case ended and whether the person meets Florida eligibility requirements.
What To Expect During Sealing Or Expungement
The sealing or expungement process in Florida involves several steps. While every case, including juvenile crimes, is different, the process usually takes about four to six months from start to finish. The process generally includes the following steps:
- Obtain a certificate of eligibility from the FDLE: This requires an application, a certified case disposition, fingerprints and a $75 processing fee.
- File a petition with the circuit court: The petition is filed with the appropriate court, including the Second Judicial Circuit serving Leon County.
- State attorney review: The state attorney’s office reviews the request and may file a response or objection.
- Judge’s decision: A judge reviews the petition and issues an order approving or denying the request.
Even minor paperwork errors can slow the process. Jansen & Davis, P.A., helps clients in Tallahassee and Leon County understand the process and avoid unnecessary setbacks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are answers to common questions we often receive.
What is the difference between sealing and expunging a record in Florida?
Sealing restricts public access to a criminal record, but certain government agencies can still view it. On the other hand, expungement destroys the record, though the FDLE keeps one confidential copy.
Can I seal or expunge my record if my charges were dropped or dismissed?
Yes. Charges that were dismissed or nolle prossed may qualify for expungement in Florida. However, eligibility rules and one-time limitations apply. Speaking with our lawyer can help determine whether you qualify.
Get Help From A Tallahassee Expungement Attorney
At Jansen & Davis, P.A., we will help you determine your eligibility for expungement and can then file the necessary documents to seal your criminal record in Florida.
Contact our attorneys today to find out if you can expunge your criminal record. Call 850-641-8739 to schedule your free consultation.