Tampa Expungement Lawyer
Getting your record sealed or expunged can help you see a better future. A Tampa expungement attorney can help.
If you’ve been charged charged with a felony or misdemeanor in Tampa, you already know that an incident like this can seriously impact your ability to live your life the way you want to. Fortunately, in Florida, you may not have to live with that record forever.
Speak with a Tampa expungement lawyer at Hersem Law for the help you need getting your criminal record sealed or expunged. At Hersem Law, we understand how much an expungement can improve your life, and we’re all about improving our clients’ lives.
Eligibility for Expungement in Florida
Expungement can help you overcome some past arrests and convictions and start fresh. Unfortunately, criminal records can be searched, and that can haunt you later. The good news is that, in Florida, some incidents on your record can be sealed or expunged, meaning that these records won’t be readily available to the public.
Keep in mind that certain crimes, like the following, may not be eligible for sealing or expungement in Florida:
- Sexual misconduct
- Kidnapping
- Fraud
- Any violation of the Florida Communications Fraud Act
- Child pornography
Often, nonviolent crimes may be sealed or expunged, especially juvenile cases. However, the complete rules for which arrests and convictions can be expunged are complex, which is why it can be so helpful to contact an attorney at our firm.
If you’re concerned that you may not be eligible for expungement, talk to your Tampa lawyer before you choose not to petition. We can give you specific answers about your individual case.
How Long Does Expungement Take in Florida?
While it used to take an average of 5 – 7 months, the average time to complete a Florida record sealing or expungement now takes closer to a year. This is because the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) currently has a 6 – 7 month backlog of applications. The amount of time for each record will depend on various factors, and our firm can give you a more specific idea of the timeline for your Florida expungement case.
Florida’s Record Sealing and Expungement Process
Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible for sealing or expungement, you’re ready to take the next steps toward a better future. Your first step will be to apply for a certificate of eligibility for expunction.
For an expungement, you’ll need to show the FDLE that your case was dismissed, you were ultimately not charged, or that you were acquitted or received a “not guilty” verdict. You’ll also need to show that your case didn’t involve one of the crimes that are ineligible for expunction.
For a sealing of your record, you’ll need to show the FDLE that your case resulted in a “Withhold of Adjudication” or, in plain terms, that you weren’t convicted of the offense you are seeking to seal.
In either case, a prior “Adjudication” (conviction) for any other offense in this state will make you ineligible to seal or expunge your current record, and your application will be denied. However, we are sometimes able to go back and undo a prior conviction to help you with this process.
Get Your Florida Record Expunged with a Lawyer’s Help
Unfortunately, getting your record expunged or sealed may not be an easy process. Your petition may be denied, or you may have trouble getting the detailed answers you need. You typically only get one opportunity in your entire lifetime to do this process, so you want to make sure you do it correctly or you may miss your chance. Fortunately, a lawyer from Hersem Law can help.
We understand how difficult a criminal record can make your life, and we’re here to help. If you’re struggling to overcome your criminal record, reach out for a free strategy session with our criminal defense lawyer, where we’ll discuss your case and help you plan to fight back.
Ready to get started? Your Tampa expungement lawyer is ready to help. Begin by calling 813-251-7291 or by filling out the online form below.
