Last updated November 2025
If you’ve ever been arrested in Florida, your record may still be visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards — even if charges were dropped. Fortunately, Florida law allows eligible people to seal or expunge records. But which option is right for you?
🔎 What’s the Difference?
Sealing: The record is hidden from public view but still exists. Certain government agencies can access it.
Expungement: The record is destroyed (with narrow exceptions). This offers broader protection but has stricter eligibility rules.
📜 Florida Law on Sealing and Expungement
Both processes are governed by Florida Statute §943.0585 (expungement) and §943.059 (sealing).
⚖️ Eligibility Rules
Not eligible if you’ve ever had a record sealed or expunged before.
Certain offenses (like domestic violence) cannot be sealed or expunged.
If charges were dropped or dismissed, expungement may be possible.
If adjudication was withheld, sealing may be possible.
🛡️ Why This Matters
Even an arrest without conviction can block jobs, housing, and professional licenses. Sealing or expunging gives you a fresh start and prevents most employers from accessing your record.
📣 How Michael White, P.A. Helps
As a Fort Lauderdale criminal defense attorney, I’ve guided many clients through the sealing/expungement process, ensuring:
Accurate petitions to FDLE and the court
Avoidance of common errors that cause delays
Advocacy at hearings, if necessary
👉 Ready for a fresh start? Contact us today for a free consultation.
❓ FAQs
1) What’s the main difference between sealing and expunging?
Sealing hides the record; expungement destroys it (with limited exceptions).
2) Who can still see a sealed record?
Government agencies like law enforcement and licensing boards.
3) Can domestic violence charges be sealed or expunged?
No. Florida law excludes certain offenses.
4) Do I qualify if adjudication was withheld?
Possibly. Many withheld adjudications are eligible for sealing.
5) How long does the process take?
6–12 months on average, depending on FDLE and court timelines.