💼 A DUI Conviction Can Haunt You — But a Reckless Plea May Keep the Door Open
In Florida, most DUI convictions are not eligible for sealing or expungement. Once it’s on your record, it’s there for good — visible to employers, licensing boards, landlords, and background check databases.
But here’s the good news:
➡️ If your attorney can negotiate a “wet reckless” plea, you may be able to avoid a conviction and later seal your record — protecting your future.
At Michael White, P.A., we help clients avoid permanent damage by fighting for plea deals that leave sealing and expungement on the table.
⚖️ What Is a Wet Reckless in Florida?
A “wet reckless” is shorthand for reckless driving involving alcohol or drugs. It’s a lesser offense than DUI, and Florida prosecutors may offer it as a plea deal when:
Your BAC is close to .08
There was no crash or injury
There are issues with the stop, the test, or the officer’s report
You have no prior DUI convictions
✅ While still serious, a wet reckless doesn’t carry the same long-term consequences as a DUI — and most importantly, it can leave you eligible to seal the case.
🛑 You Can’t Seal a DUI — But You May Be Able to Seal a Wet Reckless
Under Florida law:
DUI convictions cannot be sealed or expunged — ever
Reckless driving may be sealed if adjudication is withheld
This means:
If you plead to a wet reckless
AND the judge withholds adjudication
AND you meet the other eligibility criteria
👉 You may be able to seal the case entirely — removing it from most public background checks.
📘 Why Sealing Matters for Your Future
Even if you avoid jail or license suspension, a DUI arrest can follow you forever unless the record is sealed. It can impact:
Employment
State licensing
Housing applications
Insurance premiums
Professional reputation
✅ A sealed record makes your arrest invisible to the public (except in limited government use cases).
🔁 How We Use Wet Reckless Pleas to Protect Records
At Michael White, P.A., we don’t settle for “just a deal.” We build a case to get your charges reduced, and then:
Push for a withhold of adjudication
Confirm sealing eligibility before accepting the plea
Walk you through the sealing process after your case is closed
Work to clear your record fully whenever possible
🎯 We’re thinking not just about today’s court — but about your future job interview, lease application, or state board review.
📞 Arrested for DUI? Let’s Keep Your Record Clean.
A DUI doesn’t have to ruin your life. If we can reduce the charge, negotiate a withhold, and protect your sealing rights — we can help you move forward without a permanent stain on your record.
👉 Call Michael White, P.A. today for a free consultation — and let’s fight for your future.
🙋♂️ Frequently Asked Questions About Wet Reckless and Sealing in Florida
❓ What is a wet reckless charge?
A wet reckless is a reckless driving offense that involves alcohol or drugs. It’s often the result of a plea deal to avoid a DUI conviction.
❓ Can I seal a wet reckless in Florida?
Yes, if adjudication is withheld and you meet the other eligibility criteria (no prior convictions, no other sealed/expunged records, etc.).
❓ Why can’t a DUI be sealed?
Florida law prohibits the sealing or expungement of DUI convictions, even with a withhold of adjudication.
❓ Does a wet reckless show up on a background check?
Yes — unless it’s sealed. Once sealed, it’s hidden from most public and private background checks.
❓ Will the court automatically seal my case?
No. You must petition the court after your case ends. We handle that process for eligible clients.
🧾 Don’t plead guilty without knowing the long-term consequences.
Call Michael White, P.A. today to explore whether a wet reckless deal could protect your future and keep your record sealable.