Expungement & Record sealing
Get a fresh start in life through sealing or expunging your criminal record
Expungement & Record sealing Attorney In Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Helping You Seal Your Criminal Record in Florida
We are all human, and it is important to recognize that everyone is capable of making mistakes from time to time. However, it's crucial to understand that some mistakes can have serious and far-reaching consequences that may detrimentally impact our livelihoods and daily lives.
For instance, being arrested is not just a momentary setback; it can leave a significant blemish on your criminal record. Moreover, if you are ultimately convicted, this conviction can become an ongoing and ever-present obstacle that affects various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities and personal relationships.
One effective way to combat the negative repercussions of a criminal record is by seeking the assistance of a skilled Fort Lauderdale criminal defense lawyer. At the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Grossman, LLC, our experienced attorney is well-equipped to guide you through the complex process of expungement or record sealing in the Statewide area.
With over 36 years of dedicated experience as a criminal defense lawyer, you can rely on his exceptional counsel and advocacy to help you navigate these challenges and work towards a brighter future. Your rights and your reputation deserve protection, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has been arrested in South Florida, call Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Grossman, LLC today at 954-637-1154 and schedule a free initial consultation.
The Impact of a Criminal Record on Your Life Opportunities
Did you know that if you are arrested, and the charges are ultimately dropped, the arrest remains on your record? In today's market, universities, banks, lenders, and most employers require a criminal background check as part of their vetting process.
A criminal history appearing on those background checks can prevent you from:
- Getting a job
- Renting an apartment
- Getting a much-needed loan
- Pursuing higher education
- Owning a gun
- Voting
- Getting citizenship
However, the State of Florida provides one chance for a person to have their criminal record sealed or expunged.
What is The Difference between Expungement & Record-Sealing?
The legal system can be complex, so it is always best to work with a Fort Lauderdale expungement attorney. However, there are clear differences between expungement and record sealing that can impact the course of action we recommend for your situation. The main difference between expunging a criminal record and sealing it is that when a record is sealed it still exists both legally and physically. When a record is expunged, any record of the arrest or charge is permanently gone.
- Record Sealing: When a record is sealed, the criminal history remains. If you are ever arrested again, prosecutors can access sealed records, because sealing them makes them confidential but available. Certain government agencies, attorneys, and others in the judiciary system will be able to access those confidential records, but the general public will not be able to access them.
- Expungement: If the record is expunged, it's like the arrest or offense never happened. The record is destroyed and no longer exists. A background search will reveal that a record has been expunged, but no other information will be available. You may qualify for expungement if you are arrested, but charges were not filed or if the case was dismissed after a criminal charge.
While you might feel it's best to expunge your record rather than having it sealed, you may not qualify for expungement. Record sealing is a positive alternative for those who do not qualify for expungement. Your record will remain sealed for 10 years without new arrests, charges, or convictions, after which you can then request to have the sealed records expunged.
Your Experienced Defense Attorney
Our
Fort Lauderdale expungement lawyer are familiar with the process for sealing or expunging records to protect your rights. We will provide the guidance you need to make the proper decision based upon the specific circumstances of your case.
Have Questions?
We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to speak with you about your criminal case. Call 954-637-1154 or schedule a free consultation online to get in touch with our criminal defense lawyer in Fort Lauderdale.