Criminal Record Sealing: What It Means for You

A criminal record can follow you for years, limiting your job prospects, housing options, and personal opportunities. Criminal record sealing provides a legal way to restrict public access to your record and start fresh. We guide clients personally as a State criminal defense attorney in Miami, FL, helping determine eligibility and manage the process so you can move forward confidently.

How Criminal Record Sealing Works

Sealing a criminal record keeps it in government databases but restricts public access. This means most private employers, landlords, and background check companies will not be able to view it. However, law enforcement, courts, and certain government agencies such as licensing boards in healthcare, finance, and education can still access sealed records. In practice, your record may not appear when applying for retail, office, or hospitality jobs, but it could still be reviewed for professional licenses or public-sector positions. Our State criminal defense lawyer helps clients determine eligibility based on the offense type, time since conviction, and completion of all court requirements, such as fines, probation, or community service.

Which Records Can Be Sealed?

Eligible cases often include misdemeanors like petty theft, simple assault, or certain drug possession charges. Some non-violent felony charges with withheld adjudication may qualify for sealing, depending on offense type. Dismissed or acquitted cases may qualify, and juvenile records often have more lenient eligibility, and are done automatically. Crimes that are generally not eligible include violent offenses, sexual offenses, and major felonies. Our State defense attorney reviews your criminal history in detail to identify qualifying charges and guides you through the filing process.

Benefits of Sealing Your Record

Sealing your record can create immediate opportunities. Beyond practical benefits, clients often report reduced stress and a sense of renewed control over their lives. Our State criminal attorney can guide you so that petitions are filed correctly, deadlines are met, and notifications to district attorneys or other parties are handled efficiently.

The Process Made Simple

Filing to seal a record involves obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) before filing with the court, collecting court documents, preparing petitions, and attending hearings. Waiting periods vary, from as little as two years for certain misdemeanors to up to ten years for more serious convictions. Our State criminal defense legal services provide a clear roadmap, helping clients understand eligibility, timelines, and required documentation, so you know exactly what to expect.

Common Questions About Criminal Record Sealing

Can multiple records be sealed at once? 

You may seal multiple charges from the same arrest if all are eligible, but generally only one criminal history record per lifetime can be sealed under Florida law.

Will sealing my record remove employment barriers? 

Most employers will not see a sealed record, though certain professions and licensing boards may still have access.

What happens if my petition is denied? 

Denials may be appealed, but re-filing is subject to statutory limits and judicial discretion.

How long does the process of sealing a criminal record take?

The typical timeframe is 6 to 12 months, depending on case complexity.

Do I need an attorney?

Seeking out State criminal defense law services is highly recommended due to the procedural complexity and strict eligibility criteria.

Speak With a Trusted Legal Team

Record sealing can open doors, but many rules come with exceptions based on the offense, state laws, and your case history. Our attorneys can determine exactly how these factors apply to you. OneCallLegal.com is available 24/7, offering over 20 years of experience, nationwide representation, and flexible financing options to make the process easier for you. Get in touch with our law firm today to speak with a qualified attorney about sealing your record and moving forward with confidence.