Getting a Fresh Start After a Conviction

The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney in Expungement

Turning your life around after a criminal conviction can be difficult when you have a criminal record. Under the Florida Sunshine Law, your criminal history is considered a public record, which means it can be requested by anyone in the state. They don’t even have to give a reason for their request. 

With background checks becoming increasingly common in all walks of life, landlords, prospective employers, universities to which you’ve applied – even potential romantic partners can view the details of the mistakes you’ve made. The only way to prevent that from happening is through expungement or sealing, which the criminal defense attorneys at Albert & Donnelly LLC have successfully helped many clients achieve.

• Expungement means that your criminal record is destroyed.
• A sealed record still exists, but it cannot be accessed by members of the public.

Steps to Take for Expungement

Getting a criminal record expunged or sealed so that you can leave your mistakes behind and move forward in your life is not easy. The procedure for doing so set forth by the State of Florida is exacting. Albert & Donnelly LLC is experienced and knowledgeable about the many steps to take and documentation required, which include:

1. Filling out an application for a Certificate of Eligibility.
2. Completing a FDLE fingerprint form (FD 40-024).
3. Retrieving a disposition of the case, which may require the arresting police department, State Attorney’s Office or Clerk of the Court to submit a letter.
4. Paying a fee.

There are several types of expungement, from administrative to juvenile diversion to lawful self-defense. The criminal defense attorneys at Albert & Donnelly will determine the best type for your individual situation and represent you throughout the process.

Contact Us Today

Your past does not have to negatively affect your future. Call Albert & Donnelly LLC at (321) 777-1110 or fill out the online form to schedule a consultation. We will review your case and give you