Expungement and Record Clearing Attorney in Brandon
A criminal record affects employment, housing, and opportunities. Curry Law Group helps clear your record through expungement and sealing.
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What is Expungement?
Expungement is a court order sealing or destroying criminal records. Once expunged, you can legally deny the arrest or conviction in most circumstances. Expungement removes employment and housing barriers created by your record.
Eligibility in Florida
In Florida, you may petition for expungement if charges were dropped or you were acquitted, or for sealing if adjudication was withheld. Each person is generally eligible for one expungement in their lifetime.
The Expungement Process
The process involves obtaining a certificate of eligibility from FDLE, filing a petition with the court, notifying the state attorney, and attending a hearing. If granted, law enforcement agencies must seal their records.
Sealing vs Expungement
Sealing makes records confidential but they still exist. Expungement destroys records. Sealing requires adjudication withheld; expungement typically requires charges dismissed or acquittal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I deny the arrest after expungement? Yes, with limited exceptions for certain professions such as law enforcement and education. How long does the process take? Typically 4-8 months from start to finish. Can any conviction be expunged? Not all. Certain serious offenses are ineligible for expungement regardless of circumstances.
Contact Curry Law Group Today
To explore expungement options and clear your record, call Curry Law Group. Call 813-653-2500 for a consultation.
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Key Legal Terms
Important Criminal Law Terms
Understanding these terms can help you make informed decisions about your case.
Acquittal
A decision by a judge or jury that the evidence did not prove the defendant's guilt. The person is released and cannot be tried again for the same charge.
Read full definitionArraignment
A defendant's first formal court appearance after arrest, where charges are read, a plea is entered, and bail may be set. It marks the start of formal criminal proceedings.
Read full definitionAssault and Battery
The use of physical force against another person. In Florida, simple assault is a threat or attempt, while battery involves actual contact, and both can be charged as misdemeanors or felonies.
Read full definitionBail
Security posted to secure a defendant's release from jail pending trial, conditioned on appearing in court. Florida judges set bail based on the charge, criminal history, and flight risk.
Read full definitionBench Warrant
A warrant issued by a judge, typically for failing to appear in court or violating a court order. An outstanding warrant can lead to arrest at any time.
Read full definitionBurglary
The unlawful entry into a building or structure with intent to commit a crime inside. Florida treats it as a felony, with enhanced penalties if a weapon was involved.
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Top-Asked Questions
No. Always politely decline to answer questions and request an attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you, even if taken out of context. Police are trained to extract information, and you have the right to legal representation. We strongly advise invoking your right to counsel before any questioning.
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes (shoplifting, simple assault) punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies are more serious (burglary, drug trafficking) and carry sentences of more than one year or potentially life imprisonment. The charge type affects penalties, sentencing guidelines, and your rights.
Yes. Charges can be dismissed if evidence is insufficient, if your constitutional rights were violated (illegal search), if the statute of limitations expired, or if the prosecutor agrees to dismissal. We investigate the evidence thoroughly and file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and challenge weak cases.
At arraignment, you're informed of charges, advised of your rights, and bail/bond is set. You enter a plea (not guilty, guilty, or no contest). It's critical to have an attorney present—what you say and do affects your entire case. We protect your rights from the first court appearance.
You can go to trial (where guilt must be proven beyond reasonable doubt), negotiate a plea deal with reduced charges/sentences, or pursue other resolutions. We evaluate the evidence strength, witnesses, and prosecution's case to advise you on your best option. The decision is always yours.
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