Clear Your Criminal Record in Florida | Sealing & Expungement

The Hidden Cost of a Criminal Record

A criminal record follows you everywhere. It shows up on background checks when you're applying for jobs, looking for housing, or seeking educational opportunities.

Even if your charges were dismissed, reduced, or you received a withhold of adjudication—that arrest still appears on your record. Employers see it. Landlords see it. And it costs you opportunities you deserve.

Your past mistake shouldn't be a life sentence.

Job Interview Affected by Criminal Record

Where Your Record Hurts You Most

Employment: Background checks can disqualify you before you even get an interview
Housing: Landlords routinely deny applications based on criminal history
Professional Licenses: Many careers require a clean record
Education: College admissions and financial aid can be affected
Personal Reputation: Your record is public—anyone can look it up online

The Solution: Sealing & Expungement

Florida law provides two powerful legal remedies to remove your criminal record from public view: sealing and expungement. When your record is sealed or expunged, it won't show up on most background checks—and you can legally deny the arrest ever happened in most situations.

Sealing Your Record

When a record is sealed, it's hidden from public view but not destroyed. This is typically available when adjudication was withheld on your case.

Best for: Cases where you pleaded guilty/no contest but adjudication was withheld

Expunging Your Record

Expungement means your record is physically destroyed by all agencies. This provides the highest level of privacy protection.

Best for: Dismissed charges, dropped cases, or records sealed for 10+ years

Life After Sealing or Expungement

Your record won't appear on most employment background checks
You can legally deny or fail to acknowledge the arrest on job applications
Landlords won't see your criminal history when screening tenants
You can move forward with confidence and peace of mind
Doors that were closed will finally open

Why Trust Lotter Law with Your Future?

Sealing and expunging a criminal record is a complex legal process involving multiple government agencies, strict deadlines, and detailed paperwork. One mistake can cost you months of delays—or permanent denial.

Attorney Jeff Lotter

Former State Trooper & Deputy Sheriff

Now Fighting for Your Second Chance

Jeff Lotter understands the criminal justice system from both sides. As a former law enforcement officer, he knows how the system works—and as a criminal defense attorney, he knows how to navigate it for your benefit.

✓ Expert Legal Knowledge

We handle every aspect of your case—from initial eligibility assessment to final court order—ensuring nothing is overlooked.

✓ Professional Representation

We prepare all required documents, obtain certifications, coordinate with FDLE and the State Attorney, and represent you in court if necessary.

✓ Proven Track Record

Attorney Lotter has successfully helped countless Floridians clear their records and reclaim their futures.

✓ Peace of Mind

You'll have an experienced attorney guiding you through every step, handling the complexity so you don't have to.

The DIY Risk

While it's legally possible to file for sealing or expungement on your own, the process is technical and unforgiving. Missing a deadline, filing incorrect paperwork, or failing to properly serve documents can result in your petition being denied—and you may not get a second chance. When your future is on the line, professional representation is worth the investment.

Our Simple Process

1

Free Consultation

We review your case and determine eligibility at no cost

2

We Handle Everything

All paperwork, filings, and coordination with agencies

3

Court Approval

We represent you before the judge if a hearing is required

4

Clean Record

Your record is sealed or expunged—you can move forward

Timeline

The process typically takes 7-12 months depending on FDLE's current backlog and the specifics of your case. We stay on top of your case every step of the way to ensure it moves as quickly as possible.

Clear, Honest Pricing

$1,500

All-Inclusive Attorney Representation

Flat fee covers all legal services from start to finish

What's Included:

Complete case review and eligibility assessment
All document preparation and filing
Coordination with FDLE, State Attorney, and court
Court representation if a hearing is required
Follow-up to ensure compliance with court order

Special Discount for Former Clients

If we've represented you before, ask about our returning client discount

Note: Court filing fees and FDLE processing fees (approximately $117) are additional and paid directly to those agencies.

Am I Eligible?

Not everyone qualifies for sealing or expungement, but many more people are eligible than realize it. Here are the basic requirements:

You May Qualify If:

Your charges were dismissed or dropped
You received a withhold of adjudication (no conviction)
You completed probation successfully
You have no prior convictions in Florida
You haven't previously sealed or expunged a record
Your offense is not on the disqualified list

You're Not Eligible If:

You were convicted (adjudicated guilty) of the offense
Your offense is on Florida's disqualified list (certain violent crimes, sex offenses, etc.)
You have pending criminal charges
You've previously sealed or expunged a Florida record

Not Sure If You Qualify?

Eligibility rules can be complex, and every case is different. The best way to find out if you qualify is to schedule a free consultation with Attorney Lotter.

We'll review your criminal history, assess your eligibility, and give you honest advice about your options—at no cost and with no obligation.

Common Questions

How long does it take?

Typically 7-12 months from start to finish, depending on FDLE's processing times and your specific case details.

Will my record be completely erased?

With sealing, your record is hidden from public view. With expungement, it's physically destroyed by all agencies. Either way, it won't show up on most background checks and you can legally deny the arrest in most situations.

Can I seal or expunge a DUI?

It depends on the outcome. If you were convicted of DUI, it cannot be sealed or expunged. However, if charges were reduced (such as to reckless driving with a withhold) or dismissed, you may qualify. We'll assess your specific case during your consultation.

Can I do this without an attorney?

While you're legally allowed to represent yourself, the process involves multiple agencies, strict deadlines, detailed legal documents, and coordination with prosecutors and the court. Mistakes can lead to denial and months of delays. Most people find that professional representation is worth the investment for such an important matter.

What if I have multiple arrests?

Florida law generally allows for only one sealing or expungement in your lifetime. However, if multiple charges arose from a single incident, they may be sealed or expunged together. We'll evaluate your situation during your free consultation.

Will employers still be able to see my record?

Most employers will not see sealed or expunged records on background checks. There are limited exceptions for certain government positions and jobs working with vulnerable populations. We'll explain what applies to your situation.

Ready to Clear Your Record and Move Forward?

Don't let your past continue to limit your future. Take the first step toward a clean record today.

Free Consultation • Flat-Fee Pricing • Former Law Enforcement • Fighting for You

Call: 407-500-7000 Request Free Consultation

Law Office of Jeff Lotter PLLC
200 E Robinson St Suite 1140, Orlando, FL 32801