How to Expunge a Felony in Florida

How to Expunge a Felony in Florida

At Spodek Law Group, our experienced attorneys understand the lasting impact a felony conviction can have on your life. A criminal record can make it difficult to secure employment, housing, professional licenses, and more – even years after you’ve paid your debt to society. Fortunately, Florida law allows certain individuals to expunge their felony record and move forward with a clean slate. If you’re eligible, our skilled legal team can guide you through every step of the process to expunge your felony in Florida.

What Does It Mean to Expunge a Felony in Florida?

When a court expunges your felony conviction, the public no longer has access to those records. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will physically destroy or obliterate the felony record, removing it from public databases. Legally, it’s as if the conviction NEVER OCCURRED once it’s expunged. You can honestly answer “no” if an employer, landlord, or other entity asks if you’ve ever been convicted of a felony (with a few exceptions that we’ll cover later).

It’s important to understand that expungement DOESN’T erase the felony from your mind or absolve you of what happened. Rather, it shields the conviction from public view so you have a FAIR chance to rebuild your life without the stigma and barriers of a criminal past. Sealing your record provides many of the same benefits but uses a different process. Our knowledgeable attorneys can assess your case and advise whether expungement or sealing is the better option.

Benefits of Expunging a Felony in Florida

Clearing your record opens up a world of NEW opportunities that a felony conviction might otherwise bar you from pursuing. Some of the key advantages of expunging a felony include:

• Increased employment prospects. Most employers run criminal background checks. With an expunged record, you can confidently apply for jobs knowing your felony won’t come back to haunt you.
• Access to housing. Landlords and leasing agents routinely screen applicants’ criminal histories. An expunged felony no longer appears on residential background checks.
• Loan and credit eligibility. A felony record can disqualify you from certain loans, mortgages, and lines of credit. Removing that conviction improves your financial freedom.
• Educational opportunities. Colleges and universities may deny admission based on criminal history. Expungement allows you to pursue higher education without that barrier.
• Professional licenses. With a clear record, you can obtain professional licenses that a felony conviction would otherwise restrict, such as nursing, teaching, and more.

At Spodek Law Group, we believe everyone deserves a SECOND CHANCE. Our compassionate attorneys can EMPOWER you to embrace the benefits of a fresh start by expunging your Florida felony. Call us today at 866-608-5529 to discuss your options confidentially.

Eligibility for Felony Expungement in Florida

Not everyone with a felony conviction qualifies to have their record expunged in Florida. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

• No previous felony expungements. You can only expunge one felony arrest record in your lifetime.
• Completed all sentencing. You must have fulfilled the terms of your sentence, including incarceration, probation, restitution, and any other court-ordered sanctions.
• No pending charges. You cannot have any open criminal cases or pending charges in Florida or elsewhere.
• No disqualifying convictions. Certain felonies, such as violent crimes and sex offenses, are ineligible for expungement. If your case involved violence, sex crimes, or domestic violence, you likely won’t qualify.
• Some waiting periods apply. Depending on the felony, you may need to wait a set time after completing your sentence to seek expungement.

The rules are nuanced with many exceptions and technicalities. Don’t GUESS about your eligibility. Consult our accomplished expungement lawyers to determine if you meet the legal requirements to clear your record. We provide HONEST answers you can trust.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

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2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

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2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

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2024-03-12

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2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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The Felony Expungement Process in Florida

Obtaining a felony expungement involves several steps. An experienced attorney can streamline the process to achieve the outcome you need efficiently. At Spodek Law Group, we handle expungement cases frequently and are well-versed in the procedures.

Generally, the process unfolds as follows:

1. Obtain a certificate of eligibility. You must first get a certificate from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement confirming your eligibility to expunge your record. Our attorneys can help you secure this document.
2. File a petition for expungement. Next, we draft and file a formal petition asking the court to expunge your felony conviction. The petition explains how you satisfy the criteria for expungement.
3. Appear at the hearing. The court will schedule a hearing to review your petition. In most cases, our attorneys can appear on your behalf so you don’t have to take time off work or confront the anxiety of going to court.
4. Serve the order. If the judge grants your petition, the clerk issues an order to expunge your record. We then serve certified copies to all relevant agencies to ensure your felony is erased.

The full process can take several months from start to finish. With Spodek Law Group on your side, you can feel confident your expungement is being handled properly and ROFICIENTLY every step of the way. We’re here to ADVOCATE for you.

Limitations of Expunging a Felony in Florida

In most situations, expunging a felony allows you to move forward as if the conviction never happened. However, there are some key EXCEPTIONS when your sealed record can still be held against you:

• Government employment. If you apply for a job with a federal, state, or local government agency, they can access your expunged record.
• Professional licenses. State licensing boards can view your complete criminal history, including expunged offenses, when considering your application.
• Military service. A felony expungement does not hide your conviction from the U.S. Armed Forces. You must still disclose expunged offenses when enlisting.
• Concealed weapons permits. When applying for a concealed carry permit, your expunged felonies can still be factored into approval decisions.
• Immigration proceedings. Expungement under Florida law does not erase felonies for federal immigration purposes. An expunged conviction can still impact your legal status.

We understand how overwhelming it can feel to have a felony conviction hanging over your head. The stigma, the limitations, the constant worry about how it might impact your future – it’s a heavy burden to bear. But take heart, because you’ve found the right team to help you break free.At Spodek Law Group, we’ve guided countless individuals just like you through the felony expungement process in Florida. With our expertise and compassion, we’ll be by your side every step of the way, fighting to give you the fresh start you deserve.So let’s dive in and explore how we can help you expunge that felony conviction and reclaim your life.

Understanding Felony Expungement in Florida: What You Need to Know

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s address some common concerns and misconceptions about felony expungement in the Sunshine State:“Isn’t it impossible to expunge a felony in Florida?”Not at all! While the requirements are strict, certain felony convictions can indeed be expunged under Florida law. It’s a matter of meeting the eligibility criteria and navigating the process correctly – something our skilled attorneys excel at.“I’ve heard expungement is expensive and complicated. Is it worth the hassle?”We get it, the thought of going through a lengthy legal process can be daunting. But trust us, the freedom and peace of mind that comes with a clean record is priceless. And with our guidance, we’ll make the process as smooth and affordable as possible.“What if my felony isn’t eligible for expungement? Am I out of luck?”Not necessarily! Even if your felony doesn’t qualify for expungement, you may still be able to have your record sealed. While not as comprehensive as expungement, record sealing can still provide significant benefits by limiting public access to your criminal history.Now that we’ve addressed some common concerns, let’s dive deeper into the world of felony expungement in Florida.

H2: Eligibility: Can Your Felony Be Expunged?

In Florida, not all felony convictions are eligible for expungement. The state has specific criteria that must be met, including:

• The felony conviction must be for a single offense (multiple felony convictions generally disqualify you)
• The felony cannot be one of the ineligible offenses listed in Florida Statutes § 943.0585(4), such as:
  • Felony sexual offenses
  • Felony offenses involving minors
  • Felony offenses involving violence or the use of a deadly weapon
• You must have completed all sentences and conditions imposed by the court
• You cannot have been adjudicated guilty of any criminal offense, regardless of whether adjudication was withheld

It’s important to note that even if your felony meets these basic criteria, there may be additional factors that could impact your eligibility. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced expungement attorney review your specific case and guide you through the process.At Spodek Law Group, we’ll conduct a thorough evaluation of your criminal record and circumstances to determine if you qualify for felony expungement in Florida. If you do, we’ll work tirelessly to build a strong case and increase your chances of success.Curious if your felony might be eligible? Give us a call at 212-300-5196, and one of our knowledgeable attorneys will be happy to discuss your situation.

The Expungement Process: Step-by-Step with Spodek Law Group

Navigating the felony expungement process in Florida can be complex, but with Spodek Law Group by your side, you can rest assured that every detail will be handled with precision and care. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation

During our initial consultation, we’ll gather all the necessary information about your felony conviction, criminal history, and personal circumstances. This allows us to thoroughly evaluate your eligibility and develop a tailored strategy for your expungement case.

Step 2: Preparing and Filing the Expungement Petition

If you’re eligible for expungement, our attorneys will meticulously prepare and file the necessary paperwork with the appropriate Florida court. This includes the expungement petition, supporting documentation, and any additional forms or affidavits required.

Step 3: Attending the Expungement Hearing (If Required)

In some cases, the court may require a hearing before ruling on your expungement petition. If a hearing is scheduled, one of our skilled attorneys will accompany you and present a compelling argument on your behalf.

Step 4: Receiving the Court’s Decision

Once the court has reviewed your case, they will issue a decision on whether to grant or deny your expungement petition. If granted, your felony conviction will effectively be erased from your record, opening up a world of new opportunities.

Step 5: Ensuring Proper Record Updating

Even after your expungement is granted, there’s still work to be done. Our team will follow up with the appropriate agencies to ensure your criminal record is properly updated to reflect the expungement. This includes the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).Throughout this entire process, our attorneys will be by your side, answering your questions, addressing your concerns, and providing the guidance and support you need.

The Benefits of Expunging a Felony in Florida

Achieving a successful felony expungement in Florida can have a profoundly positive impact on your life. Here are just a few of the benefits you can expect:

Employment Opportunities

With a felony conviction on your record, finding employment can be an uphill battle. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a criminal history, even if the offense was non-violent or occurred years ago. By expunging your felony, you’ll level the playing field and increase your chances of securing the job you want.

Housing Options

Landlords and property management companies often conduct background checks on potential tenants. A felony conviction can be a major red flag, leading to denied rental applications or higher security deposits. With an expunged record, you’ll have a much easier time finding suitable housing without facing discrimination.

Educational Prospects

Applying to colleges, universities, or vocational programs can be challenging with a felony on your record. Many educational institutions have strict admissions policies regarding criminal histories. By expunging your felony, you’ll open up new doors to further your education and pursue your academic goals.

Professional Licensing

Certain professions, such as healthcare, education, and finance, require licensing or certification. A felony conviction can be a significant barrier to obtaining these licenses or maintaining them. With an expunged record, you’ll have a better chance of securing the necessary credentials to advance in your chosen career.

Improved Self-Confidence and Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most significant benefit of expunging a felony is the sense of relief and renewed self-confidence it can bring. No longer will you have to worry about your past mistakes haunting you or holding you back. With a clean slate, you can move forward with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.At Spodek Law Group, we’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of felony expungement. It’s our mission to help as many individuals as possible experience this life-changing opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Expungement in Florida

As you embark on the journey of expunging your felony in Florida, you’re bound to have questions and concerns. Here are some of the most common queries we receive, along with our expert insights:

Q: How long after my felony conviction can I apply for expungement?A: In Florida, there is no specific waiting period before you can apply for felony expungement. However, you must have completed all sentences and conditions imposed by the court, including probation, parole, and any required treatment programs.

Q: Can I expunge multiple felony convictions at once?A: Unfortunately, no. Florida law only allows for the expungement of a single felony conviction. If you have multiple felony convictions, you’ll need to go through the expungement process separately for each one.

Q: Will an expunged felony still show up on background checks?A: No, once your felony is expunged, it should no longer appear on background checks conducted by potential employers, landlords, or educational institutions. However, it’s important to note that some government agencies and law enforcement entities may still have access to your expunged record.

Q: Can I expunge a felony conviction from another state in Florida?A: No, Florida’s expungement laws only apply to felony convictions that occurred within the state. If you have an out-of-state felony conviction, you’ll need to explore expungement or sealing options in that particular state.

Q: How much does it cost to expunge a felony in Florida?A: The cost of felony expungement in Florida can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of your case and the county where you file. At Spodek Law Group, we offer transparent and competitive pricing, with the goal of making this fresh start accessible to as many individuals as possible.Have additional questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at 212-300-5196. We’re here to provide the guidance and support you need throughout the expungement process.

Why Choose Spodek Law Group for Your Felony Expungement?

At Spodek Law Group, we understand that expunging a felony is about more than just clearing your record – it’s about reclaiming your future and restoring your sense of dignity. That’s why we approach every case with unwavering dedication, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice.Here’s what sets us apart:

Extensive Experience in Felony Expungement

Our team of skilled attorneys has extensive experience navigating the complexities of Florida’s expungement laws. We’ve successfully guided countless individuals through the process, ensuring that every detail is handled with precision and care.

Personalized Attention and Support

From our very first consultation, we take the time to truly understand your unique circumstances and goals. We’ll be by your side every step of the way, providing personalized attention, answering your questions, and offering the support you need to feel empowered throughout the process.

Proven Track Record of Success

At Spodek Law Group, we don’t just talk about results – we deliver them. Our proven track record of successful felony expungements speaks for itself, and we’re committed to fighting tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Compassionate and Judgment-Free Approach

We understand that facing a felony conviction can be a deeply personal and emotional experience. That’s why we approach every case with empathy, compassion, and a judgment-free attitude. Our goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can feel heard and respected.