Clearwater Criminal Record Sealing & Expungement Lawyer
Clear Your Record. Protect Your Future.
A criminal record can follow you for life, impacting job opportunities, housing options, and even military enlistment. Many employers, landlords, and organizations conduct background checks, and even a single arrest or dismissed charge can create obstacles in your personal and professional life.
Fortunately, Florida law allows certain individuals to seal or expunge their criminal record, giving them a second chance at a clean slate. At McGuire Megna Attorneys, we help clients navigate the complex process of record sealing and expungement, ensuring that their past does not define their future.
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Why Expunge or Seal Your Criminal Record?
Having a criminal history—even if you were never convicted—can affect:
Employment Opportunities – Many employers run background checks and may deny applicants based on criminal records. Housing Applications – Landlords and property managers can refuse to rent to individuals with criminal records. Professional Licensing – Many professions, such as healthcare, law, and finance, require background screenings. Education & Scholarships – Some colleges and scholarship programs consider criminal history in admissions decisions. Military Enlistment – A criminal record can make it difficult or impossible to enlist in the U.S. Armed Forces.
By sealing or expunging your record, you can legally deny or avoid disclosing your criminal history in most situations, giving you a fresh start.
Sealing vs. Expunging a Criminal Record: What’s the Difference?
Many people ask, “Should I seal or expunge my record?” The answer depends on your case outcome and criminal history.
What Does It Mean to Expunge a Record?
Expungement permanently removes your record from public view. Most agencies will not see any trace of the record. Only a few select government entities (e.g., law enforcement, the military) may access it in rare circumstances.
Who Qualifies for Expungement?
Your charges must have been dismissed, dropped (nolle prosequi), or never prosecuted. You must have never been adjudicated guilty of a crime. Your case cannot involve certain serious offenses (e.g., sexual offenses, violent felonies).
What Does It Mean to Seal a Record?
Sealing restricts public access to your record, but it still exists in government databases. Employers and landlords cannot see the details, but certain agencies may know a sealed record exists. You do not have to disclose the record in most job or housing applications.
Who Qualifies for Record Sealing?
You must have received a “withhold of adjudication.” You must not have any prior convictions. Certain crimes, such as violent felonies and sex offenses, may not be eligible.
Not sure if you qualify? Contact us today for a free eligibility review!
How the Expungement & Sealing Process Works in Florida
The process of sealing or expunging your record involves multiple legal steps, which can be complex and time-consuming. Our attorneys handle the entire process for you, ensuring everything is completed correctly and efficiently.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
We review your case to determine if you qualify for record sealing or expungement.
Step 2: File an Application with FDLE
We submit a formal application to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), along with required documentation.
Step 3: Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility
If FDLE approves your application, they issue a Certificate of Eligibility, allowing us to proceed with filing in court.
Step 4: File a Petition with the Court
We submit a petition to seal or expunge your record in the appropriate Florida court.
Step 5: Court Approval & Final Order
If the court grants the petition, your record is sealed or expunged, giving you a fresh start.
The sooner you start, the sooner you can clear your record. Call now to begin the process!
Why Choose McGuire Megna Attorneys for Your Expungement Case?
Experienced Record Sealing & Expungement Lawyers – We have successfully helped clients clear their records across Florida. Fast & Efficient Process – We handle all paperwork, filings, and court representation for you. Affordable Legal Fees – We offer transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Personalized Legal Guidance – Every case is different. We provide customized legal strategies for your situation. Comprehensive Background Check Support – We ensure your record is properly sealed or expunged across all databases.
Don’t let your past hold you back. Contact McGuire Megna Attorneys today for a free consultation!
Start the Expungement Process Today – Call McGuire Megna Attorneys
Your past does not have to define your future. If you qualify for record sealing or expungement, now is the time to take action. At McGuire Megna Attorneys, we make the process simple, stress-free, and affordable.
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Personal Service, Prompt Attention, Experience and Expertise.
John McGuire’s commitment is to provide you with the prompt, personal attention you deserve at every stage of representation. We take the time to listen to your concerns and provide you with the advice you need to proceed in the right direction, and we keep you informed as your case develops.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The process typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on case complexity and court schedules.
No. Expungement is only available for cases that were dismissed, dropped, or not prosecuted.
It depends. If you received a withhold of adjudication, you may be eligible to seal your record.
Expunged records: Do not appear on most background checks.
Sealed records: May still show that a record exists but will not display details.
Certain offenses, such as:
Sexual battery or offenses against minors
Homicide or manslaughter
Aggravated assault or battery
Human trafficking
Kidnapping