Sealed and expunged criminal record file with gavel and court documents representing record clearing in Florida

Sealing and Expungement in Florida — Can You Clear Your Criminal Record?

April 22, 2026•1 min read

Reviewed by Michael P. Maddux, Esq. | Board Certified Criminal Trial Lawyer | Florida Super Lawyer for 16 Consecutive Years

Clearing a criminal arrest record can make a real difference, but not everyone qualifies.

Key Points

Sealing or expunging a record is usually limited to one case in a lifetime. Most dismissed or not guilty cases may qualify, but convictions usually do not.

Why It Matters

Sealing or expunging your record can help with jobs and housing, keeps your record out of most background checks, and reduces the stigma that often follows a past arrest.

Bottom Line

If you qualify, sealing or expunging your record can open doors that were previously closed.

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Carrie Tonski

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