Your arrest records may be available for searches by the general public, including prospective employers and landlords. If you meet the legal criteria, it is in your interests to have your arrest record expunged or sealed. A Marathon expungement lawyer at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC can represent you in the legal process that can lead to expungement. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation with a dedicated criminal defense attorney.

What Are the State’s Laws on Expungement?

Florida’s expungement laws allow eligible individuals to have criminal arrest records physically destroyed, making them completely inaccessible to the public. Florida Statutes § 943.0585 governs the expungement process and establishes strict eligibility requirements.

To qualify, your case must have resulted in dismissal, acquittal, or no formal charges filed. Convictions cannot be expunged in Florida, and you cannot have previously sealed or expunged any records, with limited exceptions for certain juvenile records.

Certain serious offenses are permanently ineligible for expungement, including sexual offenses, violent crimes, and crimes against children. You must complete all court-ordered requirements and have no pending criminal proceedings. The process requires obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the FDLE, filing a petition in the court where charges originated, and obtaining approval from the state attorney and judge. Our Marathon attorneys are experienced in navigating the expungement process and can help you get your criminal record sealed.

What Is the Expungement Process Like?

There are numerous steps that you need to follow in the expungement process, including:

  • Obtaining a certificate of eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement that confirms you meet legal requirements to have your criminal record expunged or sealed
  • Filing a petition for expungement in Monroe County Court, including your personal information, case details, arrest information, and the Certificate of Eligibility
  • Waiting for the prosecutor’s response, with their opinion about whether you are eligible for expungement
  • If the prosecutor objects to expungement, attending a hearing in court where each side presents its arguments to the judge
  • The judge considers your request and what the prosecutor has to say, and they determine whether your record should be expunged or sealed
  • The judge enters an order that expunges your criminal record if they approve the request

Our Marathon attorneys can guide you throughout the expungement process to ensure you complete each step correctly and with confidence.

What Are the Benefits of Hiring an Expungement Lawyer?

Hiring an expungement lawyer in Marathon provides significant advantages when clearing your criminal record. Our attorneys at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC understand the state’s expungement requirements and can quickly assess your eligibility, preventing wasted time and money pursuing ineligible cases.

Expungement lawyers handle all paperwork accurately, ensuring petitions meet Monroe County court requirements and avoiding rejections due to technical errors. They coordinate with FDLE, state attorneys, arresting agencies, and court clerks, managing communication and meeting all procedural deadlines.

Legal representation increases approval chances substantially. Attorneys present compelling arguments to prosecutors and judges, addressing objections persuasively and advocating effectively at hearings. They know local Marathon court procedures and maintain professional relationships that facilitate smoother processing.

Lawyers can also protect your rights throughout the process, ensuring proper service of documents and challenging improper denials. They advise on whether sealing might be better than expungement for your situation.

Most importantly, attorneys handle the stressful legal work while you focus on your life. Their knowledge can expedite the process, often achieving results faster than pro se attempts, getting you back to opportunities sooner.

Contact a Marathon Expungement Attorney For Help Sealing Your Criminal Record

Do not let a criminal record hold you back from the future you deserve. If you’re ready to clear your record and move forward with new opportunities, our team is here to help. A Marathon expungement lawyer at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC can guide you through every step of the expungement process, from obtaining your Certificate of Eligibility to securing final court approval. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and discover how expungement can restore your employment prospects and peace of mind.

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