A criminal conviction represents a big regret for many people in Florida who may, many years ago, have run into trouble with the law. Even though they may have moved past it a long time ago, it continues to haunt them in the form of a criminal record — something that can come to the fore when they apply for employment or housing.
As a result, a lot of people wish that there was a way to get rid of this black mark on their record. While it is not possible for every conviction and every situation, it might be possible to have your record sealed or your conviction expunged. Speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney can make this process less intimidating.
The effects of a conviction, even one that is relatively minor, can be devastating. A criminal conviction could have a negative impact your ability to:
- Get a good job
- Obtain affordable housing
- Apply for loans, including student assistance
- Be accepted to college
While expungement and sealing a record are similar, there are some key differences. When a record is sealed, it is generally not accessible to the public, including employers. It might take a court order in order to view the contents of the record. An expungement, however, completely removes the conviction, making it appear as if it never happened in the first place.
These can be complex matters, and it is often in your interest to work with a criminal defense lawyer who knows the justice system well when you are seeking relief from your criminal record.
For more information about our practice, please visit our Boca Raton Record Sealing and Expungement page.
