I want an Expungement of my Criminal Record, What Should I do?
Expungements are important because they clear records assisting folks in seeking employment, passing background checks, developing and maintaining future relationships and other activities of that nature. The Clearwater expungement attorneys of Hackworth Law are experienced in providing expungement services to our clients. Additionally, we will assist in removing your mugshot from public websites advertising your mugshot to the internet for a profit.
Florida Statutes 943.0585 and 943.059 state the requirements that must be met to have an adult criminal history record sealed or expunged. Unfortunately, the Statutes are extremely confusing and longwinded. Many times, the Tampa criminal defense attorneys of Hackworth Law are asked why someone needs to hire an attorney to get an expungement. The simple answer is they have done it before and will ensure it is done right the first time. Unfortunately, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (“FDLE”) is extremely backed up and is delaying expungments by up to six months. In light of this delay, it is critical to ensure they are prepared and processed initially correctly to avoid any unnecessary delay.
The requirements for receiving an expungement of criminal records include submitting an application to the FDLE for a certificate of eligibility. However, receiving a certificate of eligibility does not mean that your criminal record has been expunged. The certificate means that you are statutorily eligible to obtain an expungement. The Clearwater attorneys of Hackworth Law have extensive experience and can answer your specific questions to make sure that your record is properly expunged.