A felony record doesn’t just stay in the past—it can follow you for years, affecting where you work, where you live, and even your rights. In Florida, some felony charges may be removed from public view, but others remain permanent. The difference often depends on whether the case resulted in a conviction or if charges were dropped. Clearing a record isn’t automatic, and the process comes with strict requirements. If you’re looking for a fresh start, it’s important to know what options exist and whether you qualify to have your record sealed or expunged.
Understanding Florida’s Felony Record Laws
In Florida, a felony conviction does not disappear over time. Unlike some states where certain records automatically clear after a set number of years, Florida requires individuals to take legal steps to remove eligible records. The two primary options are sealing and expungement. Sealing a record restricts access, meaning most employers, landlords, and the public won’t see it. Expungement removes it from public view entirely, with limited exceptions for law enforcement and government agencies.
However, not everyone qualifies. Only cases that did not result in a conviction—such as charges dismissed by the court, dropped by the prosecutor, or resolved with a withhold of adjudication—may be eligible. Even then, Florida law allows only one sealing or expungement in a lifetime, with very few exceptions. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) oversees the process, and court approval is required.
Felonies That Cannot Be Removed
Florida law does not allow every felony to be sealed or expunged. Some charges remain on your record permanently, regardless of how much time has passed. If you were convicted of a felony—meaning you were found guilty or pled guilty/no contest—the record cannot be removed. Only cases that did not result in a conviction may qualify.
Certain offenses are never eligible for sealing or expungement, even if the charges were dropped or adjudication was withheld. These include:
- Violent crimes, such as murder, manslaughter, and aggravated assault
- Sex crimes, including sexual battery, child pornography, and human trafficking
- Crimes against children, such as child abuse and kidnapping
- Drug trafficking and other serious drug offenses
- Robbery, burglary, and arson
If your case involves any of these offenses, your record will remain public. However, if your charge does not fall into these categories and you were not convicted, removal may still be possible.
Felonies That May Be Eligible for Removal
Not all felony records are permanent. In Florida, some felonies may be sealed or expunged if they meet specific requirements. The most important factor is whether you were convicted. If you were found guilty or pled guilty/no contest, the record cannot be removed. However, if your case was dismissed, dropped, or resulted in a withhold of adjudication, you may qualify.
Felonies that may be eligible include:
- Non-violent drug offenses, such as possession of a controlled substance
- Property crimes, including grand theft and fraud (if adjudication was withheld)
- White-collar crimes, such as forgery or embezzlement (without a conviction)
- Certain juvenile offenses, depending on the circumstances
Florida law allows only one record sealing or expungement in a lifetime, with few exceptions. The process involves submitting an application to the FDLE, obtaining court approval, and meeting all eligibility requirements. If successful, your record will no longer be visible to most employers and the public.
How We Can Help
At Central Justice, we understand how a felony record can limit opportunities and make it harder to move forward. Florida’s laws on record sealing and expungement are strict, but for those who qualify, clearing a record can make a real difference. Our team helps clients determine eligibility, gather necessary documentation, and navigate the legal steps required for record removal. Whether your case was dismissed, dropped, or resulted in a withhold of adjudication, we provide guidance to help you take advantage of available legal options.
Take the Next Step Toward a Clean Record
If you’re unsure whether your felony record can be sealed or expunged, Central Justice can help. Contact us today to discuss your case and explore your options for clearing your record and moving forward with confidence.
