Sarasota Expungement Lawyer

If you have been charged with or convicted of a crime and want to put the past behind you, you may need the help of an expungement lawyer in Sarasota if you hope to move forward with your life.

When you’ve been arrested or found guilty of a crime, it remains on your criminal record. This means that when you apply for a new job, affordable housing, federal student loans, or otherwise need to submit a background check, your record will reflect that history. 

Fortunately, Michael Fayard, Attorney at Law may have the answers you’ve been looking for. You may be able to expunge your record and put the past in the past, depending on the circumstance of your case. A qualified Sarasota expungement lawyer could help you get through the expungement process so you can finally clear your record and name. 

What Crimes Can Be Expunged in Florida?

Seeking an expungement could be the best way to move forward with your life without the mistakes of the past holding you back. There are very specific circumstances in which you can obtain an expunction in Sarasota. The first is if you were ultimately found not guilty of the charges against you. If you were acquitted, your record can be expunged ten years after the record has been sealed. 

There are many different types of crimes that are eligible for expunction. It would be easier to discuss which types of crimes are not eligible for expungement. Some of the most common crimes that are not able to be expunged include:

  • Homicide
  • Aggravated assault
  • Arson
  • Manslaughter
  • Sexual battery
  • Terrorism
  • Voyeurism
  • Trafficking controlled substances
  • Kidnapping

If you have previously been convicted of these crimes, you will not be able to get your record sealed or expunged. But if you are currently facing any of these charges, a Sarasota criminal defense lawyer may be able to help you avoid a conviction. 

What to Expect from the Expunction Process

If you hope to have your record expunged, you must petition the court where you faced the charges in order to do so. Your lawyer can assist you in filing the application. If the courts accept, you may be issued a certificate of eligibility

The expungement process can take anywhere between five and seven months from the date of your petition, and there is no guarantee the courts will grant your petition. 

If you are unsure whether you qualify for an expunction, or if you have further questions regarding the expungement process, you can discuss the details of your case with your expungement lawyer in Sarasota. 

Get in Touch with an Expungement Lawyer in Sarasota

If you are interested in learning more about what it takes to expunge your criminal record, reach out to respected Sarasota expungement lawyer Michael Fayard, Attorney at Law. You can schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation by submitting the convenient contact form included below or giving the office a call at 941-306-1310.