Expungements
AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE & DEDICATED REPRESENTATION
Our Panama City Firm Has Much to Offer. Learn Why People Choose Shepard Law.
Criminal Defense
Expungements
- Assault
- Battery
- Bulgary
- Cyber Crimes
- Domestic Violence
- Drug Crimes
- DUI
- Juvenile Crimes
- Misdemeanors
- Theft Crimes
- Robbery
- Violation of Probation
- Violent Crimes
- White Collar Crimes
No Charges Aggravated Assault
ALLEGATION: Client arrested for drive-by shooting and was facing the possibility of a minimum mandatory 15 year prison sentence under Florida’s 10-20-Life Law. RESULT: After consulting with with prosecutors and law enforcement NO CHARGES WERE FILED.
Negotiated Plea DUI Manslaughter
ALLEGATION: Client charged with DUI Manslaughter. Client faced up to 15 years prison and a permanent loss of his drivers’ license. RESULT: Client entered negotiated plea to probation and is eligible to drive with a hardship license.
Not Convicted Sexual Battery
ALLEGATION: Client who holds a professional certification and license with the State of Florida was accused of Sexual Battery with the possibility of 15 years prison and mandatory “Sexual Offender” designation. Arrest was reported in the Panama City News Herald. RESULT: Charge reduced without consent of victim to simple battery (misdemeanor). Client NOT CONVICTED of any criminal offense and not designated a Sexual Offender. Client able to return to work without loss of professional certification and license
Client NOT CONVICTED Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation for a second time by failing to report (“absconding”), committing a new crime of Battery, not completing DUI school and failing to complete court ordered community service hours.
Not Convicted Violation of Probation
ALLEGATION: Client violated probation by failing to report (“absconding”) and committing a new felony of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Forgery. Client was on probation for 7 counts of Obtaining a Controlled Substance by Fraud, 6 counts of Forgery, and 6 counts of Criminal Use of Personal Identification.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the expungement process take in Florida?
Typically six months to one year from start to finish. The timeline depends on the court’s schedule and agency processing times. Shepard Law monitors your case throughout and keeps you updated.
Will my expunged record show up on a background check?
After expungement, the record will not appear on standard public background checks. Certain government agencies and law enforcement may still access it through court order. We ensure every required agency complies with the expungement order.
Can I expunge multiple charges in Florida?
Florida law generally allows only one expungement per lifetime, and typically for charges arising from a single incident or episode. If multiple charges arose from the same arrest, they may be eligible together. Every case requires individual assessment.
What if my petition is denied?
We will review the reason for denial, advise on your options, and determine whether an appeal or reapplication is available. Denial is not always final.
Does expungement restore all my rights?
Expungement restores the right to deny the arrest in most circumstances and removes it from public background checks. Some rights — such as certain professional licenses or federal privileges — may still be subject to restrictions. We will advise you specifically on what to expect in your case.
Florida Expungement Attorney
Panama City | Clear Your Record and Start Fresh
A criminal record follows you. It shows up on background checks, affects your ability to rent an apartment, apply for jobs, and in some cases, obtain professional licenses. But in Florida, an arrest or charge that did not result in a conviction does not have to define your future.
Rusty Shepard spent years as an Assistant State Attorney before dedicating his practice to criminal defense in Bay County. He understands the long-term damage a criminal record causes — and he knows how to navigate Florida’s expungement and sealing process to give his clients the fresh start they deserve.
Sealing vs Expungement — What Is the Difference?
Florida law provides two distinct remedies for criminal records. Understanding which one applies to your situation is the first step.
- Sealing (Florida Statute § 943.059) — The record is made confidential and removed from public view. It is not destroyed. Most employers conducting standard background checks will not be able to see it. In most circumstances, you can legally deny or fail to acknowledge the arrest.
- Expungement (Florida Statute § 943.0585) — The more comprehensive remedy. The record is physically destroyed by all agencies involved — the arresting agency, the clerk of court, and others. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement retains a confidential copy accessible only by court order. In most circumstances, you can legally deny the arrest even occurred.
Most people are eligible for sealing, not expungement. Expungement is available only where charges were dismissed, acquitted, or never filed. Florida allows only one expungement or sealing per lifetime.
Who Is Eligible for Expungement or Sealing in Florida?
Eligibility is determined by specific criteria under Florida law. A single disqualifying factor results in denial. You may be eligible if:
- The case was dismissed, acquitted, or charges were never filed — OR — you successfully completed a court-approved diversion programme
- You have never been adjudicated guilty (formally convicted) of any criminal offense in any state or federal jurisdiction
- You have never previously had a criminal record sealed or expunged in Florida
- The specific charge is not on Florida’s statutory list of ineligible offenses
offenses that can never be sealed or expunged in Florida include domestic violence, child abuse, sexual offenses, murder, manslaughter, robbery, and arson. This is not an exhaustive list — a thorough review of your record and charges is essential before assuming eligibility.
The Expungement Process in Florida — Step by Step
Step 1 — Eligibility assessment: Shepard Law reviews your record, the charges, and the outcome to confirm eligibility
Step 2 — FDLE application: We prepare and submit the Certificate of Eligibility application to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Step 3 — Petition to court: Once the Certificate is received, we file a petition with the court and serve it on the State Attorney’s Office
Step 4 — Judge’s review: The judge reviews the petition. If approved, a court order is issued
Step 5 — Agency notification: All relevant agencies — arresting agency, clerk of court, prosecutors — are notified and required to seal or destroy the record
The full process typically takes six months to one year. Shepard Law manages every step, keeps you informed, and handles all communication with the court and agencies on your behalf.
Benefits of a Successful Expungement or Sealing
- In most situations, you can legally deny or fail to acknowledge the arrest on job applications, housing applications, and licensing applications
- The record will not appear on standard public background checks
- Improved access to employment, housing, and educational opportunities
- Restoration of reputation and peace of mind
- Reduced barriers to professional licencing
Ready to clear your record in Panama City or Bay County? Call Shepard Law at (850) 290-2505 for a free consultation. Available 24/7.
What Sets Shepard Law Apart?
Your case is our priority. We aim for the best outcome.
We understand the complexities of the legal system and the impact on your life. Our focus is on securing your future.
CLIENT FEEDBACK
Our clients’ voices matter. Read about real cases and the positive outcomes achieved with our legal guidance.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE CONSULTATION
At Shepard Law, we’re always ready to take your call! Give us a call at (850) 290-2505 or fill out the form below to contact one of our team members.
LINKS
Home
Our Team
Firm Overview
Criminal Defense
Reviews
Blog
Contact Us
FOLLOW US