Remove an Eligible Arrest From Public Record
A past arrest can continue appearing on background checks long after the case has ended. In Florida, expungement may allow certain individuals to remove eligible criminal history records from public access.

Expungement is a legal process authorized under Florida law that removes qualifying records from public view while still allowing limited access by specific government agencies. For many individuals, this process can help protect future opportunities related to employment, housing, and education. Taylor Waldrop Pribisco assists clients in St. Augustine and throughout St. Johns County with evaluating eligibility and guiding them through the expungement process.
What Expungement Does in Florida
When a criminal record is expunged, it is removed from most public background searches. This means employers, landlords, and many private background check services generally cannot access the record.
Although expungement limits public access, certain government agencies may still access the record under specific circumstances allowed by law.
The Florida Expungement Process
Expungement typically begins with obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). This certificate confirms that the applicant qualifies to pursue expungement under Florida law.

The process usually includes several steps:
Reviewing the case outcome to confirm eligibility
Completing the FDLE application and required forms
Submitting fingerprints and supporting documentation
Filing a petition with the court requesting expungemen
Ensuring these documents are completed accurately can help prevent delays and allow the process to move forward smoothly.
Can an Arrest Be Expunged in Florida?
Many people ask whether an arrest can be removed from their record. In some cases, individuals may qualify to expunge an arrest if the case meets specific eligibility requirements under Florida law.

Determining whether expungement is possible usually requires reviewing the case outcome and the person's overall criminal history before beginning the application process.
Expungement vs. Record Sealing
Expungement and record sealing are related but different forms of record relief.

Expungement generally removes the record from public access, while record sealing restricts access but does not remove the record in the same way. Understanding which option applies often depends on the details of the case and eligibility requirements.
Expungement Representation in St. Augustine
Taylor Waldrop Pribisco assists individuals seeking record expungement in St. Augustine and throughout St. Johns County. Clients from nearby communities such as
Ponte Vedra, Palatka, Flagler Beach, and
Palm Coast often seek guidance when beginning the process of clearing an arrest record.
Start the Expungement Process
If you are interested in clearing an arrest record in Florida, the first step is determining whether your case qualifies for expungement. Speaking with an expungement lawyer can help you review eligibility, prepare the required documents, and begin the formal application process.
