Expungements
AGGRESSIVE DEFENSE & DEDICATED REPRESENTATION
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No Charges Filed
Aggravated Assault
Charge: Aggravated assault arising from an alleged drive-by shooting
Court: Bay County
Outcome: The client faced the possibility of a lengthy mandatory prison sentence. Following discussions with prosecutors and law enforcement, no charges were filed.
Negotiated Plea
DUI Manslaughter
Charge: DUI manslaughter
Court: Bay County
Outcome: The client faced up to 15 years in prison and permanent loss of driving privileges. The matter was resolved by negotiated plea to probation, with eligibility for a hardship license.
Not Convicted
Sexual Battery
Charge: Sexual battery
Court: Bay County
Outcome: The client, who holds a professional license in Florida, faced up to 15 years in prison and mandatory sex offender designation. The charge was reduced, over the objection of the complainant, to simple battery, a misdemeanor. The client was not convicted of any criminal offense, was not designated a sex offender, and returned to work with their professional license intact.
Not Convicted
Violation of Probation
Charge: Violation of probation, second violation. Alleged failure to report, a new battery offense, failure to complete DUI school, and failure to complete court ordered community service.
Court: Bay County
Outcome: The client was not convicted.
Not Convicted
Violation of Probation
Charge: Violation of probation. Alleged failure to report and a new felony offense of obtaining a controlled substance by forgery, while serving probation for multiple counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud, forgery, and criminal use of personal identification.
Court: Bay County
Outcome: The client was not convicted.
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 program
- 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
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.
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.
Highly Recommended
“This firm got my case dismissed and I didn’t have to spend a single day in court.”
– King R.
Personable and understanding
“Rusty is very personable and accommodating. He made himself available on short notice and met with me after hours. He told me not to worry and got everything dismissed in court this morning! Thank you Rusty and Lisa!!!”
– Lauren
Sweetest, kindest, most Professional #1
“Mr. Shepard and his staff are amazing! They went above and beyond to help me. I would not want anyone else on my team! I am young and despite that, he made sure that the judge saw me as a person and not just a young person. He and his office even spent extra time with me and attended to every single thousand question that I had. They could not get a better rating 10 stars!!”
– Jessica
Absolutely Recommend
“Shepard Law is truly one of a kind!!! Their team of attorneys and support staff knows criminal law inside and out. They will take a case to trial with no fear and are a force to be seen in the courtroom!!!! They are compassionate and make their clients feel supported every single step of the way. They are flexible with payment options, which allows everyone to be able to receive TOP QUALITY representation. I would absolutely recommend Shepard Law to any of my friends or family members without hesitation.”
– Vanessa M.
Under a time line!!!
“My wife and I found out on a Monday that we needed a Defense Attorney on Tuesday for a family situation. I called the office and Megan quickly contacted Rusty and he reassured us that he would be at court on Tuesday and he would take care of everything. Those words were the most comforting we’ve heard as this came up not long after Hurricane Michael. Rusty and his office has no idea how much he helped us and how much we appreciate their quick response. Thank you will never cover how much you guys mean to us.”
– Craig E.
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.