Carrying a drug conviction in Florida can have a significant impact on your life, making it difficult to secure employment, housing, and even professional licenses. But what if you could shed the burden of this past mistake and move forward with a clean slate? Fortunately, in some cases, expungement may be an option for those seeking to leave their drug convictions behind.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Not All Convictions Qualify:
- Felony drug convictions are not eligible for expungement in Florida. This includes charges like trafficking, manufacturing, and possession of certain controlled substances.
- However, some misdemeanors can be expunged. This might include possession of small amounts of marijuana or drug paraphernalia under certain circumstances.
- Arrests that did not result in convictions may also be eligible for expungement.
2. Understanding the Process:
- The first step is to determine if your conviction qualifies. Consulting with an attorney experienced in expungement like David M. Lamos is crucial.
- If eligible, you’ll need to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). This requires gathering documentation and completing an application.
- Once you have the certificate, you can petition the court for expungement. This might involve attending a hearing and presenting your case to the judge.
3. Key Considerations:
- The expungement process can be complex and time-consuming. Consider hiring David M. Lamos to ensure you follow the proper procedures.
- Expungement does not erase your conviction. Law enforcement and some government agencies may still have access to the record.
- Sealing a record, while not the same as expungement, can restrict access to your conviction for many purposes.
By understanding your options and taking action, you can move forward toward a brighter future free from the limitations of a past drug conviction.
