If you’re a first-time offender in Florida, your criminal record can create significant barriers for you in the job market. Most employers usually run routine background checks before hiring or promoting you. Hence, your record could resurface to threaten your career now or in the future.
But your past should not keep you from taking control of your life. Fortunately, Florida law offers options where you can clear your records so you can start over with a clean slate.
Sealing your criminal records
One of your options to protect yourself from public scrutiny is to seal your criminal records. Record sealing is a legal process where public access to your criminal history is restricted and limited only to those who are on a strict need-to-know basis.
If you’re currently employed, this means you can pursue big promotions without fear of your past showing up in background checks. When applying for new positions, this means that you can confidently compete with your fellow applicants without fear of discrimination or disadvantage.
However, it is important to note that sealed records remain accessible to some government agencies and law enforcement. Hence, if you are planning to enter industries that require licenses and security clearances then sealing your records might not be enough.
Expunging your records from public view
If sealing your records is not enough to get you into a regulated field, then expungement may be another option for you. Expungement is a legal process to clear your records by removing it from public view completely.
An expunged record treats your arrest or conviction as if it never occurred. It is as close to erasing your past as the law allows. Whether you are staying at your current work or exploring new opportunities, an expunged record gives you the broadest employment protection possible.
But your records are not going to clear themselves on their own. Now that you understand that you have options in clearing your records, you must take the next step to secure your career.
Protect your career today
Don’t let your first offense define the rest of your life. Taking action now to clear your records can open doors for better employment opportunities for you.
Although the process of record clearing may be tedious, an experienced professional can help you navigate how to protect your professional future. Consider consulting with qualified legal counsel to explore your options and safeguard your career today.