Stephano G

Response from owner

The first question I ask anyone that is looking to Seal or Expunge their record is whether the person has ANY prior record. The reason is that if you are convicted of a prior criminal act, no matter when or where it occurred, you are disqualified from sealing or Expunging your record. People often get upset when call me and the 1st question I ask is "Do you have any prior record or arrests?" The person calling will say "I don;t care about those, I only want to Seal this specific arrest." I then have to explain that they may not be eligible. In my contracts I have the following language: Client acknowledges being informed that if Client has previously been adjudicated guilty or convicted of any criminal offense, Client is not eligible to seal or expunge his criminal record. Client states that he is eligible for such relief. Client acknowledges that Client has been informed that only law enforcement agencies get a copy of the order sealing or expunging the record. Background search companies may have access to the criminal record prior to the sealing/expunging and the criminal record may still appear on a background check. The fee DOES NOT include the Attorney contacting these companies in order to get them to remove the record. Client has been informed certain agencies/employers have access to the sealed/expunged record. Fee only includes one (1) court appearance, if necessary, to argue the Petition to Seal/Expunge. Any other court appearances are billed at $500.00 per court date to be paid in advance. The only other fees typically associated with the sealing/expunging is the FDLE background check (currently $75.00) and the clerk’s filing fee (currently $42.00 - $100.00 depending on the county). (NOT included in fee) Client has been informed that it is within a court’s discretion whether to grant or deny the Petition to Seal or Expunge. Attorney makes NO GUARANTEE as to the outcome whether the record will be sealed or expunged. This is because I have no way to know or check a person's prior record. If they tell me that they have no record or convictions, I have to rely on the information given to me. if they do have a conviction, they are not eligible and it is a quick and easy consultation. I was still able to get his charge dismissed, but due to facts outside my control, this person was not eligible to Expunge the case I got dismissed.

June 7, 2024