The Impact of Criminal Records on Employment and How to Expunge Them

Jun 10, 2025 | Blog

The Impact of Criminal Records on Employment and How to Expunge Them

Sealing your record is the first step toward a second chance.
-Roy Kahn

A criminal record can have lasting effects on employment opportunities, making it difficult to secure jobs, professional licenses, or even housing. Fortunately, Florida law provides options for expunging or sealing criminal records, giving individuals a fresh start.

How a Criminal Record Affects Employment

  1. Background Checks – Most employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record can limit job opportunities.
  2. Loss of Professional Licenses – Certain professions, such as healthcare and finance, may deny licenses to individuals with criminal convictions.
  3. Employment Discrimination – While some laws protect against discrimination, many private employers hesitate to hire individuals with criminal records.
  4. Limited Career Advancement – A criminal past can affect promotions and professional growth.

Expungement and Record Sealing in Florida

Under Florida Statutes §943.0585, expungement allows for the complete removal of criminal records, while record sealing restricts public access to them. Not all offenses qualify, but many first-time offenses and dismissed cases are eligible.

Steps to Expunge or Seal a Criminal Record:

  1. Determine Eligibility – An attorney can review your case to determine if you qualify.
  2. File an Application – Submit a request to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
  3. Obtain a Certificate of Eligibility – Once approved, this certificate allows the court to proceed with expungement or sealing.
  4. Court Petition – Your attorney will file a petition with the court to finalize the process.

Legal Considerations

Expunging or sealing a record does not restore all rights, such as firearm ownership, in certain cases. Additionally, some government agencies and law enforcement may still access sealed records.

“Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.” – Oscar Wilde

A Florida resident successfully had his misdemeanor charges sealed, allowing him to pass a background check and secure a high-paying job. His case highlights how proper legal action can remove past mistakes from limiting future success.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Criminal records can negatively impact employment, professional licenses, and career growth.
  2. Florida law allows expungement and record sealing for eligible offenses.
  3. A legal process must be followed to clear your record successfully.
  4. Hiring an attorney can increase the chances of successfully expunging or sealing a record.

If you are struggling with employment due to a criminal record, contact Roy Kahn today to explore your legal options.

Call 305-358-7400 today for a consultation.