Criminal Defense
Since 1993
Since 1993
Sealing and Expunging: Because the Internet is Forever (and Nosy)
By: John Guidry
People are putting way too much personal information online these days. Now, this isn’t a big deal if you’re the one putting out information about yourself—at least you can control what the world sees. The problem is, our clerks of courts are now publishing arrest reports. Back in the day, viewing a police report would take some effort. The clerk of court must be contacted, a written request made, or someone would have to show up to the clerk’s counter to physically view the court file. Not anymore. Anyone on Earth can now see your worst moment, online, for free.1234
We have 67 counties in Florida, each with its own clerk of court. Advances in document managemen5t software have enabled numerous c6lerks to publish police reports over the internet. That means all the false accusations found in that police report will be read by a potentia7l employer, a potential partner, or a nosy neighbor.8
And that, my frie9nds, is why you should seal or expunge your criminal record in 2025.1011
The Reality of Your “Dropped” Case1213
Let’s say you have an arrest for battery domestic violence. Sure, it was dropped. Why would anyone look at a dropped case, right? Wrong.14 A 2025 survey15 found that 50% of Floridians don’t realize an arrest record stays public for life, even if charges are dismissed. Employers are taking a look at that dropped case if it’s available. They’re nosy. A recent survey revealed that 70% of respondents sought expungement specifically to secure or maintain employment. If it’s online, it’s a barrier.
The police report lists:
- Where you were born
- Your occupation
- Your height, weight, hair color, and eye color
- Your home address and phone number
- Your driver’s license number
The only thing truly protected is your social security number. Everything else—including every nasty, embarrassing lie an angry ex might have told the police—is available for the world to see in those “green squares” on the clerk’s website.
By the Numbers: Florida’s Criminal Records (2025)
The impact of public records isn’t just a “feeling”—it’s a statistical reality. Here is the breakdown of who is carrying these records and why it matters:
| Statistic | Figure |
| Number of Floridians with an arrest record | ~1 in 4 (Approx. 2.4 million people) |
| Estimated lost wages due to un-expunged records | $3.1 Billion annually in Florida |
| Percentage of jobs subject to background checks | Nearly 40% |
| Hiring complications for “cleared” records | 46% still see arrests in private screenings years later |
The Disproportionality Problem
It is a “sad but true” fact that the burden of public records doesn’t fall equally. Data from 2020 through 2025 shows:
- Black Floridians represent a disproportionate percentage of arrests. For example, Black girls account for 50% of those who make contact with law enforcement in schools, despite making up only 21% of the general population.
- In some counties, like Alachua, up to 82% of arrested girls were Black.
- These records follow individuals for a lifetime, reinforcing a “typical script” of systemic barriers to housing and high-paying jobs.
New for 2025: Automatic Sealing and Reform Efforts
As of 2025, Florida has introduced Automatic Sealing (F.S. § 943.0595). This is a “breath of fresh air,” but it is limited.
- Automatic Sealing: The FDLE now automatically seals records where charges were never filed or were dismissed as a “not guilty” verdict.
- The Catch: This does not necessarily clear you from private background check databases, and it doesn’t apply to “forcible felonies.”
- The “One-Time” Rule: You can still generally only expunge one record in your lifetime in Florida. A 2025 bill (SB 1000) aimed to expand this, but it was unfortunately voted down by lawmakers, keeping Florida one of the most restrictive states in the nation.
John’s Takeaways
- The Internet is Forever: Sealing or expunging is the only way to get the clerk to pull down those embarrassing “green squares.”
- Don’t Trust “Dropped”: Even if the State Attorney “blabbed” about dropping your charges, the arrest record exists until you take affirmative legal action.
- Private Databases are “Insane”: Even after a court order, private mugshot and background sites might still have your info. You need a lawyer who handles the follow-up reputation assistance.
- Wages are at Stake: Clearing a record can lead to an average $2/hour raise—that’s an extra $4,000 a year back in your pocket.
- The “Typical Script”: Nosy neighbors and HR directors will judge you based on the police report, which only tells the “untrue half” of the story.
The justice system is harsh, and the public nature of arrest reports is a modern-day scarlet letter. I’ve been helping Central Florida citizens “erase the case” since 1993. If you want to keep your past where it belongs—in the past—give me a call.
Ready to clear your name? Call John at (407) 423-1117.
About John Guidry II
John Guidry II is a seasoned criminal defense attorney and founder of the Law Firm of John P. Guidry II, P.A., located in downtown Orlando next to the Orange County Courthouse, where he has practiced for over 30 years. With more than three decades of experience defending clients throughout Central Florida since 1993, Guidry has successfully defended thousands of cases in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Brevard, Lake, and Volusia counties. He has built a reputation for his strategic approach to criminal defense, focusing on pretrial motions and case dismissals rather than jury trials.
Guidry earned both his Juris Doctorate and Master of Business Administration from St. Louis University in 1993. He is a member of the Florida Bar and the Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. His practice encompasses the full spectrum of Florida state criminal charges, with a particular emphasis on achieving favorable outcomes through thorough pretrial preparation and motion practice.
Beyond the courtroom, Guidry is a prolific legal educator who has authored over 400 articles on criminal defense topics. He shares his legal expertise through his popular YouTube channel, Instagram, and TikTok accounts, where he has built a substantial following of people eager to learn about the law. His educational content breaks down complex legal concepts into accessible information for the general public.
When not practicing law, Guidry enjoys tennis and pickleball, and loves to travel. Drawing from his background as a former recording studio owner and music video producer in the Orlando area, he brings a creative perspective to his legal practice and continues to apply his passion for video production to his educational content.