Expungement is sometimes referred to as “sealing” or “setting aside” a conviction, as well as “expunction.” In any case, the process is the same—the laws allow certain arrests and convictions to be hidden from view, whether from law enforcement, employers, or others. However, DUI and DWI arrests may still be used as proof of prior conviction. This means that although an expungement can help your career opportunities and other situations, it does not actually remove the offense from your record.

In Florida, DUI arrests may only be expunged in situations where the charges were eventually dismissed in court, dropped, unfiled, or found not guilty. In addition, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement may still disclose the existence of expunged records for individuals who are applying for scholarships, jobs, and similar circumstances. They may not, however, divulge the contents of those records. Because of these strict laws, it is imperative for individuals to retain a dedicated legal professional for assistance.