What is the difference between having a record sealed and having a record expunged?
When a record is sealed, the public will not have access to it and it will not show up on any background check. The court will enter an order directing law enforcement agencies to remove the record from their computer systems and the file is literally placed in an envelope and sealed with tape that says it is not to be opened without a court order. The record will not, however, be physically destroyed. Despite being hidden from the public, the FDLE will reveal the existence of a sealed record to certain governmental or related entities if the individual is applying to them for employment or a professional license. Those entities are: A law enforcement agency The Department of Children and Family Services The Department of Juvenile Justice A contractor or licensee dealing with children The Department of Education Any public school Any private school The Florida Bar When a record is expunged it is physically destroyed and it will not show up on any background check. Those entities which
