A juvenile criminal record can cast a long shadow over a young person’s future if not handled properly. Even though juvenile court is supposed to focus on rehabilitation, a record can still affect college admissions, job opportunities, housing applications, and even access to professional licenses. If your child has been arrested or adjudicated delinquent, it’s critical to understand the steps you can take to protect their future opportunities.
Understanding Juvenile Records in Florida
In Florida, juvenile records are generally confidential, but “confidential” doesn’t mean “sealed” or “erased.” Certain entities—such as law enforcement agencies, schools, and some employers—may still access juvenile records under specific circumstances. Moreover, juvenile records can sometimes be used against individuals later in life during sentencing for future offenses.
Common Misconceptions About Juvenile Records
- Myth: Juvenile records automatically disappear when a child turns 18.
- Fact: Juvenile records do not automatically vanish. In many cases, they remain accessible unless specific legal actions are taken to seal or expunge them.
- Myth: Employers and colleges can’t see juvenile records.
- Fact: Certain background checks—especially for government jobs or professional licenses—may reveal juvenile histories.
Sealing and Expunging Juvenile Records
Automatic Expungement for Certain Cases
Florida law provides for the automatic expungement of juvenile records under limited circumstances—usually after the individual turns 24 (or 26 for more serious offenses). However, automatic expungement won’t happen if the minor was adjudicated delinquent (the juvenile equivalent of a conviction) for certain serious offenses like felonies or violent crimes.
Early Expungement Options
In some cases, you can apply for early expungement before age 24 if:
- The charges were dismissed
- The minor completed a diversion program
- The court withheld adjudication and other eligibility criteria are met
Early expungement can help eliminate the record from public access and allow your child to move forward without the stigma of a criminal past.
How a Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help
At Reynoso Erickson Trial Law, P.A., our juvenile defense team not only fights to resolve current charges but also works proactively to minimize long-term damage to your child’s future. Our services include:
- Negotiating for dismissal of charges to allow for easier expungement
- Advocating for diversion programs that result in case dismissal
- Filing petitions to seal or expunge juvenile records as early as possible
- Guiding families through every step of the sealing and expungement process
Why Sealing or Expunging a Record Matters
Having a clean slate matters. Protecting your child’s record can:
- Improve chances of acceptance to colleges and universities
- Open doors to employment opportunities that require background checks
- Preserve eligibility for professional licenses and government jobs
- Reduce discrimination in housing applications
- Help protect their reputation and mental health
Special Considerations for Serious Juvenile Offenses
If your child was adjudicated delinquent for a felony or violent crime, expungement may be more difficult but not impossible. Depending on the case specifics, there may still be options for sealing records, seeking clemency, or arguing for post-conviction relief that can clear the path toward a better future.
Preventative Strategies for Juvenile Defense
The best way to protect your child’s record is to prevent a conviction or adjudication from happening at all. Early intervention by an experienced juvenile defense attorney can result in:
- Case dismissals
- Negotiated plea deals that avoid adjudication
- Participation in diversion programs
- Favorable sentencing agreements that minimize the consequences
Protect Your Child’s Future Today
Your child’s future is too important to leave to chance. Whether you’re dealing with pending charges or trying to clean up an existing record, the right legal strategy can make all the difference. Contact a skilled Miami juvenile criminal defense attorney at Reynoso Erickson Trial Law, P.A. We’re here to fight for your child’s rights, future, and second chance at success.