Tampa, FL Certificate of Disposition
Contents
What is a Certificate of Disposition in Tampa, FL?
You’re here because you need information on certificates of disposition in Tampa, Florida. Maybe you’re dealing with a criminal record. – Or an employer asked for disposition details during a background check. Whatever the reason, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide. A certificate of disposition is an official document from the court. – It provides details on the final outcome or disposition of a criminal case. This includes information like charges, pleas, convictions, sentences, and more. In Tampa, you’ll need to request this certificate from the clerk of the circuit court.
Why Do You Need It?
There are several key reasons why you may require a Tampa certificate of disposition:
- Sealing or expunging your criminal record
- Applying for jobs, licenses, or certificates
- Dealing with background checks
- Immigration matters
- Firearm purchases
- Proving your innocence
Without an official disposition certificate, you can’t verify the outcome of prior cases. Employers and agencies are left in the dark about your record. Getting this document ensures transparency and accuracy.
How to Obtain It
The process is straightforward but requires attention to detail:
- Determine the Case Number(s)
- Locate the case or arrest number(s) for the record(s) you need
- These should be on any paperwork from the arrest or court proceedings
- Contact the Clerk’s Office
- The Hillsborough County Clerk of Court handles disposition certificates
- You can request in person, by mail, or online
- Provide Required Information
- Your full legal name
- Case or arrest number(s)
- Contact information
- Payment for fees
- Wait for Processing
- Processing times can vary based on current workload
- Expect to wait up to several weeks
- Pick Up or Receive Document
- For in-person requests, you’ll pick it up at the clerk’s office
- Mailed requests will be sent to the address provided
Be prepared to pay fees for document retrieval and certification. Having the right case details is crucial for a smooth process.
Potential Roadblocks
Even with the proper procedures, you may face a few common hurdles:
- Missing Case Numbers
- If you don’t have the numbers, the clerk can’t access the records
- You may need to request a records search first
- Lengthy Processing Times
- High demand can mean long wait times of months
- Build in plenty of time if you’re on a deadline
- Inability to Locate Records
- Very old cases may have purged records
- Or records could be missing due to administrative errors
- Unexpected Fees
- Fees can add up for multiple records or extra services
- Confirm total costs before submitting your request
Patience and diligence help overcome these obstacles. Don’t hesitate to follow up if you hit snags.
Clearing Up Your Record
For many, getting a certificate of disposition is step one. The next goal is clearing up their criminal record entirely.
Two main options exist in Florida: sealing and expungement.
Record Sealing
Sealing doesn’t destroy your record, but it does remove it from public view. Only certain agencies can access sealed records.To seal an arrest or case in Tampa, you must:
- Obtain a certificate of eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE)
- Complete a petition to seal
- Submit the petition, disposition certificate, and fees to the clerk
Eligibility requirements include:
- No convictions in the case you’re sealing
- No other Florida convictions or certain disqualifying offenses
| Eligible for Sealing | Ineligible for Sealing |
|---|---|
| Most misdemeanors | Felonies |
| Some criminal traffic offenses | Violent crimes |
| Domestic violence | |
| Sexual offenses |
The sealing process can take 6-12 months from start to finish.
Record Expungement
Expungement is more desirable as it destroys your criminal record. But it’s also more difficult to qualify for.
To expunge an arrest or case in Tampa, the steps are:
- Obtain a certificate of expunction eligibility from FDLE
- Complete a petition to expunge
- Submit petition, disposition certificate, and fees to the clerk
Eligibility hinges on:
- The charges being dropped, dismissed, or an acquittal
- No other convictions or disqualifying offenses
- No prior sealed or expunged records in Florida
| Eligible for Expungement | Ineligible for Expungement |
|---|---|
| Charges dismissed/dropped | Convictions |
| Acquittals | Certain violent felonies |
| Some juvenile records | Prior sealing/expungement |
Expungement processing can take over a year in some cases.Both sealing and expungement provide a fresh start. – But the processes are document-intensive and complex. Consulting an experienced attorney is highly recommended.
When You Need Legal Expertise
Dealing with criminal records is tricky one misstep can derail your efforts. That’s where legal counsel becomes invaluable. An attorney ensures you:
- Understand your eligibility for sealing or expungement
- Complete and file paperwork properly
- Comply with all requirements
- Represent you if issues arise
- Increase chances of success
At Spodek Law Group, our Tampa criminal lawyers have:
- Decades of combined experience
- A track record of securing record clearances
- Extensive knowledge of Florida laws and procedures
- A client-focused approach
We offer affordable flat fees for sealing and expungement services. But our work goes far beyond just paperwork. – We pursue the best possible outcome for your unique situation. Don’t jeopardize your future by attempting this process alone. Our firm provides the legal muscle and guidance you need. Contact us today for a free consultation on clearing your record.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Tampa certificates of disposition:
Q: How far back do the records go?
A: The clerk’s office maintains records indefinitely. However, very old cases may have missing or destroyed files. Expect to only find records from the past 20-30 years easily.
Q: What if I need records from another county?
A: You’ll need to contact that county’s clerk of court directly. Procedures and fees may differ across jurisdictions.
Q: Can I request the certificate online or by mail?
A: Yes, the Hillsborough clerk allows requests by mail or through their online portal. But processing times are longer than in-person requests.
Q: Do I need a disposition certificate for non-criminal cases?
A: No, disposition certificates only cover criminal arrests and charges. For other case types, request a different document from the clerk.
Q: Someone else was arrested with me, can I get their information?
A: No, you can only request disposition details related to yourself. Information on co-defendants requires their consent.
Q: How much does a certificate cost?
A: Fees vary but expect to pay $5-$10 per document requested. Additional fees apply for certification, retrieval, or processing.
Q: My case was dismissed, do I still need the certificate?
A: Yes, you’ll need the official disposition to verify the dismissal. This document is required for sealing or expunging the record.Don’t see your question answered here? Reach out to our office for personalized assistance. We’re always happy to address your specific concerns.
A Second Chance Starts Here
For too many in Tampa, a run-in with the law becomes a permanent stain. Employment, housing, finances – all are impacted by that record. But it doesn’t have to be that way.By taking the proper steps, you can obtain your official records. And use those dispositions to clear your name for good. Sealing or expungement provides the second chance you deserve .But the processes are complex mazes to navigate alone. Missteps can derail your efforts and cost you time and money. Spodek Law Group has the experience to steer you correctly.
Our Tampa criminal lawyers have helped countless clients:
- Understand their eligibility for sealing or expungement
- Compile and file paperwork flawlessly
- Resolve any issues or roadblocks
- Secure the fresh start they need to move forward
We’re invested in your success from start to finish. You’re not just another case to us. You are our top priority. When your future is at stake, don’t take chances with your record. Put decades of proven legal expertise in your corner. Contact Spodek Law Group today for your free case evaluation.