Why do I have a criminal history record when the charges against me were dropped/dismissed?

When is my criminal history record sealed or expunged?

The state legislature has determined that Florida criminal history records are public unless the record is sealed or expunged. Refer to Section 943.053(3), Florida Statutes, which allows for public access to criminal history records. The term “criminal history information” is defined in accordance with the federal definition, as specified in Section 943.045(4), Florida Statutes. A criminal history record is generated when an individual is apprehended and fingerprinted. It encompasses the outcome of the arrest, whether it resulted in a conviction, acquittal, pretrial dismissal of charges, or any other resolution.

Once an order has been issued by the appropriate court and a certified copy of this order has been received by the state law enforcement agency (SLEA), it will be complied with in accordance with state statutes.