Expungement in Florida offers a second chance for those with criminal records. It allows individuals to legally seal or erase certain charges from their records, making it inaccessible to most employers, landlords, and others who perform background checks. You may mutter to yourself, “Okay, how much does expungement cost in florida?” Let’s learn about it further.
Breaking Down the Filing Costs

One of the primary costs involved in expunging your record is the filing fee. In Florida, the filing fee typically falls between $75 and $150. This fee is required to submit your petition to the court for review. The cost may vary slightly depending on the county where you file, but it’s generally the same across the state.
Attorney Fees: Do You Need One?
While you’re not legally required to hire an attorney for expungement, it’s highly recommended. Legal professionals can help you navigate the paperwork, ensure the accuracy of your petition, and represent you if your case goes to court. If you’re asking, “Okay, how much does expungement cost in Florida?” the biggest variable will likely be the attorney fees.
Attorney fees for expungement in Florida generally range from $500 to $2,000. Some lawyers offer flat fees for handling the expungement process, while others charge hourly. Keep in mind that if your case is complex or requires multiple motions or court hearings, the cost will be on the higher end of that range.
Additional Expenses You Might Face

Besides the filing and legal fees, there are other potential costs that might come up during the expungement process. For example, one common requirement is fingerprinting, which typically costs around $50 to $75. This is a mandatory part of the expungement process, and it’s something you should budget for in addition to the other fees. In some cases, you may also need to obtain certified court records to support your petition, which can carry an additional fee of a few dollars per document. While these costs are not huge, they can add up when combined with other fees involved.
Can You Lower the Costs?
If the cost of expungement is a concern, there are a few ways to potentially reduce your expenses. If you meet certain income requirements, you might qualify for legal assistance from nonprofit organizations that provide services at a reduced rate or even for free. These services can help ease the burden of attorney fees.
Why Expungement Is Worth the Investment

Despite the upfront costs, the benefits of expungement far outweigh the initial financial investment. A cleared criminal record can open doors to better job opportunities, improve your chances of securing housing, and provide the peace of mind that comes with not having a criminal history on file.
Think of it as an investment in your future. The cost of expungement is relatively small compared to the long-term benefits of having a clean slate, which is why it’s a worthwhile consideration for many individuals looking to turn the page on their past mistakes.











