Legal Question in Criminal Law in Florida

Misdemeanor - will it follow me forever?

I worked in a book store. Just after the 9/11 attacks, I received a phone call about The Anarchist Cookbook (how to make home-made bombs). I misunderstood & thought it was a terrorist bomb threat. My boss called the police & the store was evacuated. When I realized the mistake the next day, I talked to the sheriff & was told I would be charged with filing a false report and the best thing to do was to surrender myself, which I did. The DA charged me with filing a false report & someone from his office said if I pled no contest, the misdemeanor would not be on my record. I went to court and pled no contest as advised. The judge fined me $1,000 & I was on probation until it was paid (6 months). This misdemeanor is still on my record and has cost me several jobs. I have nothing else on my record. Is there anything I can do?


Asked on 9/11/08, 6:58 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Valerie Masters Valerie Masters, P.A.

Re: Misdemeanor - will it follow me forever?

If you received a wh of adjudication it can be sealed. Call me or drop me an email if you would like pricing.

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Answered on 9/11/08, 7:23 pm
Robert Thompson The Law Office of Robert C. Thompson, Jr., P.A.

Re: Misdemeanor - will it follow me forever?

If the Court withheld adjudication and you have never been previously adjudicated guilty of a criminal offense you will be eligible to petition the Court to have your record sealed. Once sealed you will be able to lawfully deny (with limited exceptions) that you were ever arrested or even faced a criminal charge.

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Answered on 9/11/08, 7:51 pm


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