Applying for Lawful Self-Defense Expungement

The following requirements must be met, pursuant to Section 943.0578, Florida Statutes (F.S.), in order to obtain a lawful self-defense expungement of a criminal history record.

Eligibility for a lawful self-defense expungement under Section 943.0578, requires that no information, indictment or other charging document was filed, or if it was filed, was dismissed by the prosecuting attorney or by the court, based on a finding that the applicant acted in lawful self-defense pursuant to the provisions related to justifiable use of force in Chapter 776, F.S. Do not use this application for any other charges not so disposed, or for any other form of expungement.
 
Application
  • You may obtain an application for Lawful Self-Defense Expungement by downloading the application, or by emailing the FDLE Seal and Expunge Section at SEinfo@fdle.state.fl.us, and requesting an application be sent to you.
    • Section A – Section A of the application must be completed and signed in the presence of a Notary Public or a Deputy Clerk of the Court.
       
Completed Written Certified Statement Page
  • For all expunction applications (including juveniles), the written certified statement page completed by the appropriate state attorney or statewide prosecutor is required.

Certified Disposition
  • The applicant must provide a certified disposition for each case/criminal charge(s) listed on the application. This may be obtained from the clerk of court in the county where the case/charge(s) originated.
  • If placed on probation, provide documentation showing termination of probation.
  • For pre-trial intervention cases and other diversion programs, the applicant must provide a copy of the pretrial completion certificate or a letter of successful completion, which may substitute for a certified disposition.
 
Completed Fingerprint Form/Card
  • The applicant must be fingerprinted by an authorized member of law enforcement or other criminal justice agency.
  • The fingerprint form/card must include the applicant’s name, date of birth, signature, and date.
  • The fingerprint form/card must include the signature of the official taking the fingerprints and the agency’s ORI/stamp.
 
Processing Fee
  • A NONREFUNDABLE money order, cashier’s check, or personal check in the amount of $75.00 made payable to FDLE must accompany the application. FDLE does not accept cash, gift cards, or temporary personal checks.
  • Make sure to completely fill out and sign the check/money order.
 
Attorney Letterhead (if applicable)
  • If you are represented by an attorney, a letter of representation from the attorney on letterhead must be submitted with the application. If an attorney letter is not received, FDLE will only correspond with the applicant.
  • Make sure the appropriate mailing address is clearly indicated on this letter.
 
Special Note: It is highly recommended that you obtain and keep a copy of all pertinent documents (i.e., arrest report, disposition, and order to expunge or seal) for your records before you secure the sealing or expungement of your criminal history records. 
 


Florida Department of Law Enforcement Priorities

FDLE is composed of five areas: Executive Direction and Business Support, Criminal Investigations and Forensic Science, Criminal Justice Information, Criminal Justice Professionalism and Florida Capitol Police. FDLE’s duties, responsibilities and procedures are mandated through Chapter 943, FS, and Chapter 11, FAC. To learn more about these areas, read our Statement of Agency Organization and Operation or visit our Open Government page.