Is My Illinois Criminal Record Eligible For Expungement?

 Posted on August 24, 2020 in Expungement

Each and every time you come into contact with the criminal justice system, that interaction is noted and saved on your criminal record. This is true even if you are not convicted of the crime. If your criminal offense did not result in a conviction, your record will still exist and will still be following you around; however, you may be able to have your records expunged or erased. There are many situations and possibilities in which a case may end without a conviction, such as cases in which you were only arrested but were never charged or charges were eventually dropped. If you have a criminal record that you would like to conceal, you should speak with an Illinois criminal record expungement lawyer.

Does My Offense Qualify?

Not all criminal records are able to be expunged in Illinois. One of the first steps you need to take is to determine if your specific offense and sentence qualify to be expunged. Entries on your criminal record that will typically qualify for expungement include:

• Arrests for a crime that did not result in a conviction

• Convictions for misdemeanors and felonies only if the conviction was reversed or vacated or you received a pardon from the governor

• Completion of court supervision as long as at least two years have passed since the completion or five years for specific offenses

There are certain types of offenses and sentences that do not qualify for an expungement that may qualify for sealing, which is a similar process. Sealing a record means that it is hidden from the general public but not law enforcement officials. 

Illinois expungement laws specifically state that any sentences that have not yet been completed are not yet eligible for expungement. Other entries on your criminal record that are not eligible for expungement include:

• Minor traffic offenses, unless you were released without being charged

• Convictions, unless they were reversed, vacated, pardoned by the governor or approved by the Prison Review Board

• Sentences of court supervision for reckless driving, drunk driving, or sexual offenses against a minor

Contact a Rolling Meadows, IL Expungement Attorney

Having a criminal record can prove to be a great hindrance to your life. Even after you have finished your sentence and have worked past that part of your life, your criminal record will still be visible to all employers, landlords, creditors, and anyone else who runs a background check on you. Expungement is typically the most favorable option if you are looking to clear your criminal record, but the process can be complicated. A knowledgeable Arlington Heights, IL expungement lawyer can help guide you throughout the legal steps. Scott F. Anderson, Attorney at Law, believes that everyone deserves a second chance; to schedule a free consultation, call our office today at 847-253-3400.

Source:

https://www2.illinois.gov/osad/Expungement/Documents/Adult%20Exp/ExpungementSealing_Instructions_Approved.pdf