Embarking on the process of clearing your criminal record in Illinois? It’s crucial to approach this with accurate knowledge and the right help. Whether you’re considering sealing or expungement, understanding the nuances can save you time and trouble.
3 Mistakes to Avoid When You’re Expunging Your Record in Illinois
Getting your record expunged in Illinois can be liberating, providing a clean slate from past mistakes. This guide is aimed at helping you navigate this process with the least amount of hassle by avoiding common pitfalls.
This guide explains the following:
- Choosing the wrong type of record clearance
- Misunderstanding eligibility requirements
- Neglecting legal assistance
Here’s a closer look at each.
Choosing the Wrong Type of Record Clearance
Understanding the difference between expungement and sealing is vital. Expungement erases your record, while sealing restricts public access but leaves it accessible to law enforcement and some others.
Related: Chicago expungement information
Misunderstanding Eligibility Requirements
Many people start the expungement process without fully understanding if their records qualify. In Illinois, you can usually expunge arrests, dropped charges, and certain convictions under specific conditions. Ensure you meet these criteria before proceeding.
Neglecting Legal Assistance
Trying to handle expungement on your own can lead to missed opportunities for a cleaner record. An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and improve your chances of success.
FAQ About Expunging Your Record in Illinois
Check out these commonly asked questions about expunging your record in Illinois. If you don’t see your question here, please call our office and we’ll find you the answers you need.
What is Expungement?
Expungement is a legal process that removes your criminal record as if the offenses never happened. This means your record is either destroyed or returned to you, which can help you in many areas of your life, like getting a job or renting a home. The idea is to erase traces of your past legal issues that can appear on background checks, giving you a clean slate.
Related: Can you seal a sex crime charge in Illinois?
Who Can See My Sealed Record?
When a record is sealed, it isn’t visible to the public, which includes most employers or anyone running a standard background check. However, sealed records aren’t completely hidden. Law enforcement agencies and certain employers, like those in public schools or government who have access to information that comes back with fingerprint-based background checks, can still see these records. It’s a partial privacy measure that limits who can see your past criminal records but doesn’t erase them.
What Costs Are Involved in Expungement?
The costs for expunging a record can vary widely based on the complexity of your case and the specifics of what you’re trying to have cleared. Generally, you’ll need to pay filing fees and possibly attorney fees if you hire a lawyer to help navigate the process. These expenses are investments in clearing your name, which can open up opportunities that are otherwise closed due to a criminal record.
How Long Does the Expungement Process Take?
The timeline for an expungement in Illinois can range from a few months to over a year. This duration depends on several factors, including the complexity of your case, the specific court’s schedule, and how complete your documentation is.
Related: Can employers find expunged records?
Can I Expunge a DUI Conviction in Illinois?
In Illinois, DUI convictions generally cannot be expunged, which means they stay on your record permanently. However, in some cases, you might be able to seal them, which would hide the conviction from most types of background checks. The ability to seal a DUI largely depends on your overall criminal record and the specific circumstances of your case.
Understanding these aspects of the expungement process can significantly enhance your chances of clearing your record effectively.
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Expungement or Sealing?
If you’re tired of your criminal past coming back to bite you, we may be able to help. Call us right now at 847-920-4540 or fill out the form below so we can talk about your case.
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