If you’ve been arrested, you have a criminal record – but the good news is that you could be eligible for what’s known as criminal record expungement. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re eligible, you could start fresh with a clean slate.
What is Criminal Record Expungement?
Criminal record expungement is a process that results in your criminal record being destroyed. It’s as if it never happened. In most cases, convictions cannot be removed from a record (although there are a few exceptions, such as honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have certain convictions).
How to Find Out if You’re Eligible for Criminal Record Expungement
Use our site to answer a few questions and find out if you’re eligible for criminal record expungement. Generally, you’re eligible if you were not convicted of a crime and you meet a few other requirements. You must also wait until the case has a final disposition (it’s completely resolved). The case must have – with the exception of a few circumstances – a final disposition of:
- Acquittal (a finding of not guilty)
- Stricken with leave
- Finding of no probably cause
- Nolle prosequi
- Dismissal
- Supervision that was successfully completed
- Section 10, 410, 70 or TASC probation that was successfully completed
You could also be eligible if no charges were filed against you in the case.
If you do not qualify for criminal record expungement, you may still qualify for criminal record sealing. It’s usually a good idea to call a Chicago expungement attorney to find out what, if anything, you’re eligible for.
Special Circumstances
If you were on Second Chance Probation and successfully completed it, you don’t have a conviction on your record and you may qualify for expungement or sealing.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Expungement?
If you think you may qualify for criminal record expungement or sealing, or if you’re not sure where you stand, we can help.
Call us at 847-920-4540 for a free case review. We’ll evaluate your situation and try to determine whether you’re eligible – and if you are, we’ll work hard to make it happen.
