The process of clearing your criminal record in Chicago, either through expungement or sealing, can seem a bit overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. If you have a skilled criminal record expungement lawyer on your side, you’ll be able to rest assured that your case is in good hands.
Your criminal record expungement lawyer will file the appropriate petitions, and if the state’s attorney objects to your expungement or sealing, your attorney will be there to argue on your behalf.
An Overview of Expungement and Sealing in Chicago
The law is very clear about who qualifies for expungement and sealing in the state of Illinois. It says that only individuals who have never been convicted of a criminal offense or municipal ordinance violation are eligible for expungement. However, the law does make some exceptions for honorably discharged veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces who have committed certain Class 3 or Class 4 felonies.
You cannot expunge federal and out-of-state convictions under Illinois law.
Felony Convictions That Don’t Count for Expungement
Some “special” felony probations, such as TASC, first-offender drug probation under Section 10 of the Cannabis Control Act, Section 410 of the Controlled Substance Act, or Section 70 of the Methamphetamine Control and Community Control Act are not considered convictions—and that means they may be eligible for expungement or sealing.
Juvenile Expungement
Juvenile expungement in Chicago and the surrounding communities, including Rolling Meadows and Skokie, is different from adult expungement.
Juvenile expungement is not automatic in Illinois. (For more information, see our post “What You Need to Know About Juvenile Expungements in Chicago.”)
Are You Eligible for Criminal Record Expungement?
Not everyone is eligible for expungement, but many people who aren’t can still qualify for criminal record sealing. Find out if you qualify for expungement here
Talk to an Expungement and Sealing Lawyer in Chicago Today
If you’re ready to discuss getting the fresh start you deserve, call us at 847-920-4540 for a free expungement case review. We’ll start evaluating your case immediately.
