Have you discovered a negative mark on your criminal record or found out that a past arrest might affect job prospects or other opportunities?
You may be eligible to expunge your criminal record in Chicago. Before starting the expungement process, it’s crucial to understand what the criminal justice system allows in terms of clearing or sealing records in Chicago and across Illinois.
- Expungement means clearing your criminal record; if successful, your record will be destroyed. However, expungement is only available for arrests, not for convictions. Generally, only individuals who have never been convicted of a criminal offense or a municipal ordinance violation are eligible for expungement. Exceptions may apply for certain Class 4 Felony drug cases that received special drug intensive probation.
- Sealed records mean that they are not accessible to the general public, but law enforcement agencies can still view the record.
With this information, you can better decide whether to pursue expungement, and sealing, or even applying for a formal pardon from the Governer of Illinois
An experienced criminal defense attorney can guide you through the expungement process in Chicago. Contact us now for a free consultation about clearing your criminal record. Xpunge Chicago handles expungement applications in Chicago and throughout Cook County. Contact us today to schedule your free case review.
