If you are thinking about how to get a criminal record expunged in Skokie, Illinois, it is important to understand the basics of how criminal record expungement works – in Skokie and throughout Illinois.

Attorney Matt Fakhoury is an experienced attorney who has assisted with countless record expungements and criminal record sealings in Skokie, Illinois. As a former prosecutor, he has specialized knowledge and can answer your questions and help you understand whether you are eligible to get your criminal record cleared. If you are ineligible for criminal record expungement, you may still be able to seal your criminal record or ask for a pardon from the Illinois governor in order to remove an actual criminal conviction from your criminal record.

Some Myths About Criminal Record Expungement in Skokie, Illinois
With thanks to the Office of the State Appellate Defender Expungement Unit,* here are some common myths and misperceptions about clearing your criminal record. These facts and myths hold true in Skokie and throughout Illinois.

Record expungement myth:
“My case was dismissed so there is nothing to expunge.” Record expungement truth: Any arrest on a criminal charge goes on your permanent criminal background record. So even if your criminal case was dismissed, your arrest remains on your criminal background record, which can be viewed by potential employers and other members of the public…

Record expungement myth:
“I completed my supervision, so I don’t have a record.” Record expungement truth: You may have been told that you would not have a conviction on your record if you completed your supervision period. However, your arrest remains on your criminal record even if you successfully complete your supervision.

Record expungement myth:
“My conviction was for a non-violent felony, therefore it can be expunged.” Record expungement truth: Most felony convictions cannot be expunged, cleared or sealed. This is true even of non-violent felony convictions. Certain types of drug possession convictions are a limited exception. There may be other exceptions; check with a qualified criminal record expungement attorney.

Record expungement myth:
“After my record is expunged, I still have to tell prospective employers about my arrest.” Record expungement truth: It is against the law for most employers (or prospective employers) to ask you about a sealed or expunged criminal record.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you through the process of clearing your criminal record in Skokie and surrounding areas. Call or email us now for a free consultation regarding expunging your criminal record in Skokie or elsewhere in Cook County.