Criminal Record Sealing: New Law May Allow You to Seal Before Completion

Starting January 1, 2016, you may be able to get a fresh start sooner than you could’ve before.

A new amendment to the Criminal Identification Act lets someone who furthers his or her educational goals while completing a sentence apply for criminal record sealing without waiting for the law’s prescribed timeframe to expire.

So what does that mean in plain English?

The Amendment to the Criminal Identification Act

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What’s the Difference Between Expungement and Sealing?

If you’re like most people whose past criminal records are holding them back, you’re probably wondering what you can do to get the fresh start you deserve – and you’ve probably heard about expungement and sealing under Illinois law.

But what’s the difference between expunging and sealing a record in Illinois, and are you eligible to do either?

The Differences Between Expunging and Sealing

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Can You Seal Class 3 or Class 4 Felonies in Chicago, Illinois?

If you are like many people have been convicted of a Class 3 or Class 4 felony, you may be wondering whether you qualify to have your criminal records sealed from public view.

The good news is that certain Class 3 and Class 4 felonies are eligible for criminal record sealing. However, every case is different – and that means it’s a good idea to talk to a Chicago expungement Read More

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Can You Join the Military With a Criminal Record?

If you’re like many people who are considering joining the military, you’re wondering whether you can join the military with a criminal record.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for this question, but here’s what you need to know.

Joining the Military With a Criminal Record

The military requires recruits to have what they call a “high moral character,” but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get in if you have some Read More

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How to Expunge a Criminal Record

If you’re like many people in Chicago, you’re wondering how to expunge a criminal record. Unfortunately, it may not be as easy as you think.

How to Expunge a Criminal Record

Many people choose to work with a criminal record clearing attorney who serves Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, because expunging a criminal record can be a long, difficult process.

The first thing you need to do if you would Read More

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4 Reasons to Have Your Criminal Record Expunged in Illinois

Many people in Chicago and the surrounding communities find that having a criminal record holds than back from doing the things they want to do and if you’re one of those people, a criminal record expungement may be the right choice for you.

If you’re eligible, a criminal record expungement can give you a fresh start.

4 Reasons to Have Your Criminal Record Expunged

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How to Get a DUI Off Your Record in Illinois

In the state of Illinois, you can get a DUI arrest off your criminal record

However, that only means you can expunge the arrest – and you’re only allowed to expunge a DUI arrest if you weren’t convicted of drinking and driving.

How to Expunge a DUI Arrest in Chicago, IL

Most people find that it’s best to work with an expungement lawyer to have a DUI arrest expunged from Read More

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Can You Expunge Sex Offenses in Illinois?

Many people want to know if you can expunge sex offenses in Illinois. The answer is a little bit complex – and you won’t be able to figure out whether you can expunge a sex crime unless you understand what counts as a sex crime (and which people it applies to) in Chicago and the rest of the state.

What is a Sex Crime in Illinois?

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Can You Expunge a Juvenile Record in Illinois?

Having a juvenile record can prevent you from getting certain jobs – particularly those in regulated fields, such as nursing or law enforcement. Although juvenile records aren’t supposed to be available to the general public, sometimes they’re accidentally shared with potential employers.

The only real way to make sure nobody can find out about your juvenile record is to have it expunged. However, the military, some law enforcement agencies and Read More

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Can Landlords See Criminal Records in Illinois?

If you’re looking for a place to live in or around Chicago and you have a rap sheet, you might want to think about having your criminal record expunged or sealed

That’s because landlords are allowed to pull up your criminal background when they’re considering potential renters – and they’re legally allowed to tell you that you can’t rent from them. If you’re applying for Chicago public housing through the Read More

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