Can You Seal a Theft Conviction in Illinois?

If you’re like many people, you have a criminal history that’s holding you back from doing things you want to do, such as finding a better place to live, getting the right type of job, or even attending school. However, there may be hope: You could be eligible to seal offenses on your criminal record. But can you seal a theft conviction in Illinois? Here’s what you need to know.

Can You Seal a Theft Conviction in Illinois?

You can seal a theft conviction in Illinois provided that it was a Class 3 or Class 4 felony, or a misdemeanor. The state can charge you with varying degrees of the crime based on the value of the property involved:

  • If the value of the stolen property is $500 or less and you didn’t steal it directly from another person, the theft is a Class A misdemeanor and you can seal it.
  • If the value of the stolen property is $500 or less and the offense occurred in a school or place of worship, or the property belonged to the government, or you have previously been convicted of any type of theft, robbery, burglary, or forgery offense, it’s a Class 4 felony and you can seal it.
  • If the value of the stolen property is $500 or less and you stole it directly from another person, it’s a Class 3 felony and you can seal it.
  • If the value of the stolen property is more than $500 but not more than $10,000, it’s a Class 3 felony and you can seal it.
  • If the value of the stolen property is between $500 and $10,000, and if you committed the offense in a school or place of worship, the property belonged to the government, the property stolen was a rent payment or security deposit and you falsely posed as a landlord, it’s a Class 2 felony that you can’t seal from your record. It’s also a Class 2 felony if the property is valued between $10,000 and $100,000, or if it was valued at $5,000 or more and was taken from a victim aged 60 or older.

Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Sealing a Theft Conviction?

If you need to talk to an attorney about sealing a theft conviction, we’re here to help. Call us at 847-920-4540 or fill out the form below now. We’ll be happy to provide you with a free consultation.

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