If you’re like most people with a criminal past, you’d like to leave it where it belongs – in the past.

However, there are some crimes that don’t qualify for expungement or sealing. Here’s what you need to know about animal cruelty convictions.

Related: Do I qualify for expungement in Illinois?

Can You Seal an Animal Cruelty Conviction in Illinois?

Criminal record sealing hides all or some of your criminal record from the general public. Some employers will still be able to see it, and so will law enforcement and a handful of other people – but most members of the public doing a background check won’t be able to see it.

An animal cruelty conviction cannot be sealed or expunged in the state of Illinois. It falls into a category with other crimes, such as domestic battery, violation of an order of protection, sex offenses (other than prostitution and indecent exposure), DUIs and convictions that require you to register with the Violent Offender Against Youth Registry.

Related: How to clear a misdemeanor from your record in Chicago

What Can You Seal in Illinois?

If you were arrested for animal cruelty but you were never convicted, you may be able to seal the arrest from your criminal record. (You can often expunge arrests, as well, which means nobody will ever see them – the records will be destroyed or returned to you.)

Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Sealing an Arrest for Animal Cruelty in Illinois?

Although you can’t seal an actual animal cruelty conviction, we may be able to help you seal an arrest. Call us right away at 847-920-4540 to talk to an experienced attorney – we’ll take a look at your criminal history, answer your questions, and help you find the best way forward.