The only way to get rid of a criminal record that can’t be expunged or sealed in Illinois is to get the governor to pardon you. While it’s not always easy – Governor Pat Quinn has pardoned about 37 percent of the people whose cases he’s evaluated since taking office – it can be done.

But how?

A pardon could give you a Read More

The Chicago expungement process can take months, and if you’re doing it yourself, you’ll need to do a lot of research. Many people choose to work with a Chicago expungement attorney because navigating through the court system alone can be pretty intimidating.

But how does it all work? What does your lawyer have to go through to wipe the slate clean so you can start fresh?

When the state objects to your expungement, it’s normal to be upset. That doesn’t mean your judge will deny your request, but it does mean that you may be entitled to a hearing.

Remember, when you ask for your record to be sealed or expunged, you’re dealing with people who don’t know you; they don’t know anything about you other than what they’re reading on paper. That’s why it’s important Read More