If you’re like many people living in Chicago or the suburbs who have a criminal record, it may not have ever crossed your mind that you could be eligible for a fresh start.
However, with Illinois laws on criminal record expungement, you could be.
What is Criminal Record Expungement?
Criminal record expungement is the process of erasing a person’s criminal arrests and, in some cases, convictions.
If you have your criminal record expunged, you will be able to move forward with your life as if it never even happened.
Why Should You Petition for Criminal Record Expungement?
The sad truth is that many employers, landlords and even lenders are hesitant to work with someone who has a criminal record.
Many people find that it’s difficult to get a job, obtain housing, or even qualify for financial assistance due to mistakes they’ve made in their past.
Criminal Record Expungement: The Basics
If you want to have your criminal record expunged in Chicago or elsewhere in Illinois, it may be best to talk to a local expungement lawyer. Your lawyer will help determine whether you’re eligible for expungement (you can also find out right now if you’re eligible for expungement) and tell you what you need to do to get the fresh start you deserve.
If you’re not eligible for expungement, you could still be eligible for criminal record sealing
If You Are Eligible for Expungement…
If you’re eligible for expungement, your lawyer will file the appropriate petitions with the court. The state’s attorney has a chance to object to your petition; if that happens, you may be entitled to a hearing. Your Chicago expungement lawyer will represent you in court, as well as present evidence that shows you deserve a new start.
If the judge grants the order, it will be sent to the Illinois State Police and the agency that arrested you so they can get rid of the records they have pertaining to your case.
Are You Interested in Criminal Record Expungement?
If you’d like to find out whether you’re eligible for expungement or sealing, we may be able to help you. Call us at 847-920-4540 right now for a free expungement case review
