If you’re like most people with a criminal background, you’ve thought about expungement and sealing – but that can lead to even more questions, such as whether expunged records show up on background checks. For most people, it makes sense to talk to an expungement lawyer who understands the law and who can answer tough questions like these.

Do Expunged Records Show Up on Background Checks?

Criminal record expungement gives you a fresh start – and that means people can’t see your record. If a judge grants your petition for expungement, the court will order the agencies that have it to destroy the records they have on you (or return them to you). The agencies will no longer have the records.

Sealing is a little bit different. Some entities can still see sealed records, such as law enforcement agencies, the military, and some employers (like healthcare agencies that need to know about criminal records because they require you to work with vulnerable populations).

However, most entities can’t see sealed criminal records.

What to Do if You Have a Criminal Record That’s Holding You Back

If you’ve ever been arrested, you have a criminal record that potential employers, creditors and even landlords can see. For most people, the best solution is to work with an expungement attorney in Chicago who can complete a background check and petition the court to ask a judge to clear your criminal record.

Not sure whether you’re eligible for expungement? Answer a few quick questions to figure out whether expungement or sealing is a viable option in your case. (Many people who aren’t eligible for expungement are still eligible for criminal record sealing.)

Call us at 847-920-4540 for a free case review. We’ll talk about your situation and what’s more appropriate for your case – expungement or sealing – and we’ll develop a plan of action that gets you the best possible outcome.