Do I have a criminal record if my case was dismissed?
Yes, you do!
Here’s what you need to know.
Do I Have a Criminal Record if My Case Was Dismissed?
A lot of people are surprised to find out that they have a criminal record after having a case dismissed. That’s because the police and the court system both keep track of every case that comes through their files – and arrests and court cases stay there unless you actively take steps to remove them.
How to Remove Dismissed Cases From Your Criminal Record
If your arrest didn’t result in criminal charges, you don’t have to keep it on your record. Likewise, if your case was dismissed, it doesn’t need to stay on your record. To get rid of it and get a clean start, you may want to explore criminal record expungement or criminal record sealing.
What is Criminal Record Expungement?
Expungement is a complete reset. Your criminal record is destroyed or returned to you, which means it no longer exists in the court’s (or the police’s) files. It’s like it never even happened – and even if you have to fill out a job application, you can leave the box that says “Have you ever been arrested?” blank. Nobody can see your record… because it doesn’t exist.
What is Criminal Record Sealing?
Criminal record sealing is like expungement in that nobody can see your criminal record, but it doesn’t disappear. It’s simply blocked from public view. Law enforcement, judicial officers and some employers (like hospitals and the military) can still see it. Landlords and ordinary employers won’t see it, though; it’s not going to come up on a standard background check. Your records still exist.
How Do You Know if You’re Eligible for Expungement or Sealing?
You may have heard that – with very few exceptions – you can’t expunge a conviction from your criminal record in Illinois. That’s true, but what is a conviction for expungement purposes? This guide explains.
What is a Conviction for Expungement Purposes?
A conviction is a finding of guilt that results in incarceration (jail or prison), probation, a conditional discharge, fine, or time served. If the court finds you guilty,
If you were found not guilty of a crime, you still have a criminal record. In fact, you still have a criminal record even if you were arrested and never charged with a crime. But do you need expungement if you were found not guilty or if you were arrested and never charged? This guide helps you decide.
Do You Need Expungement if You Were Found Not Guilty of a
If you’re like many people, you’ve decided that you need a fresh start through criminal record expungement – but how long does an expungement take in Illinois, and what will you be required to provide? This guide explains.
How Long Does an Expungement Take in Illinois?
In Illinois, expungement takes at least a few months. That’s because the state of Illinois and its agencies – such as the Illinois State
