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?
If you’re like many people, you’re sick of your criminal record hanging over your head and holding you back from doing the things you want to – or need to – do. Fortunately, there might be something you can do about it: You might qualify for expungement or sealing. But how do you get court records expunged? Here’s what you need to know.
If you’re like many people with a criminal record, you want it erased – and fortunately, you might qualify for expungement or sealing. But how long do you have to wait to clear your record if you’re eligible? Here’s what you need to know.
Expungement Waiting Periods in Illinois
While every case is different, and you should talk to a Chicago expungement attorney if you’re not sure about yours, you
Illinois is under a stay-home order until at least May 30, which means most people aren’t even going to court – but does that mean you can’t clear your criminal record right now?
Here’s what you need to know about clearing your criminal record during the coronavirus pandemic – and whether it’s even possible.
