Chicago Domestic Violence Expungement
A domestic violence charge doesn’t have to define you forever.
A domestic violence charge on your record can make it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or move forward—but one chapter of your life shouldn’t determine the rest of your story. Our attorneys understand the impact a criminal record can have on your life, and we focus on helping clients explore every option for expunging or sealing their records so they can take the next step with confidence.
We know that everyone’s story is different, and we approach every case without judgment—only the goal of helping you move forward.
Cases Won
People Helped
Can a Domestic Violence Charge Be Expunged in Illinois?
In Chicago and throughout Illinois, whether a domestic violence expungement depends entirely on the outcome of your case. If the charge was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you may be able to have the record expunged, removing it from public view.
If you were convicted, however, Illinois law does not allow domestic violence convictions—misdemeanor or felony—to be expunged or sealed. In those cases, the only possible relief would be a Governor’s pardon, which is rare and requires a separate legal process.
Because the rules are strict and eligibility can be confusing, it’s important to have an attorney review your case to see what options might be available to protect your record and your future.
What to Do If You Are Arrested for Domestic Violence
If you’re arrested for domestic violence in Illinois, the most important thing you can do is remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and avoid discussing the case with anyone other than your attorney. Anything you say to police, the alleged victim, or even friends and family could be used against you. Do not try to contact the other party if there’s an order of protection in place, as this can lead to additional charges. Instead, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately so they can begin protecting your rights, reviewing the evidence, and advising you on your next steps. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and your ability to protect your future.
Can a Domestic Violence Charge Be Expunged in Illinois?
In Chicago—and throughout Illinois—whether a domestic violence expungement depends entirely on the outcome of your case. If the charge was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or you successfully completed a period of court supervision, you may be able to have the record expunged or sealed, removing it from public view.
If you were convicted, however, Illinois law does not allow domestic violence convictions—misdemeanor or felony—to be expunged or sealed. In those cases, the only possible relief would be a Governor’s pardon, which is rare and requires a separate legal process.
Because the rules are strict and eligibility can be confusing, it’s important to have an attorney review your case to see what options might be available to protect your record and your future.
What to Do If You Are Arrested for Domestic Violence
If you’re arrested for domestic violence in Illinois, the most important thing you can do is remain calm, exercise your right to remain silent, and avoid discussing the case with anyone other than your attorney. Anything you say to police, the alleged victim, or even friends and family could be used against you. Do not try to contact the other party if there’s an order of protection in place, as this can lead to additional charges. Instead, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately so they can begin protecting your rights, reviewing the evidence, and advising you on your next steps. Acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and your ability to protect your future.
When can domestic violence be expunged or sealed?
You may be able to have the record expunged or sealed, removing it from public view if any of these situations apply to your domestic violence/battery charge:
Charges were dismissed or dropped (no conviction)
You were found not guilty (aquitted)
If you were charged with domestic battery and the charge was amended to another offense*
*(like battery, disorderly conduct, assault etc…) you are eligible for an expungement or sealing depending on the sentence.
Domestic Violence charges can NEVER be Expunged or Sealed when:
You were convicted.
In Illinois, a domestic violence conviction—whether misdemeanor or felony—can never be expunged or sealed. State law treats these offenses as serious matters with long-term public safety implications, so a conviction will remain part of your permanent criminal record. Once you’ve been found guilty, the charge stays visible on background checks and cannot be erased or hidden from public view.
When can domestic violence be sealed in Illinois?
You may be able to have the record expunged or sealed, removing it from public view if any of these situations apply to your domestic violence/battery charge:
Charges were dismissed or dropped (no conviction)
You were found not guilty (aquitted)
Domestic Violence charges can NEVER be Expunged or Sealed when:
You were convicted.
In Illinois, a domestic violence conviction—whether misdemeanor or felony—can never be expunged or sealed. State law treats these offenses as serious matters with long-term public safety implications, so a conviction will remain part of your permanent criminal record. Once you’ve been found guilty, the charge stays visible on background checks and cannot be erased or hidden from public view.
Steps to
Expunging or Sealing Your Domestic Violence/Battery Record
In Illinois, the process for expunging or sealing a domestic violence or battery record depends entirely on the outcome of your case—since convictions are never eligible. If your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you can begin the petition process to have the record cleared or hidden from public view. This typically involves gathering your court documents, filing the appropriate paperwork with the circuit court, and attending a hearing if required. Working with an experienced attorney can help ensure every step is handled correctly, improving your chances of success and allowing you to move forward without the shadow of an arrest or charge on your record.
If you’re exploring your options for sealing or expunging a domestic violence/bettery charge, we offer a 100% Free Consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you decide the best path forward. No judgment—just real answers and legal support from attorneys who understand the system and fight to help you start fresh.
Steps to
Expunging or Sealing Your Domestic Violence/Battery Record
In Illinois, the process for expunging or sealing a domestic violence or battery record depends entirely on the outcome of your case—since convictions are never eligible. If your case was dismissed, you were found not guilty, or you successfully completed court supervision, you can begin the petition process to have the record cleared or hidden from public view. Before you begin you should get copies of your case file and final disposition from the clerk of the court where your case was heard.
If you’re exploring your options for sealing or expunging a domestic violence/bettery charge, we offer a 100% Free Consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you decide the best path forward. No judgment—just real answers and legal support from attorneys who understand the system and fight to help you start fresh.
01.
Filing the Petition: You submit your expungement or sealing petition to the appropriate circuit court.
02.
Serve Notice (If Required) – Some counties require notifying the prosecutor’s office or other agencies of your petition.
03.
Attend the Hearing – Be prepared to appear in court if a hearing is scheduled, and bring any supporting documentation.
04.
Receive the Judge’s Decision – If granted, your record will either be removed (expungement) or hidden from public view (sealing).
01.
Filing the Petition: You submit your expungement or sealing petition to the appropriate circuit court.
02.
Serve Notice (If Required) – Some counties require notifying the prosecutor’s office or other agencies of your petition.
03.
Attend the Hearing – Be prepared to appear in court if a hearing is scheduled, and bring any supporting documentation.
04.
Receive the Judge’s Decision – If granted, your record will either be removed (expungement) or hidden from public view (sealing).
FAQs: Domestic Violence Expungement and Sealing
Clearing your record after a domestic violence charge isn’t always straightforward, and the rules in Illinois can be strict. If you’ve been searching for answers about whether your charge can be expunged or sealed, you’re in the right place. Our FAQ section breaks down the most important information, so you know exactly what’s possible, what’s not, and the steps you can take to protect your future.
To start your petition, you’ll need accurate and complete information about your case. This typically includes:
- Certified copies of your case records – including the complaint or indictment, court disposition, and sentencing order (if applicable).
- Arrest records – from the arresting police department or law enforcement agency.
- Proof of program completion – if you completed court supervision, counseling, or a diversion program.
- Photo ID – such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID for filing purposes.
Stay calm, don’t speak to police or anyone else about the case, and contact a criminal defense attorney right away. Avoid any contact with the alleged victim if there’s an order of protection in place.
Yes—if the case did not result in a conviction. This includes charges that were dismissed or ended in a not guilty verdict. Convictions cannot be expunged or sealed under Illinois law. If you have a conviction, the only possible relief is a Governor’s pardon.
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