For many people, a criminal background is detrimental—it can hold you back from getting your dream job, keep you from finding a place to live, or even prevent you from taking out a loan.

But adult criminal records are permanent.

Aren’t they?

Not necessarily.

Some—but not all—adult criminal records can be expunged.

Expungement of Adult Criminal Records in Chicago

If you’re in Chicago, Skokie, Rolling Meadows or any of the surrounding communities, you may be eligible for the expungement of your adult criminal records under the Illinois Criminal Identification Act

Adult criminal records (arrests, judgments, and police records that you acquired after you became an adult) can be expunged under certain circumstances. If you’ve been arrested, you have a criminal record—even if the charges were dropped or you were never convicted of a crime.

If you’ve never been convicted of a criminal offense or municipal ordinance violation, you could be eligible. (If you’re an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces, you could still be eligible even if you were convicted of certain Class 3 or Class 4 felonies.)

Some crimes cannot be expunged, such as violent crimes, crimes that were sexual in nature, and most felonies. However, some “special felony” probations, like TASC or First-Offender drug probation, may qualify for adult criminal record expungement.

It’s also important to note that juvenile expungement is different from adult criminal record expungement. Both result in a clean record, but there are different processes involved.

Do You Need to Talk to an Adult Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer?

We may be able to help you get the fresh start you deserve if you have an adult criminal record. You can find out whether you’re eligible for expungement, learn the differences between expungement and sealing, and find out what others are saying about our expungement services in Illinois

When you’re ready, call us at 847-920-4540 for a free case review. We’ll discuss your record, and if necessary, conduct a criminal background check to make sure we haven’t missed anything. From there, we’ll work hard to get you that fresh start so you can finally move on with your life.