In the digital age, information is readily accessible online, which can be a concern for parents with a criminal record. If you’re worried about your kids stumbling upon your past, expungement or sealing your record in Illinois can be a viable solution.
How Can I Prevent My Kids From Finding My Criminal Record Online?
Protecting your children from discovering your criminal record involves understanding the legal options available to you. This guide explains the following:
- The impact of a criminal record on family life
- Expungement vs. sealing in Illinois
- The role of a lawyer in expunging or sealing your record
- The process of expungement or sealing
- Maintaining privacy after expungement or sealing
Here’s a closer look at each.
The Impact of a Criminal Record on Family Life
Having a criminal record can affect various aspects of family life, from employment opportunities to social stigma. Parents often worry about the influence their past might have on their children, especially if it becomes known to them through online searches.
Related: Expungement information
Expungement vs. Sealing in Illinois
Expungement and sealing are two legal processes that can help in concealing your criminal record. Expungement involves the destruction or return of your criminal record, effectively erasing it. Sealing, meanwhile, hides your record from most public searches, though it can still be accessed through certain types of background checks.
The Role of a Lawyer in Expunging or Sealing Your Record
A lawyer can guide you through the expungement or sealing process, ensuring that all legal requirements are met. They handle the paperwork, file the petition, and represent you in court if necessary. Their experience in handling similar cases can be invaluable in achieving a successful outcome.
The Process of Expungement or Sealing
The process starts with determining your eligibility for expungement or sealing. Once eligibility is confirmed, a petition must be filed with the court. This process can be intricate, requiring specific documentation and adherence to legal procedures. Working with an experienced expungement attorney ensures that your petition is accurately prepared and submitted.
Related: Life after expungement: Disclosing your past
Maintaining Privacy After Expungement or Sealing
After your record is expunged or sealed, it becomes significantly harder for anyone, including your children, to find information about your past criminal record online. However, it’s important to understand that some records might still be accessible through certain government or law enforcement channels.
FAQ About Preventing Kids From Finding Your Criminal Record
Check out these commonly asked questions about preventing your kids from finding your criminal record online.
What’s the First Step in Hiding My Criminal Record From My Kids?
The first step is to consult with a lawyer to determine if you’re eligible for expungement or sealing of your record.
Related: 5 great reasons to expunge your criminal record
How Effective Is Expungement or Sealing in Hiding Records?
Expungement is very effective as it erases your record, while sealing makes it inaccessible to the general public, significantly reducing the chances of discovery.
Can All Criminal Records Be Expunged or Sealed?
Not all criminal records are eligible for expungement or sealing. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense and your criminal history.
How Long Does the Expungement or Sealing Process Take?
The duration varies but generally takes several months. A lawyer can help expedite the process.
What Should I Tell My Kids About My Past?
The decision to discuss your past with your children is a personal one. If your record is expunged or sealed, you can assure them that your past mistakes won’t affect your family’s future.
Related: What shows up on a background check in 2024?
Expunging or sealing your criminal record in Illinois can be an effective way to prevent your kids from finding out about your past online. With the help of a lawyer, you can navigate this process, ensuring that your family life remains unaffected by your previous encounters with the law.
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Expungement or Sealing?
If you’re tired of your criminal past coming back to bite you, we may be able to help. Call us right now at 847-920-4540 or fill out the form below so we can talk about your case.
