Having a juvenile record can affect your life in many ways, but you can change that. Expungement can clear your record, helping you move forward without past mistakes holding you back.
How Juvenile Record Expungement Can Change Your Life
Expunging your juvenile record can open doors to new opportunities. This guide explains the following:
- The benefits of expungement
- The expungement process
- Eligibility for expungement
- Differences between expungement and sealing
- How a lawyer can help
Here’s a closer look at each.
The Benefits of Expungement
Clearing your juvenile record can provide many benefits. One major advantage is better job opportunities. Employers often conduct background checks, and a clean record can improve your chances of getting hired. Expungement can also help you qualify for loans, as lenders are more likely to approve applications from individuals without criminal records. Accessing housing becomes easier, too, since landlords often check criminal histories before renting. Overall, expungement removes the stigma of a criminal record, allowing you to pursue your goals freely and confidently.
Related: Expunge your record in Illinois
The Expungement Process
Expungement involves legally destroying your criminal record or returning it to you. In Illinois, this process is not straightforward and can be complex. To begin, you must file a petition with the court. This petition should include details about your record and why you believe it should be expunged. After filing, the court will schedule a hearing where a judge will review your case. The judge will consider various factors, such as the nature of the offense and your behavior since the incident. A lawyer can help you navigate this process, ensuring all paperwork is correctly filed and representing you in court.
Eligibility for Expungement
In Illinois, you can expunge certain parts of your juvenile record, including arrests, dropped charges, findings of not guilty, and vacated convictions. However, not all convictions are eligible for expungement. For example, you cannot expunge certain serious offenses. Veterans may have additional options and special considerations for expunging their records. It’s essential to consult a lawyer to understand your specific situation and determine if you qualify for expungement. A lawyer can review your record and advise you on the best steps to take.
Related: Can prospective employers find your expunged records?
Differences Between Expungement and Sealing
It’s important to understand the difference between expungement and sealing. Expungement completely destroys your record, making it as if the incident never happened. Sealing, on the other hand, hides your record from most people but does not destroy it. Sealed records can still be accessed by certain entities, such as law enforcement agencies and employers conducting fingerprint-based background checks. Knowing these differences can help you decide the best course of action for your situation. A lawyer can provide guidance on whether expungement or sealing is more appropriate for your case.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the legal system can be challenging. A lawyer can guide you through the expungement process, ensure all paperwork is correctly filed, and represent you in court. They can also help you understand your rights and options.
FAQ About Juvenile Record Expungement
Check out these commonly asked questions about juvenile record expungement. If you don’t see your question here, please call our office and we’ll find you the answers you need.
What Records Can You Expunge?
You can expunge arrests, dropped charges, findings of not guilty, and vacated convictions. Consult a lawyer to understand if your record qualifies.
Can You Seal a Record Instead of Expunging It?
Yes, you can seal many convictions, but sealed records are still visible to some entities. Expungement completely removes the record.
How Long Does the Expungement Process Take?
The process can take several months, depending on the court’s schedule and the specifics of your case. A lawyer can give you a more accurate timeline.
Are There Any Costs Involved in Expungement?
Yes, there are filing fees and possibly attorney fees. However, the benefits of clearing your record often outweigh the costs.
Related: Can you seal sex crimes in Illinois?
What If Your Petition Is Denied?
If your petition is denied, you may be able to appeal the decision or explore other legal options with your lawyer’s help.
Expunging your juvenile record can change your life significantly. By clearing your record, you can pursue new opportunities without the weight of past mistakes. Contact a lawyer to guide you through the process and help you achieve a fresh start.
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.
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