When you’re denied employment, financing, or even a place to live because you have a criminal record, you know how tough it can be—but you may be eligible to have your criminal record expunged
How to Get Your Record Expunged in Chicago, Skokie, or Rolling Meadows
Eligibility for Expungement in Chicago and the Surrounding Communities
The first step is determining your eligibility for expungement. Generally, if you have had a conviction, your record can’t be expunged. However, there are some exceptions—and even if you don’t qualify for expungement, you could qualify for criminal record sealing.
If you’re eligible for either expungement or sealing, your attorney will file the appropriate petitions with the court. That’s true whether you’re in Chicago, Skokie, Rolling Meadows, or another nearby city. There’s a filing fee involved with submitting your petition, which your lawyer will discuss with you prior to filing.
Objections From the State’s Attorney
The state’s attorney will have a chance to object to your expungement, but he or she may not choose to do so. If the state’s attorney objects to your expungement, you may be entitled to a hearing. Your lawyer can defend you and speak on your behalf at that hearing.
Once the Judge Approves Your Expungement
If the judge approves your expungement, he or she will grant an order saying you’re cleared. The order then needs to be sent to the Illinois State Police and the agency that arrested you. They’ll destroy your records; if your files are sealed, they’ll make them confidential except to a handful of agencies.
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Expungement?
If you need to talk to a lawyer about clearing your criminal record, call us right away at 847-920-4540 for a free expungement case review. We’ll give you the legal advice you need to get the fresh start you deserve.
You may have heard that – with very few exceptions – you can’t expunge a conviction from your criminal record in Illinois. That’s true, but what is a conviction for expungement purposes? This guide explains.
What is a Conviction for Expungement Purposes?
A conviction is a finding of guilt that results in incarceration (jail or prison), probation, a conditional discharge, fine, or time served. If the court finds you guilty,
If you were found not guilty of a crime, you still have a criminal record. In fact, you still have a criminal record even if you were arrested and never charged with a crime. But do you need expungement if you were found not guilty or if you were arrested and never charged? This guide helps you decide.
Do You Need Expungement if You Were Found Not Guilty of a
If you’re like many people, you’ve decided that you need a fresh start through criminal record expungement – but how long does an expungement take in Illinois, and what will you be required to provide? This guide explains.
How Long Does an Expungement Take in Illinois?
In Illinois, expungement takes at least a few months. That’s because the state of Illinois and its agencies – such as the Illinois State
