How to Know if You Qualify for Criminal Record Expungement
Not everyone qualifies for criminal record expungement, but if you don’t, there’s still hope. You could qualify for criminal record sealing, which serves many of the same purposes that expungement does.
In order for you to qualify for expungement in Illinois, you must not have any pending charges or cases where a final disposition hasn’t yet been entered.
If your cases fall under these categories, you could qualify for expungement:
Acquittal
SOL, or stricken with leave
FNPC, or finding of no probable cause
NP, or nolle prosequi
Dismissal
Supervision
You may also qualify if there were no charges filed, or if you successfully completed Section 10, 410, 70 or TASC probation.
There are some exceptions, such as if you’re an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces and you were convicted of certain felonies. (Learn more about veterans and expungement here.)
There might be other exceptions that apply to you, too.
Your best bet is to get in touch with a Chicago expungement attorney who can evaluate your case and let you know whether you qualify for expungement or criminal record sealing.
What if You Don’t Qualify for Expungement?
If you don’t qualify for criminal record expungement, you might still qualify for sealing. Criminal record sealing closes off your record to the general public, which means it’s not publicly available information. Only a handful of agencies, like law enforcement, the military and some employers (such as those in the healthcare field) will be able to see it.
Do You Need to Find Out if You Qualify for Expungement in Chicago?
If you live in Chicago, Rolling Meadows, Skokie or any of the surrounding communities, we may be able to help you clear your criminal record and get the fresh start you deserve.
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