Sealing your criminal record in Illinois can offer you a fresh start by making your past offenses invisible to most public searches. This guide simplifies the process, helping you understand each step you need to take.

How to Seal Your Criminal Record in Illinois: A Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding how to seal your criminal record can open doors that were previously closed due to past mistakes. This guide explains the following:

• What records can be sealed?
• Preparing your documents
• Filing your petition
• After filing: What comes next?
• Long-term considerations of sealing your record

Here’s a closer look at each.

What Records Can I Seal?

In Illinois, you can seal many types of criminal records, which helps protect your privacy and improve your future opportunities. Most misdemeanors and many felony convictions are eligible for sealing. However, Illinois law does not allow you to seal records of violent offenses, DUIs, and sexual offenses. Each type of crime has specific rules about whether it can be sealed, so it’s important to check which parts of your criminal history qualify for sealing.

Related: Illinois expungement information

Preparing Your Documents

To start the sealing process, you need to gather several important documents. First, obtain a copy of your criminal record, which you can get from the police department or the court where your case was handled. You also need documents that show your current legal status, like a state ID or driver’s license. If you have court documents or release papers, gather these as well. Make sure all documents are accurate and up-to-date to avoid delays later.

Filing Your Petition

Once you have all your documents, your attorney will file a petition for sealing at the county courthouse where your arrest or conviction occurred. Your lawyer will need to fill out specific legal forms. Some counties may require a filing fee.

Related: Should you run your own criminal background check?

After Filing: What Comes Next?

After you file your petition, the court may schedule a hearing. The judge will review your case and decide whether to seal your records. This decision process can take several months, depending on how busy the court is.

Long-term Considerations of Sealing Your Record

Sealing your record has many long-term benefits, such as making it easier to get a job, apply for housing, or continue your education because most employers and landlords will not see your sealed criminal record. However, remember that sealed records are not completely destroyed. They can still be seen by certain government agencies, such as police departments and the courts, under specific circumstances. This means you should remain aware of who can access your sealed records and under what conditions.

FAQ About Sealing Criminal Records

Check out these commonly asked questions about sealing criminal records. If you don’t see your question here, please call our office and we’ll find you the answers you need.

Who Is Eligible to Seal Their Criminal Record in Illinois?

Anyone with qualifying misdemeanor or felony convictions can apply, except for those convicted of non-sealable offenses like DUIs or violent crimes.

What is the Difference Between Sealing and Expungement?

Sealing hides your record from public view, while expungement completely destroys the record as if it never existed.

How Much Does It Cost to Seal a Record?

Costs can vary, including court fees and potential legal fees if you hire an attorney to assist with the process.

Related: 3 mistakes to avoid when you expunge your record in Illinois

How Long Does the Sealing Process Take?

The process can take from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule.

Can a Sealed Record Ever Be Unsealed?

Generally, sealed records are not unsealed unless under specific legal circumstances or new criminal activity.

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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