What Offenses Can Be Expunged in Chicago?

When you have a criminal record, life can be tough. You might have a hard time finding a job, getting a loan, or even finding a place to live.

If you’re like most people in this situation, you’d love to get a fresh start—and you could be eligible for exactly that through criminal record expungement or criminal record sealing. (Some people who aren’t eligible for expungement are eligible for sealing, but there are some crimes that don’t qualify for sealing, either.)

So what offenses can be expunged in Chicago and the surrounding communities under Illinois law

Offenses That Can (Possibly) Be Expunged in Chicago

Every case is different, and although some of the offenses listed below can be expunged under Illinois law, know that this may not be the case in your situation. If you’ve been convicted of a felony, for example, or if you have a case pending against you, you won’t be eligible for expungement in Illinois

Crimes that can possibly be expunged under the law (but may not be possible in your situation, so talk to your Chicago expungement lawyer to find out) include:

  • Operating an uninsured motor vehicle
  • Suspended registration for no insurance
  • Displaying of false insurance
  • Failure of scrap dealer to keep records
  • Possession of cannabis
  • Possession of a controlled substance
  • Some methamphetamine possession cases
  • Criminal sexual abuse (if the victim was over the age of 18)
  • Domestic battery
  • Theft (only some cases)
  • Criminal damage to property
  • Retail theft

It’s very important that you talk to a lawyer about your situation. Even though the law says that these crimes may be expunged, there are no guarantees—and people who petition for expungement must meet certain conditions in order to be eligible.

Do You Need to Talk to a Chicago Expungement Lawyer?

If you’re not sure about whether you qualify for expungement or criminal record sealing, call us at 847-920-4540 for a free expungement case evaluation. We’ll look at the facts, and if you’re eligible, we’ll help you get on the right path for a fresh start that could change your life.