If you have a criminal record, some of the information on it is considered public – and employers, landlords, and even lenders can see it. Your record can prevent you from getting a job, finding a place to live, or from getting a loan to buy a home.

But what information can they see?

What Parts of Your Criminal Record Are Public?

It’s not that anyone who’s interested can walk into the police station and ask for your RAP sheet (that’s short for record of arrests and prosecutions) – but the fact is that interested parties can conduct a background check on you and find out when, where and why you’ve been arrested. If you’ve been convicted of a crime, that information is also typically available.

What if You Don’t Want Anyone to See Your Criminal Record?

Some people are eligible for criminal record expungement, and those who aren’t may still be eligible for criminal record sealing.

The major difference between the two are that expungement results in your criminal record being destroyed; sealing makes it unavailable to the public.

Are you eligible for criminal record expungement? Find out now

For many people, the best course of action is to work with a Chicago expungement attorney who understands the process. If you work with an attorney, he can argue your case if the state’s attorney doesn’t believe you should be given a fresh start.

Your lawyer can also answer all your questions about criminal record expungement or sealing. He’ll be able to explain the process and file all the paperwork on your behalf – and again, if you have a hearing, your attorney can let the judge know why you deserve an expungement or to have your record sealed.

Do You Need to Talk to a Chicago Expungement Attorney?

If you’re thinking about clearing your criminal record, we may be able to help.

Call us at 847-920-4540 right away to let us know what you’re up against during your free case evaluation. We’ll start formulating a strategy to get you the fresh start you deserve.