Who Qualifies for Criminal Record Expungement?

Clearing your criminal record takes a significant amount of time – and it takes quite a bit of work, too. But even if you want to clear your criminal record, you might not be eligible.

Some people don’t qualify for criminal record expungement. 

It’s not about them, personally. It’s about the types of crimes and convictions that already exist on their criminal records.

Who Qualifies for Criminal Record Expungement?

The Illinois Criminal Identification Act outlines who can and can’t get a criminal record expunged. In some cases, you have to wait until a certain amount of time has passed; in other cases, such as situations that resulted in a conviction, you may never be able to file a petition for expungement.

Related: The Criminal Identification Act in Illinois: Everything You Need to Know

When You Don’t Have to Wait

The Illinois Criminal Identification Act allows you to have an arrest that never resulted in charges or charges that resulted in acquittal, dismissal, or the reversal or vacation of a conviction, there’s no waiting period.

What if You Don’t Qualify for Expungement?

Even if you don’t qualify for expungement, you may still qualify for criminal record sealing. In many cases, you can have your record sealed so that members of the general public can’t see it – and that includes landlords and many employers. 

What to Do if You Have a Criminal Record 

If you have a criminal record, it’s a good idea to find out if you’re eligible for expungement. Remember:

  • Having a conviction on your record might make you ineligible – even if you weren’t convicted of the offense you want to expunge from your record.
  • The type of crime you’re addressing will have an impact on whether you can expunge it or seal it.
  • You may have to wait until a certain amount of time has passed before you can ask the courts to expunge your record.

We may be able to help you clear your criminal record. If you think you may be eligible, or if you’re not sure, call us at 847-920-4540. We’ll answer your questions and tell you about the process so you can make the best possible decisions for your future.