Why Do You Need a Notice of Filing for Expungement and/or Sealing?

If you’re like many people, the prospect of expunging your criminal record sounds great – expungement gives you the fresh start you deserve. No more criminal record hanging over your head, preventing you from getting a good job, finding a place to live, or being accepted to the schools you want to attend.

But the actual process of expunging your criminal record can be complex and time-consuming, which is why many people turn to an Illinois expungement attorney for help.

Why Do You Need a Notice of Filing for Expungement and/or Sealing?

Part of the expungement involves a Notice of Filing for Expungement and/or Sealing, which is a document that you must have to notify interested parties that you want to clear your criminal record. There’s room on the form for you to include the name and street address for the agencies that arrested you, as well as the chief legal officers of the units of local government that arrested you. These people and agencies will be notified that you’re in the process of asking the courts to expunge or seal your criminal record, and they will have the chance to object to your criminal record clearing case if they feel it’s not in the public’s best interest to give you a fresh start.

What Are Arresting Agencies?

The term arresting agencies refers to the agency or agencies that arrested you. For example, if you were arrested by the Chicago Police Department, you list Chicago Police and the street address of the police station. 

Who Are Chief Legal Officers of the Unit of Local Government?

The chief legal officers of the unit of local government that arrested you is usually the attorney for the city or town where you were arrested. If you were arrested by the local sheriff, the chief legal officer is the state’s attorney for that county.

What if There Isn’t Enough Room on My Notice of Filing for Expungement and/or Sealing?

If you don’t have enough room to include all the arresting agencies or chief legal officers of the unit of local government that arrested you, you need another form: the Additional Notice of Filing for Expungement and/or Sealing. If you use that form, you must check the box on your original notice that says you have another document.

Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Expunging or Sealing Your Criminal Record?

If you need to speak with an attorney about clearing your criminal record, we may be able to help you. Call us at 847-920-4540 now or fill out the form below for a free consultation.

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