Will Expungement Help You Pass a Background Check?

Having a criminal record can hold you back when it comes to finding a job. Even arrests that didn’t lead to a conviction can appear on background checks and cause employers to think twice about hiring you. Expungement can remove those barriers, giving you a clean slate and opening doors to new job opportunities. By working with an experienced attorney, you may be able to clear your record and move forward with confidence.

Find out if you’re eligible for expungement here.

How an Expunged Record Can Open Up New Job Opportunities

Expungement gives you a chance to start over without the stigma of a criminal record. It can improve your ability to find work and advance in your career. This guide explains the following:

  • Why employers check criminal records
  • How an expunged record can help you during background checks
  • Industries where expungement can make the biggest difference
  • How expungement can boost your confidence in the job search
  • How working with an attorney can help you take advantage of this opportunity

Here’s a closer look at each.

Why Employers Check Criminal Records

Many employers conduct background checks to assess a candidate’s suitability for a position. They want to ensure the person they hire doesn’t pose a risk to their company, other employees, or customers. Unfortunately, even an old arrest or dismissed charge can raise red flags, causing them to reject an otherwise qualified applicant. Expungement can prevent this by removing those records from public view.

How an Expunged Record Can Help You During Background Checks

When your record is expunged, most employers won’t be able to see the expunged charges or arrests during a standard background check. This means they’ll evaluate you based on your qualifications and experience rather than past legal issues. Expungement can also help you avoid uncomfortable conversations about your record during interviews, allowing you to focus on your strengths as a candidate.

Industries Where Expungement Can Make the Biggest Difference

Expungement can have the greatest impact in industries that tend to conduct detailed background checks, including:

  • Healthcare: Many healthcare employers require clean records to protect patient safety.
  • Education: Teachers, administrators, and other school employees often face strict background screening.
  • Finance: Employers in banking and financial services often conduct thorough checks to ensure trustworthiness.
  • Government: Many government jobs require fingerprint-based background checks that expungement can help with.
  • Technology: Startups and tech firms frequently perform background checks, especially for positions with high responsibility.

Expungement can make you a more competitive candidate in these fields and many others.

How Expungement Can Boost Your Confidence in the Job Search

Knowing that your record has been cleared can give you peace of mind and confidence during your job search. You won’t have to worry about explaining old arrests or charges, and you’ll feel more empowered to pursue opportunities you might have avoided in the past. With a clean slate, you can focus on building the future you deserve.

How Working With an Attorney Can Help You Take Advantage of This Opportunity

Expungement laws in Illinois can be complex, but an attorney can guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome. From determining your eligibility to filing the necessary paperwork and representing you in court, an attorney can help you navigate the legal system with confidence. By clearing your record, you’ll have a better chance of securing meaningful employment and moving forward in your career.

Find out if you’re eligible for expungement here.

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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Published On: March 5, 2025Categories: Criminal Records