Can I Get My Criminal Record Expunged in Illinois?

 Posted on November 12, 2024 in Expungement

If you have a criminal record, it can follow you and impact your employment opportunities, loan funding, and housing options. Whether you were charged with or convicted of a felony or misdemeanor offense, you may wonder if you will ever escape the consequences.

In Illinois, you could be eligible for expungement or record sealing. Either option could give you the fresh start you are looking for, but it is best to work with an experienced Joliet, IL lawyer from Carlson Law Group, P.C. who understands your eligibility and the procedures that must be followed, and can present your request to a judge effectively.

What Is Expungement?

When someone is charged with a crime, it leaves a paper trail. Various documents become part of your criminal record, such as:

• Arrest records

• Charges

• Pleadings

• Court decisions

• Fines

• Court supervision or imprisonment

Much of this information is available to the public in Illinois, and you likely want to limit or eliminate access. Expungement is the erasing and destroying of these documents in your criminal history, including traffic crimes. These records will no longer exist, so they will not appear in a background check.

Are My Records Eligible for Expungement?

Not every criminal record can be expunged; in fact, most are ineligible. If you were not ultimately convicted or the case against you was dropped, you could qualify. Some convictions are eligible after specified periods, including certain drug possession and some court-supervised convictions involving criminal sexual abuse, domestic battery, and traffic crimes.

The best way to determine your eligibility for expungement is to call Carlson Law Group, P.C.. As a former prosecutor and judge, Attorney Carlson is intimately familiar with these requests and how to handle them effectively.

If My Records Cannot Be Expunged, Do I Have Other Options?

If you are not eligible for expungement, you could qualify to have your records sealed. The records would still exist, but the public would not be able to access them. Many background checks would not reveal the existence of sealed records, but some government agencies and law enforcement would still be able to see the contents.

Can I Request an Expungement or Record Sealing Without an Attorney?

You do not have to work with a lawyer for these requests, but there are several benefits that can increase the likelihood of your petition being granted:

• We understand eligibility for these cases, including stipulations.

• We know the kinds of documents you need to support your request.

• We are familiar with the procedures and can guide you through them confidently.

• We will present your petition to a judge, offering a comprehensive argument to grant your request.

• We will ensure that a granted petition is handled correctly, with your records being erased or sealed.

• We can help you determine your options if your petition is denied.

When you choose Carlson Law Group, P.C., you get the added advantage of Attorney Carlson’s personal knowledge of what judges consider when reviewing a petition for expungement or record sealing.

Call Our Knowledgeable Will County, IL Expungement Lawyer

If you want a fresh start, Carlson Law Group, P.C. can help you with expunging or sealing your records if you qualify. To learn more, call 815-710-3700 to discuss your case with our experienced Joliet, IL criminal defense attorney.