What crimes can be expunged in illinois. Call 815-710-3700 for a free consultation.

What crimes can be expunged in illinois. Criminal and Traffic Expungement Guidelines and Forms Under specific circumstances, Illinois law allows felony, misdemeanor, or municipal ordinance violation records in Criminal and Traffic cases to be expunged or sealed. State lawmakers changed the law for the expungement process in Illinois significantly in 2010. No private or public entity can see expunged records. This means that unless you act, your criminal record will be accessible to employers, landlords, and others who conduct background checks. Call our Joliet IL office at 815-744-2500 for a free consultation. Read on to learn more about which charges can be expunged in Illinois and how a criminal defense attorney can help. o Fill out the Case Worksheet on page 13. FBI or DHS, are not subject to follow expungement or seal orders of Illinois courts and could retain records in their possession. 2/5 (21 votes) Illinois felony expungement law allows certain felonies to be expunged. Call 630-472-9700 for a free consult. Jun 10, 2021 · Since this Act became effective on June 26, 2020, certain Illinois rules have changed concerning the expungement or sealing arrests, charges, and convictions. These records contain police reports, computer correspondence and any court documents created when a child is suspected or charged with a crime. Jul 9, 2021 · Anyone who has been charged with a misdemeanor or felony in Illinois knows that the court process can be complicated. Our detailed guide clarifies how to get your record expunged, covering eligibility, necessary documentation, and crucial steps, including those for felony expungement. Azhari LLC can help you know the specifics, but here’s a general overview: First-time Offenders: Expungement is generally more likely for first-time offenders with no prior criminal record. 2, explaining the legal framework, potential penalties, the consequences of having a criminal record, and addressing common questions about the expungement process. What charges can be expunged in Illinois? The following types of arrests, charges, or sentences on your criminal record can be expunged: o Arrests for misdemeanors and felonies that did not result in a conviction. May 17, 2017 · For certain crimes, only individuals of a certain age, or who committed the crime before a certain date, can get their record expunged. Expungement and sealing can remove criminal records from official databases, but they don’t automatically erase information from the internet. Every time you apply for a job, or a lease, or a school, you may have to answer uncomfortable questions or face Mar 24, 2021 · Understanding what offenses can be expunged or sealed in Illinois. Charges Dropped or Dismissed Domestic violence charges that are dropped or dismissed do not result in a criminal conviction. o Pick Expungement for: • Arrests or cases that resulted in acquittals, dismissals or non-conviction sentences (see types of offenses that can be expunged under Step 2). S. This action aims to provide individuals with a fresh start, allowing them to pursue employment, housing, and educational opportunities without past arrests or charges appearing on most background checks. If you have a cannabis arrest or conviction, you may qualify for expungement assistance from an attorney through New Leaf. Some local law enforcement agencies may also charge a processing fee. Due to the serious nature of the offense, domestic battery convictions are generally not eligible for expungement. If you are looking for information about expunging a juvenile record, see our juvenile expungement guide. If you are able to expunge a criminal record case from your past, this means that the case, and Apr 18, 2023 · How Does Expungement Work in Illinois? Posted on April 18, 2023 in Criminal Defense When a person is arrested or charged with a criminal offense in Illinois, a criminal record will be created even if the person is found not guilty. Second, the law in the area of expungement and sealing of criminal records is quite complex and can be confusing if you do not have legal experience. In this blog, we will break […] Jan 21, 2021 · Expungement, in Illinois, is a process that can get you your life back. We can answer your questions regarding eligibility for expungement and sealing. How do I get my criminal record expunged in Illinois? To have your record expunged and destroyed, you must file and prosecute a Petition to Expunge in the County where your case concluded. People with qualifying arrests and convictions may petition the court of their sentencing county to expunge or seal their records. Dec 20, 2022 · How To Seal or Expunge a Record in Illinois If you choose sealing or expungement, you must meet with your lawyer and present them with a copy of your complete criminal history. Many of these are phrased such that they are asking about convictions only. It would require that the applicant restrict the completion of the forms to sections that apply only to expunction. Most misdemeanors allow the court to impose a term of supervision, if the defendant has no criminal history. Oct 20, 2024 · In Illinois, individuals with criminal records may seek to expunge or seal their records to improve their chances of securing employment, housing, and other opportunities. Below is a simple checklist to help you determine whether yo People with qualifying arrests and convictions may petition the court of their sentencing county to expunge or seal their records. [1] Many states allow Nov 16, 2021 · Can My Illinois Conviction Be Expunged? Posted on November 16, 2021 in Expungement Having any criminal record at all can have a serious impact on your life. While expungement is narrowly defined, sealing offers a potential path for many convictions. An eligible misdemeanor or class 4 cannabis conviction under the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, 410 ILCS 705. These are primarily related to certain non-violent drug offenses. Crimes That Cannot Be Expunged or Sealed: Aug 24, 2023 · Chicago criminal defense attorney Mitchell S. They include such offenses as: speeding (5 to 25 miles over the limit), illegal turns, improper line usage, ignoring a traffic signal. If you think you might qualify, take action today to restore your opportunities in employment, housing, and education. Scroll down below the chart for important information on how to fill out these forms, including the need for Adobe and downloading forms to save them EXPUNGEMENT: When a record is expunged, it is physically destroyed by each law enforcement agency, as if it never existed. What felonies are expungeable in Illinois? Certain felony convictions, including Class 4 and some non-violent Class 3 and 4 offenses, may be eligible for expungement or sealing in Illinois. Jun 30, 2025 · For example, SB 3463, a law that streamlines the expungement process for juveniles and amends the Juvenile Court Act of 1987, took effect in January 2025. Your attorney can have a thorough criminal background check done on you to help, and once done, you can determine if you are eligible for either sealing or expungement. Call us at 630-416-7600 for a free consultation. Expunged records may be accessed for future criminal proceedings, including for sentencing enhancements if a new offense occurs. You’ll learn where to file your case, how much it costs, who’s involved, and what to expect along the way. Aug 22, 2024 · Illinois Passes New Expungement Law for Juvenile Offenders Posted on August 22, 2024 in Expungement There are a number of reasons why juveniles commit crimes, including boredom, feeling pressure from peers, addiction, or feeling as if they have no other choice. Our Will County, IL criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate requests for expungement. May 16, 2018 · Illinois has one of the broadest expungement and sealing laws in the country. Contained in this site is an overview explaining the process and worksheets to determine if you qualify to expunge or seal your record. Feb 24, 2025 · Our Chicago expungement clearing of record attorney answers the question, How Can I Get My Criminal Record Expunged or Sealed in Illinois? Our DuPage County criminal defense lawyers help clients with eligibility for criminal record expungement and sealing. The Legal Process for DUI Expungement in Illinois To pursue expungement, you must file a petition in the circuit court of the county where your case was heard—Cook County, for example, if your arrest happened in Chicago. Once an order for expungement is granted, an individual can legally state, with certain exceptions, that they were never arrested for or convicted of that specific crime. Call a Wheaton criminal defense attorney at 630-877-5800. Mar 1, 2024 · In Illinois, individuals can clear their criminal history through two main methods: expungement and sealing. Mar 28, 2023 · Can You Expunge a Felony in Illinois? If you have dismissed charges, your conviction vacated, or reversed on appeal, or if the Governor granted a pardon, and if you successfully completed court supervision or probation, your case may be eligible for expungement. This removes a past mistake from public view Feb 19, 2020 · NOTE: This article was updated to reflect 2020 changes in Illinois law with passage of Public Act 101-027. It also explains what happens in court, what objections are, and how you can show the judge you’ve changed. Some things you may notice if you have been a victim of criminal identity theft: Repeated and unexplained rejections by employers, landlords, or lenders Expungement of Criminal Records: Frequently Asked Questions 1. About Expunge Illinois is the online home of A. A second offense of domestic battery can be charged as a Class 4 felony offense, which has a sentencing range of 1-3 years in the Department of Corrections and a possible fine of $25,000. Jan 24, 2024 · In Illinois, the law sets clear boundaries on which criminal records can be expunged. These changes became effective on January 1st, amending Illinois law to legalize recreational use of marijuana and expunge certain possession charges. Call 815-710-3700 for a free consultation. The PRB makes a recommendation as to whether a pardon should be granted, the Governor is not required under Illinois law to follow the PRB’s recommendation. Those offenses include: Minor traffic offenses Many driving offenses Domestic battery Violation of an Order of Protection Sexual offenses Animal offenses Sep 4, 2024 · The permanence of a criminal record can affect many areas of your life, making it harder to find a job, secure housing, or obtain loans. The following can be expunged if there are no convictions on the record: Waiting Periods to EXPUNGE: 160 days: SOL and Non-Suits Dec 21, 2023 · Before a person can have a criminal case expunged or sealed, it must first be determined if the matter at hand is eligible to be expunged or sealed. . Nobody will know that you ever had a criminal The Department of State Police or any employee of the Department shall be immune from civil or criminal liability for failure to expunge any records of arrest that are subject to expungement under the new provisions because of inability to verify a record (nothing in the expungement provisions shall create Department of State Police liability Sep 24, 2022 · In Illinois, only felonies and misdemeanors can be expunged from a driving record. Expunged records are only available to law enforcement in cases involving qualified probations for first-time offenders. Nothing in this Act shall require the physical destruction of the circuit court file, but such records relating to arrests or charges, or both, ordered expunged shall be impounded as required by subsections (d)(9)(A)(ii) and (d)(9)(B)(ii). Call a Wheaton criminal defense lawyer at 630-580-6373 for a free consultation. There are statutory requirements for what types of cases may be expunged or sealed, and which cases are barred from such relief. He has been practicing in this area for 16 years. Expungements for Adults Pursuant to Illinois law, certain cases are eligible to be “expunged” or “sealed, ”thereby removing them from a defendant’s criminal history record or accessibility to the public, respectively. Explore how to seal your criminal record and navigate Minnesota expungement laws effectively. Housing Many rental applications ask questions pertaining to criminal history. To get a criminal record erased or hidden, a person must file a Request to Expunge and/or Seal Mar 21, 2019 · Felony convictions normally involve more serious crimes, making them harder to get off your record. Even if an individual How to Expunge Criminal Records in Illinois The process of expunging criminal records in Illinois is the same as that of sealing records. Illinois law allows you to expunge criminal case from the public record. Those two methods are criminal record expungement and criminal record sealing. Part of the same law that legalized weed also created ways to clear criminal records for weed. Criminal records can often be read by any member of the public. Violent crimes typically fall outside these boundaries due to their nature and the implications for public safety. Expungement removes the record completely, while sealing hides it from most people, except for law enforcement and fingerprint-based background checks. A person convicted of a misdemeanor can have their record expunged in most circumstances. Jul 10, 2024 · In Illinois, expungement means your criminal record is completely destroyed or returned to you—it’s as though the offenses never occurred. How does expungement benefit me? Expungement can provide significant benefits by removing the record of the offense from public view. Can a DUI Record Be Expunged in Illinois? Convictions for crimes of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol cannot be expunged in Illinois. What many people don’t realize is that simply being arrested for a crime can impact your future, even if you’re never found guilty. Jan 26, 2020 · For this reason, Illinois legislators offer former offenders the chance for a “do-over” through expungement and record sealing. Illinois expungement lawyer can help seal or clear your criminal record. What’s the Alternative to Expungement and Sealing in Illinois? The only alternative to expungement and sealing is a pardon. This process removes your criminal history from public databases and most government records. This article explains how to erase it through the Juvenile Record Expungement process. In 2010, the legislature amended the law to prohibit most moving violations from eligibility for expungement or record sealing. The Office of the State Appellate Defender is partnering with the Access to Justice Commission to prepare and distribute legally correct and user-friendly forms for adult sealing and expungement that will be accepted in every courthouse throughout Illinois Can convictions be expunged in Illinois? Illinois felony expungement law allows certain felonies to be expunged. A. Apr 9, 2020 · If you have a criminal record in Illinois, can you get it expunged? Contact an Elgin defense attorney for details and assistance. Additionally, an attorney can help you if an objection is filed. Jan 6, 2025 · Expungement and Record Sealing In Illinois, expungement or sealing of domestic battery convictions is limited. Durrani, Attorney-at-Law. Learn more about expunging or sealing a criminal record Mar 27, 2024 · In Illinois, you can expunge a domestic battery charge if there was no conviction, but a conviction cannot be expunged. There are different ways to have your record expunged, depending on what type of record you have How can I clean my record in Illinois? To have your record expunged and destroyed, you must file and prosecute a Petition to Expunge in the County where your case concluded. What Criminal Records Can be Sealed in Illinois If the attorneys of Tedone & Morton determine that you have some criminal records that cannot be expunged, we will petition to have them sealed whenever While not everything can be sealed or Expunged, our firm has the know how to find a remedy that could help you achieve the result you are looking for! Recently, the Illinois Expungement Laws have changed. Mar 28, 2025 · In Illinois, criminal records stay on your background indefinitely and can be viewed by the public, including potential employers and landlords, unless they are expunged or sealed. If some time has passed since you finished serving your sentence, you may wonder, “How can I get my criminal record sealed in Illinois?” A criminal record is created upon arrest. As a practicing criminal defense lawyer in Joliet, Will County, Illinois, I have successfully used all available diversion programs to significantly reduce sentences for various clients, otherwise, looking at harsh consequences. Expungement offers a legal pathway to clear certain criminal records, effectively treating the event as if it never occurred. The expungement process can be complicated, and it certainly helps to have an experienced criminal law attorney on your side. Expungement in the United States is a process which varies across jurisdictions. Call our office today. It can clear away your old criminal record and give you the fresh start you deserve. Jan 5, 2024 · If you are wondering whether you can expunge your record, call 847-488-0889 and meet with a Kane County, IL criminal defense lawyer. Illinois Expungement Statute Your criminal record can work against you and hold you back. Prisoner Review Board (PRB) • Executive Clemency: The Governor of Illinois has the power under the Illinois Constitution to forgive a crime and grant a pardon. Sealing, which is often seen as an alternative to expungement, is sometimes available to people who have violent crimes on their criminal records. A cornerstone of our practice is the restoration of rights and the Sealing and Expungement of Criminal Records. A step-by-step guide for filing a request to expunge or seal your criminal record in Illinois. While expungement is generally available for arrests that did not result in a conviction, a few specific felony convictions can be expunged. In fact, you can only expunge things from your record if they didn’t result in a conviction or if they resulted in you being sentenced to certain types of supervision or probation. Misdemeanor or felony expungement Illinois may be possible, allowing you to clear your criminal record, depending on the circumstances of your case. Jul 11, 2021 · Under Illinois law, you can’t expunge or seal a DUI from your public criminal record. Mar 27, 2023 · · Expungement is the process of completely erasing a criminal record in Illinois, while sealing makes it inaccessible to the public. Feb 24, 2025 · Expungement can erase criminal records in Illinois, opening doors to better employment opportunities. This is called expungement. How much does it cost? Getting your record expunged or sealed will cost you a filing fee at the courthouse plus $60 for the Illinois State Police. But not all offenses are eligible, and the eligibility for expungement depends on several factors. · Individuals may be eligible for expungement or sealing in Illinois if they were not charged, had their case dismissed, were acquitted,or convicted of certain minor offenses. Feb 19, 2019 · Figuring out which crimes cannot be expunged in Illinois can be tricky, so for most people, it makes sense to talk to a local expungement lawyer. Free consult. Can felony charges be expunged in Illinois? Illinois felony expungement law allows certain felonies to be expunged. May 23, 2022 · First, an attorney can help you determine if your criminal record is eligible for sealing or expunging. What is Expungement? Expungement is the process by which you can erase, destroy, or seal a criminal case from the public record. Our firm has successfully expunged or sealed felony convictions for hundreds of clients. Apr 13, 2021 · Here’s what they are. Feb 14, 2025 · Expungement or record sealing can provide a fresh start by removing the barriers associated with a criminal record. Convictions which were not previously sealable, may be expunged or sealed and effectively removed from your Illinois criminal record. Sep 5, 2024 · There are two methods of trying to put criminal convictions behind you in Illinois. While felony expungement deletes all records pertaining to an arrest, sealing conviction or criminal records in Illinois does not delete any records pertaining to a conviction. Jun 23, 2025 · Expungement offers a chance to clear your name—but the process isn’t automatic or easy. Jan 17, 2020 · Whereas supervision resulting in a dismissal can be expunged, a conviction for domestic battery can never be expunged or sealed. Most felony cases are eligible to be sealed in Illinois. Illinois has one of the most expansive record-clearing laws in the nation, but it's complex. May 5, 2020 · If a child is arrested or has police contact before they turn 18 in Illinois, they likely have a juvenile record. The process itself can be complex and require a comprehensive understanding of Illinois law, making the assistance of expungement attorneys vital. These laws are especially lenient if you committed crimes before you turned 18. This guide covers information about expunging or sealing an adult criminal record. Jun 15, 2016 · An experienced expungement lawyer can be useful at a time like this so that you can present your strongest possible case in support of your criminal conviction for domestic battery being expunged. SEALED: When an Illinois State Police record is sealed, it is no longer available to your employer or other members of the public, but can still be seen by law enforcement agencies. In Chicago, the significance of expungement cannot be overstated, as it is instrumental in mitigating the long-term consequences of a criminal record on employment, housing, and education. e. In general, expungement is a process through which all records of an arrest and of any subsequent court proceedings are removed from the public record, and the individual may legally deny or fail to acknowledge ever having been arrested for or charged with any crime which has been expunged. A person with a criminal record may struggle to find a job or get an educational degree or a professional license that they need for their career. May 22, 2020 · Check out this Illinois expungement FAQ to learn more about clearing your criminal record - it explains the process, the requirements and even the fees. That can cause problems, but there are ways to tell if it happened to you. But not every case qualifies—and knowing which offenses are eligible is key. Jan 1, 2020 · Records held by federal agencies, i. Violent Crimes encompass offenses such as murder, attempted murder, and aggravated battery. Certain misdemeanor convictions, excluding DUI and crimes against persons such as assault or battery. Sealing vs Expungement There are often great employment opportunities and benefits if a person can use the court process to “undo” their criminal If your question is about eligibility for record expungement or sealing then you can take our free online eligibility test to quickly and easily find out the answer. Some misdemeanors cannot be deleted from public records. If you are ready to clear your record, please visit our Illinois record expungement or record sealing pages. Mar 7, 2025 · A misdemeanor conviction can have lasting effects on your life, from limiting employment opportunities to affecting your ability to obtain housing. It doesn’t go away if you are released without charge or eventually found not guilty. Find out if you are eligible here. Jan 26, 2024 · Illinois offers several methods for expunging and sealing adult criminal records, which are different processes. Apr 3, 2025 · Considering DUI expungement in Illinois? Learn the steps to clear your record and how a Naperville attorney can help seal or expunge your DUI conviction. Frequent questions about seal or expunge your criminal record in Illinois, are you eligible, what does it cost? Jun 22, 2025 · Expungement in Illinois is a legal process designed to clear specific offenses from an individual’s public criminal record. Jul 23, 2025 · If you have a criminal history or record for any reason, one of the most effective ways to move forward is to clear your record through expungement or sealing . Learn more! Jun 24, 2025 · Learn the legal distinctions between expunging and sealing a felony in Illinois and the procedural steps required to clear your criminal record. Jan 1, 2000 · As of January 1, 2020, possessing cannabis, or weed, is legal in Illinois, up to certain amounts. Expunging or sealing a criminal record in Illinois can have significant benefits, including improving job, housing, and financial opportunities, and providing a fresh start. Moreover, he has handled Forms Approved Statewide Forms Circuit Court Standardized Forms Approved Statewide Forms — Expungement and Sealing The Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice has approved the following forms. Each process comes with different eligibility requirements. In the state of Illinois, there are certain types of arrests or other contact with the police that are eligible for automatic expungement. Sexner delves into the definition of expungement and who's eligible for it. Apr 4, 2024 · What is Automatic Expungement? Expungement is a legal way to have your criminal record officially erased, making it seem as if it never happened. Learn how to read your criminal record and find out if your cases can be expunged and/or sealed. But the rules regarding what can be expunged and what cannot be expunged are strict and complex. News articles, criminal histories, mugshots, and other online content may still be available even after a record is cleared. May 1, 2024 · This is a felony offense. Criminal records are often inspected when applying for loans, places to live If someone commits a crime using your ID, the criminal record could be under your name. When a your record is expunged, the Clerk’s Office will erase your name from their docket system and impound the court file so the information does not appear on a employment background check and the record will NOT be accessible to the public. What Crimes Can Be Expunged in Illinois? Jul 25, 2025 · Felonies That Can Be Expunged The opportunity to have a felony conviction expunged in Illinois is exceptionally rare. Not all offenses qualify for expungement, but understanding your eligibility is the first step toward clearing your record. This guide offers a clear, state-by-state breakdown of eligibility and procedures for expungement and pardons across all 50 U. Specifically, it addresses aggravated battery cases within Illinois, helping you navigate the process to a clearer Jun 21, 2024 · This article delves into the nuances of expungements under Illinois Statutes Chapter 20, Executive Branch § 2630/5. However, despite attempts to expand access to expungement, certain convictions will always remain on your record unless you are pardoned. The only way to get DUI-related criminal offenses removed from your record is if: There are two methods of 'clearing' your criminal record in Illinois: expungement and sealing. Whether you were arrested but never convicted, or you’ve completed a sentence for a minor offense, expungement could be the key to accessing better employment, housing, and peace of mind. This may block opportunities for getting jobs, housing, and education. The laws that dictate which records are eligible for expungement and the methods for Expungement Laws and Forms: 50-State Survey A criminal conviction, or sometimes even an arrest or charge, can leave a lasting scar long after any penalties have expired. Not everyone qualifies for criminal record clearing, so it’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer who can help you understand whether expungement or sealing is best for you. Even when a record has been cleared by expungement or sealed, the absence of a record can indicate an expungement or sealing occurred. Related: Illinois expungement and sealing information The Benefits of Expunging or Sealing a Criminal Record Expunging or sealing your criminal record can provide significant benefits. This offense is a Class 3 felony which is punishable by 2-5 years in prison. The only option for clearing a conviction from your record is a pardon from the governor, which is extremely rare… possible, but rare. These records may be seen by the public, including potential employers, unless they are sealed or expunged. · Expungement or sealing a criminal record in Illinois can take several months and Sep 4, 2018 · For the most part, if you were convicted of a crime, you can’t expunge your record in the state of Illinois. Aug 14, 2015 · Many people want to know if you can expunge sex offenses in Illinois. Fortunately, Illinois allows individuals to expunge or seal certain offenses from their criminal record, giving them a chance for a fresh start. According to national statistics, while the overall crime rate is decreasing, the crime rate for young people between the ages of 10 Jun 21, 2025 · Expungement in Illinois is the legal process of petitioning a court to have the records of a criminal offense physically destroyed by all law enforcement agencies that hold them. What Is Expungement Under Illinois Law? Expungement means your criminal record is erased—not sealed, May 4, 2022 · What About Sealing? Some violent crimes can be sealed in Illinois. Mar 3, 2025 · But can you expunge a DUI in Illinois? Traffic violations fall into one of two categories: petty or criminal. Aug 5, 2025 · In Illinois, expungement or sealing of a criminal record can offer a fresh start for people ready to move forward. This article provides an overview of the adult record-clearing processes. Oct 17, 2018 · Regarding the expungement of criminal records, there are 4 main time periods which affect when an individual can make his/her petition. To learn what this means for your case, contact The Law Offices of Jonathan Minkus to speak with a Skokie expungement attorney. Jun 10, 2020 · What Crimes Can Be Expunged in Illinois? The list of crimes that can be expunged in Illinois is shorter than the list of crimes you cannot expunge. The list of questions below covers the expungement and sealing process for criminal records in Illinois. Armed Forces, who can petition for a certificate of eligibility for expungement after being convicted of a Class 3 or Class 4 felony. We have sealed or Expunged felony convictions for class X, 1, 2 Jun 21, 2024 · An attorney can help you understand the reasons for the denial and develop a strategy for a successful appeal or reapplication. See How to Expunge and/or Seal a Criminal Record to make sure all of your cases can be erased by expunging your record. Traffic violations can be costly for individuals in the form of higher insurance rates, loss of driving privileges, and other penalties. Expungement removes a conviction from public records, while sealing restricts access to the record. • To “expunge” a record means that law enforcement agencies will physically destroy the records and remove the petitioner’s name from any oficial index or public record. Since 2018, the Illinois State Police must erase some – but not May 7, 2024 · Wondering if domestic violence can be expunged in Illinois? Learn the eligibility rules, process, and legal help available. This procedure offers a path for people to move forward without the lasting impact of a past mistake appearing in background checks for employment, housing, or other opportunities. The Office of the State Appellate Defender can answer your questions regarding eligibility for expungement and sealing. What cases can be expunged in Illinois? The following types of arrests, charges, or sentences on your criminal record can be expunged: o Arrests for misdemeanors and felonies that did not result in a conviction. 7 Criminal Offenses You Can Never Seal in Illinois Some criminal offenses must stay on your criminal record – they’re never eligible for sealing. Differentiating between expungement and sealing is crucial, as expungement completely removes the record, unlike sealing. Jul 23, 2025 · What Criminal Offenses Can Be Expunged or Sealed in Illinois? A Checklist for Clearing Your Record If you have a criminal history or record for any reason, one of the most effective ways to move forward is to clear your record through expungement or sealing. How is this possible? Because arrests go on your criminal record. Sealing a criminal record means that the record is order to be sealed by the court. Felony convictions cannot be expunged. Mar 13, 2023 · Clearing your criminal record with the help of an expungement lawyer can be a critical step in getting a fresh start. Examples of such select crimes include sex offenses involving children, eviction cases, and cases of driving under the influence (DUI). For help filling out this table, see pages 12 – 15. While not all DUI-related entries are eligible for this process, understanding the specific conditions and If you were arrested or had police contact before your 18th birthday you probably have a juvenile record. In the past, minor moving violations could qualify for an expungement in Illinois. When someone has a criminal conviction on their record, they may have problems getting a professional license, getting a job, and with their right to vote. states. Alternative Remedies for Expungement in Illinois Experienced Illinois Expungement Lawyers When you have an arrest on your criminal record, it stays there permanently unless you take action to remove it. Expungement in Illinois (also called expunction) is the destruction and purging of a criminal arrest record by the Court clerk, the arresting police department and the Illinois State Police Bureau of Identification. Rather, sealing simply removes the public record of a conviction. Durrani has assisted over 16,000 people with criminal records issues, expunged or sealed thousands of arrests and convictions, and has appeared in front of the Illinois Prisoner Review Board over 50 times on Petitions for Executive Clemency. Johnson Law Group, LLC can help expunge or seal your criminal record in the Champaign-Urbana area. If your record is expunged, you don’t have to tell anyone that you were ever involved in the criminal justice system – and your past won’t come back to haunt you on background checks. Dec 30, 2020 · Related: The Complete Guide to Criminal Record Expungement and Sealing in Illinois Is Sealing Felonies Better Than Expungement? For the most part, you can’t expunge a felony in Illinois. The answer is a little bit complex – and you won’t be able to figure out whether you can expunge a sex crime unless you understand what counts as a sex crime (and which people it applies to) in Chicago and the An experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney with the Law Offices of Jonathan Minkus can help ensure that your expungement is processed with the greatest chance of success in your situation. However, there are exceptions – including those for honorably discharged veterans of the U. The most common traffic offenses are petty and are only punishable by a fine. Nov 14, 2019 · We look at when a criminal record can be expunged or sealed under Illinois law. For many misdemeanors, felony charges, and traffic offenses, expungement or record sealing are viable strategies. There are limited circumstances in which this is possible, but it can occasionally be Aug 8, 2023 · When it comes to Illinois sealing and expungement, certain criminal convictions remain ineligible for expungement due to the gravity of the offenses involved. Related Resources: 2 days ago · Government and Law Enforcement Access to Expunged Records While expunged records are private, specific government agencies and law enforcement bodies in Illinois retain limited access under certain circumstances. All Illinois Courts must accept these forms. State Pardon & Expungement Guidance Navigating the process of clearing a criminal record can be overwhelming, especially when the laws vary so widely from one state to another. Sep 3, 2015 · Many people who have been convicted of a sex crime in Illinois wonder whether the offense can be expunged. Expungement is a legal procedure where certain eligible criminal records are erased or removed from Feb 27, 2016 · When the time comes to talk about criminal history, however, an expunged record will allow you to truthfully answer that you have never been convicted of a crime in Illinois. In Illinois, crimes stay on your record forever unless you take steps to expunge or seal them. May 14, 2025 · The process of expunging a criminal record in Illinois can offer individuals a fresh start, but one of the most common questions people ask is, “How long does it take?” While the answer varies depending on the specific circumstances of the case, understanding the general expungement timeline is crucial. Forgery is a crime that has gone through many changes under the Illinois criminal code. Apr 14, 2022 · These Acts adjusted the Illinois approach to standard and aggravated domestic battery offenses, including the possibility of a felony charge. Score: 4. Even if your conviction was relatively minor and happened a long time ago, you may feel as if it is still following you. What is not expungeable in Jun 19, 2025 · Explore Illinois’s legal options for a Class 4 felony. Mar 17, 2023 · Our DuPage County expungement lawyer can help you take the steps to seal or expunge your criminal record. If you have questions about your criminal record or want to have it expunged, contact one today. Similarly, the forms are designed for both processes. There are specific waiting periods before you can file for felony record expungement. Jan 15, 2025 · Legally Reviewed Fact-Checked Can a Felony Be Expunged in Illinois? In the State of Illinois, similar to in other states, expungement is the legal process of removing or destroying an individual’s criminal record. records or return them to the petitioner and to obliterate the petitioner's name from any official index or public record, or both. The Expungement Attorneys at Hanna & Ruud, LLC have been helping clients get there life back on track for over a quarter century. That’s where the Law Offices of Andrew Weisberg, a respected Chicago, IL criminal defense attorney, can step in and fight for your second chance. For information on clearing juvenile records, check out Mar 7, 2025 · A misdemeanor conviction can have lasting effects on your life, from limiting employment opportunities to affecting your ability to obtain housing. If your case does not qualify for expungement, you may be able to seal it. To tackle this issue, the state of Illinois has implemented expungement statutes to help individuals clear their records in some cases. 1 day ago · Expungement in Illinois is a legal process designed to clear certain criminal records, removing them from public access. Eligibility for Theft Expungement Expungement eligibility for theft convictions in Illinois depends on several factors. In this 30 minute interview Illinois attorney Paul Meyers explains the seal v expunge dichotomy and key differences. Illinois felony expungement law allows certain felonies to be expunged. The new changes impact the eligibility of A DUI on your record in Illinois can significantly impact various aspects of your life, from employment opportunities to housing and professional licensing. Oct 19, 2024 · Learn what crimes can be expunged in Minnesota. wsotyloc niaavcfg gxtss axesv pnmxb kdlxam jexizf khbr pogsv jzbw