EXPUNGEMENTS IN ILLINOIS

A prior arrest or conviction on your record can be limiting, frustrating, shameful and embarrassing.

Additionally, and most importantly, an arrest or conviction could prevent you from getting a job, renting an apartment, buying a home or even being admitted into certain professional schools and colleges. Even if your case was dismissed, that arrest or conviction will still show up on your criminal record when searched. Your arrest record is a public record and is accessible by the general public as well as potential employers unless it is expunged or sealed. Expungements are complex, time consuming, and most importantly, often not automatically granted.

Each district (courthouse) has a different procedure for filing a petition to expunge, which can lead to error and confusion in the process. While anyone can file a petition for expungements in Illinois, attempting to do so without the assistance of an experienced attorney can, and, often times does result in the denial of your petition due to mistakes made during the petitioning process. Seeking help and assistance the first time around ensures that your application is prepared correctly and that the required accompanying documents are attached as part of your petition.

“The laws pertaining to expungement of arrests and convictions vary from state to state and change often and regularly. Contact our office today for a free review of your criminal history to see if you are eligible for expungement or sealing of your records under the latest and newest guidelines in the State of Illinois.”