Clearing Illinois Criminal Record

Arlington Heights Area Expungement Lawyer

Expungement is the process of removing makes obtaining employment, admission to school, credit, housing and other opportunities easier. A case that has been expunged has been removed from your criminal history and can only be accessed for very limited legal purposes such as enhancing a sentence on a new offense.

For example, if an old theft case you received supervision for is keeping you from getting a good job, you may be able to have it expunged (removed) from your record and not have to report it to potential employers.

What can be Expunged?

Expungement is for cases that were disposed of without a conviction. This is true for cases that were dismissed, findings of not guilty, supervision, and certain types of probation on drug cases including some felonies.

Expungement Limitations in illinois

For most offenses the wait is two years after successful completion of supervision.

It is "all or nothing" which means you can't expunge if you have any convictions.

What if my case cannot be expunged?

If your case is not eligible for expungement, it still may be eligible for sealing. Most misdemeanor offenses and certain felony drug cases can be sealed.

If neither expungement nor sealing is an option, a petition for executive clemency, or a pardon may be an option.

There are many procedures that must be followed to expunge, seal or seek clemency in a criminal case. If not granted on the first try the vast majority will never be granted. Seek an experienced attorney in this area to help you. Call an attorney at Waltz, Palmer & Dawson today to get started clearing your criminal record.