Find Expungement Attorneys in Chicago

Expungement is a legal process that allows individuals to clear or seal their criminal records from public view. When a record is expunged, it is typically removed from public databases and cannot be accessed through standard background checks. This can help individuals overcome barriers to employment, housing, education, and other opportunities that might otherwise be limited by their criminal history.

Eligibility for expungement varies by state and depends on several factors, including the type of offense, how much time has passed since the conviction or arrest, whether you've completed all terms of your sentence, and your subsequent criminal history. Generally, non-violent misdemeanors and some lower-level felonies may be eligible for expungement after a waiting period. Some states have expanded eligibility in recent years, so it's important to consult with an attorney even if you previously weren't eligible.

Expungement typically results in the removal or destruction of criminal records, making them unavailable to the public. Record sealing restricts access to your criminal record but doesn't destroy it—certain government agencies may still access sealed records. A pardon is an official forgiveness of a crime by the state or federal government, but it doesn't necessarily remove the conviction from your record. The terminology and processes vary by state, so it's important to understand the specific options available in your jurisdiction.