Criminal charges can have a devastating effect on your life. In addition to the legal consequences you may have faced, it could be challenging to move forward with your life when you have a conviction on your record.
In some cases, you can get relief from criminal charges if you meet specific requirements. Having part of your record expunged might mean finding a job or qualifying for certain programs that can help you move on.
Here’s what you should know about expungement in Illinois and who qualifies for it.
What does expungement do?
Expungement can be a useful tool. When the court grants your request for expungement, it can remove the crime from your record.
Keep in mind, although the charge or conviction is no longer on your record, it does not mean all traces of the crime are no longer on your record. Depending on the person or agency looking at your criminal history, the expungement may be visible.
While you may not want someone to know about your criminal background, demonstrating that you were granted expungement might help your claim that you have been successfully rehabilitated.
Who qualifies to have their record expunged?
Expungement is a limited resource. There are certain types of charges and convictions that qualify for expungement, such as:
- Arrests that did not result in a conviction
- Reversed or vacated felony or misdemeanor convictions
- The prescribed period has passed since successful completion of court supervision
There are also certain types of offenses that do not qualify for expungement, like minor traffic violations (unless you were not charged). It is essential to talk to a professional about whether you are eligible for expungement and how to proceed with your request.