Expungement isn’t a very common term, and many people don’t know its meaning. However, if you have a criminal record, it’s crucial to know what this is and how it can help you and your future. Your life changes once you have a criminal record; it’s difficult to find jobs even if you’ve never been convicted.
Employers find having a criminal record reason enough not to hire you or to reduce the amount of money you’ll earn on the job. To clean your record, you need an expungement; however, not everyone is eligible. In this post, you’ll find out if you classify for one.
The Meaning Of Expungement
Expunging means removing or erasing. In the justice system, an expungement is a process in which your criminal record is erased; you get a clean slate, a start-over. A criminal charge is erased from a defendant’s criminal record and the public record. When an expungement order is issued, it instructs the court to handle the case as if it never happened.
Expungement isn’t a synonym for pardon; legally, these are two different terms. A pardon can remove or reduce penalties, while expungements clear your criminal record.
Are You Eligible For An Expungement?
In Illinois, not all crimes can be expunged. In fact, a conviction typically cannot be expunged from your record without a pardon. To find out if you are eligible for expungement, please do the following:
- Check your criminal record and look for the following:
- The date you were arrested on.
- Which police department arrested you.
- The type of crime you were charged with.
- If you were found guilty or not guilty.
- The sentence you received.
- The date your sentence was completed.
- Look over these factors to check if your criminal record can be cleared in Illinois:
– If you were arrested but not convicted.
– If you were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony but were later pardoned
– You need a Certificate of Eligibility for Expungement from the Prisoner Review Board.
– If you have a certificate that proves you’re an honorably discharged veteran.
– If the waiting period for a sentence for supervision has passed.
– Sentences of qualified probation if 5 years have passed.
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed when reading this information, and you might feel you need further assistance and guidance to understand what your next step should be to potentially clear your record. You need a lawyer experienced in criminal law to help you out.
A Reliable Attorney In Illinois
My name is Courtney Anderson, and I’m a criminal defense lawyer licensed in the State of Illinois. I’ll take your case seriously and do what it takes to clear your record if you’re eligible for an expungement. I’ll explain what you need to do and our course of action as a team.
I handle personal injury cases, family and divorce law, and criminal defense and traffic cases. I’ve successfully represented numerous clients throughout the State of Illinois.
I understand how intimidating the justice system is. I treat every client and case with compassion, respect, and confidence. Don’t hesitate to contact me if you need assistance to determine whether you are eligible for an expungement.