Second Chances: How to Get Your Criminal Record Clean
Most people really don’t comprehend just how many laws are on the books. If you live in the Chicago area, it is actually quite difficult to even make it a week or two without violating some type of law. For most people, the only reason they don’t have a record is because they were either lucky enough to not get caught, or the police aren’t enforcing particular laws at a given time. If, however, you have been convicted of a criminal charge in the past, you don’t need to let it ruin your life. In some situations, you can seek to have your record expunged, which essentially means the conviction will be entirely removed as if it were never there.
What Does an Expungement Do?
If you are able to have your criminal records expunged, you will be able to move forward with your life as if the conviction never even happened. The courts will have to destroy all records of your conviction, but that is just the start. They will also eliminate the records of your arrests, most types of probation, acquittals, dismissals, and any other indication that you were ever in the court system. You will be able to mark “no” on job applications that ask if you have a criminal record as well, which can really help your future.
What Crimes Can be Expunged?
Expungement is not available for all types of criminal convictions. If you want to clear your record, the first thing you need to do is determine whether or not you will qualify. The best way to do this is to speak with an attorney with experience in this area. For now, however, review the following list of some of the most common types of convictions that can be expunged:
Any arrest (misdemeanor or felony) that didn’t result in a conviction can, and should, be eliminated from your record.
All convictions that were later reversed, vacated, or pardoned can be expunged.
Reckless driving convictions can typically be expunged as long as there is only one on your record.
Driving under the influence convictions can be expunged after a waiting period.
Domestic battery convictions qualify for expungement.
Many types of violations including Order of Protection, Civil No-Contact Order, Stalking No-Contact Order, and more.
Soliciting a prostitute and patronizing a prostitute convictions are eligible.
Felony public indecency qualifies.
There are many other types of crimes that will qualify for expungement. If you’re not sure if your particular conviction is eligible or when it will become eligible, we are here to help. Please contact us to learn whether you will qualify, and if so, how we can help you work through this important process.