How Do I Clear My Criminal Record in Illinois?

DuPage County Lawyers Explain Expungement Process

The process of expunging your record begins by obtaining a copy of your entire arrest record. Whether you have been convicted of a crime before or after the one you are currently interested in expunging plays a role in whether your motion to expunge your arrest will be granted by the court.

You must obtain a "rap sheet" from a local policing agency or a written disposition of each and every case you have ever had from the Clerk of the Circuit Court of the county where each arrest took place. If you cannot remember where the arrest occurred, please contact the Illinois State Police Records Bureau in Springfield, Illinois. By searching their database by your name or your fingerprints, they may be able to find your information.

Clearing Your Criminal Record in Illinois

Once you have your arrest record in hand, the next step is to contact the expungement and sealing lawyers at Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. so that we may analyze your specific situation. If we believe that your felony or misdemeanor arrest or charge can be expunged or sealed, we will help you file a Petition for Expungement or Petition for Sealing in the county where the case took place.

In order to complete the paperwork, we will need to know several key pieces of information, including the exact charge; where you were arrested; the date you were arrested; what you were sentenced to, if anything; and other information contained in your record. Depending on the county, you may be required to appear in court. In many situations, however, expunging or sealing your arrest record can be done without a court appearance. Once the order is entered granting your Petition to Expunge or Seal Your Record, the local policing agency, the Illinois State Police and the clerk's office will take care of your file.

Call an Oak Brook Expungement Attorney

The expungement and seal laws apply to us all. There are no short-cuts; only properly prepared petitions, statutorily required waiting periods and mandatory filing costs. At Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C., we charge an affordable flat fee for this part of the expungement and seal service. Contact our DuPage County criminal defense attorneys today to find out if you are eligible. Our professionals will treat your matter as seriously as you do.

If you have been charged with a crime and have further questions about how you can clear your record, call 630-472-9700 for a free initial consultation. Serving Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Elmhurst, Wheaton, Westchester, Burr Ridge, Willowbrook, DuPage County and surrounding areas.