Expungement of Criminal Records Attorney in Aurora, Illinois

Expungement of Criminal Records in Aurora, Illinois – A Second Chance

Aurora, Illinois, often referred to as the “City of Lights,” is a vibrant, diverse city in Kane and DuPage counties. Its beautiful downtown, thriving local businesses, and strong community make it a place of opportunity and growth. However, for residents burdened with a criminal record, it can feel like their past mistakes block the future they hope to achieve. A criminal record can make it difficult to secure employment, find housing, and move forward in life. Fortunately, Illinois law allows for the expungement or sealing of certain criminal records, offering individuals a fresh start.

At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, our Aurora expungement of criminal records lawyer helps people in Aurora understand their legal rights and clear their records. With decades of experience, we provide compassionate, aggressive representation for those ready to leave their past behind.

Understanding Expungement vs. Record Sealing in Illinois

Under Illinois law, governed by the Criminal Identification Act (20 ILCS 2630/5.2), individuals may seek either expungement or sealing of their criminal records. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they represent two distinct legal remedies.

Expungement completely erases a criminal record, removing it from public view and destroying it entirely. This option is typically available for cases that did not result in a conviction, such as arrests, dismissed charges, acquittals, and successfully completed supervision or probation for certain offenses.

Sealing, on the other hand, restricts access to the criminal record. While sealed records remain available to law enforcement and certain government agencies, they are no longer visible to most employers, landlords, or members of the public. Sealing is often an option for individuals convicted of misdemeanors and lower-level felonies.

Eligibility for Expungement and Sealing

Eligibility for expungement or sealing depends on the type of offense, the case outcome, and the individual’s criminal history. For instance:

• Arrests or charges that did not lead to a conviction can generally be expunged.
• Misdemeanor convictions for offenses such as theft, battery, or disorderly conduct may be eligible for record sealing.
• Certain Class 4 felonies, like possession of a controlled substance, retail theft, or criminal damage to property, may qualify for sealing but not expungement.
• Convictions for violent crimes, DUIs, or sex offenses cannot be expunged or sealed under Illinois law.

Navigating these eligibility requirements can be challenging without legal assistance. An experienced expungement attorney can review your criminal record, determine whether you qualify for expungement or sealing, and guide you through the legal process.

How the Expungement Process Works

The process of clearing a criminal record begins with filing a petition in the circuit court where the case was originally heard. This petition must include details about the offense, the case outcome, and supporting documents. Once filed, the court schedules a hearing, during which the judge reviews the petition and considers objections from law enforcement or prosecutors.

If the petition is granted, the record is either expunged or sealed. Expunged records are removed entirely, while sealed records are restricted from public access. Although the process can take several months, the benefits of clearing your record far outweigh the time and effort involved.

How a Criminal Record Impacts Your Life

A criminal record, even for a minor offense, can cast a long shadow over your life. Employers often conduct background checks, and a criminal record can disqualify you from job opportunities, even in entry-level positions. Landlords may deny rental applications, while educational institutions may reject candidates with a criminal history.

For those seeking professional licenses in fields like healthcare, law, or education, a criminal record can be a major obstacle. Even social relationships and personal reputations can suffer, creating emotional stress and isolation. Expungement or sealing provides a chance to eliminate these barriers and rebuild your life with confidence.

The Importance of Hiring an Expungement Lawyer

While Illinois law allows individuals to file for expungement or sealing on their own, the process can be complex and time-consuming. Mistakes in the petition or failure to include proper documentation can result in delays or denials. An attorney ensures that your case is presented accurately and persuasively, maximizing your chances of success.

At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we work closely with our clients to evaluate their eligibility, gather supporting evidence, and advocate for them during court hearings. Our goal is to help you achieve a clean slate so you can move forward without the burden of a criminal record.

Call Us Today For Your Free Consultation

If you are seeking to expunge your criminal record in Aurora, Illinois, contact the Law Offices of David L. Freidberg for your free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. Serving Aurora and all of Chicago, including Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, and Lake County, we are ready to help you reclaim your future.