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Expungement of Criminal Records Attorney in Des Plaines, Illinois
A Fresh Start with Expungement of Criminal Records in Des Plaines, Illinois
Des Plaines, Illinois, is a vibrant community in Cook County, known for its thriving local businesses, welcoming neighborhoods, and proximity to Chicago. Despite its peaceful suburban appeal, many residents face challenges stemming from past criminal records that limit their opportunities. Whether it’s difficulty securing a job, renting an apartment, or pursuing higher education, a criminal record can cast a long shadow over your future. Expungement or record sealing offers a way to overcome these barriers and reclaim your life.
The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg is dedicated to helping individuals in Des Plaines clear their records. With decades of experience and an in-depth understanding of Illinois expungement laws, we are here to help you navigate the process and achieve a fresh start.
Understanding Expungement and Record Sealing in Illinois
Expungement is the legal process of erasing a criminal record so that it no longer appears on background checks. Under Illinois law, this process is governed by 20 ILCS 2630/5.2. Once a record is expunged, it is as though the arrest or charge never occurred. This can make a significant difference for those seeking to move forward without the stigma of a past offense.
Sealing, while different from expungement, restricts access to a criminal record, making it invisible to most employers, landlords, and the general public. Certain offenses, including some misdemeanors and non-violent felonies, may be eligible for sealing if they cannot be expunged. Both processes are vital tools for individuals seeking to rebuild their lives after an encounter with the criminal justice system.
How the Criminal Process Creates a Record
A criminal record begins the moment law enforcement takes action. This can include an arrest, issuance of charges, or even an investigation. Even if charges are later dropped or the individual is acquitted, the record of the arrest remains accessible. In Illinois, this can have far-reaching consequences, from affecting your ability to obtain a professional license to limiting housing options.
Understanding the nature of your record and what can be expunged or sealed is the first step toward regaining control of your future. An attorney can review your case and advise on the best course of action based on your unique circumstances.
Benefits of Expungement or Sealing
Clearing or sealing a criminal record offers numerous benefits, including:
- Greater employment opportunities, as most employers will not see expunged or sealed records during background checks.
- Improved housing prospects, since landlords often screen applicants for prior criminal activity.
- Peace of mind and freedom from the stigma of a criminal record.
The Expungement Process in Illinois
The process of expunging a record involves filing a petition with the circuit court in the county where the arrest or charge occurred. This petition must include detailed information about the case, including the date of the offense, the nature of the charge, and its final disposition. The court will review the petition and may hold a hearing to determine eligibility.
The time frame for expungement depends on the nature of the offense and the outcome of the case. For example, cases that ended in acquittal or dismissal may be eligible for immediate expungement, while those involving probation or deferred prosecution programs may require a waiting period.
Call Us Today for a Free Consultation
If you’re seeking expungement or record sealing in Des Plaines, Illinois, the Law Offices of David L. Freidberg is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation 24/7 at (312) 560-7100 or toll-free at (800) 803-1442. Serving Des Plaines, Chicago, and the surrounding counties, we are committed to helping you reclaim your future and move forward without the burden of a criminal record.