Moving Forward with Expungement of Criminal Records in Des Plaines, Illinois
Des Plaines is a thriving suburban city with a rich history and a strong sense of community. However, for some residents, a past encounter with the criminal justice system poses a barrier to fully enjoying all the opportunities this city offers. Whether you were charged with a misdemeanor, a non-violent felony, or simply arrested without a conviction, the presence of a criminal record can affect your ability to secure employment, housing, or professional licenses. The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg is committed to helping Des Plaines residents overcome these challenges through expungement or sealing of criminal records.
Illinois Law on Expungement and Sealing
Illinois law, under 20 ILCS 2630/5.2, provides individuals with the opportunity to clear or seal their criminal records. Expungement erases the record entirely, making it inaccessible to employers, landlords, and the general public. Sealing, while not erasing the record, restricts access to it, offering similar protections.
Eligibility for expungement or sealing depends on the nature of the offense, the outcome of the case, and the time elapsed since the completion of the sentence. Arrests that did not lead to a conviction, cases that were dismissed, or charges resulting in acquittal are typically eligible for expungement. Sealing is available for certain misdemeanors and non-violent felonies but excludes more serious offenses, such as DUIs or violent crimes.
The Impact of a Criminal Record
A criminal record is more than a legal document—it is a barrier that can affect many aspects of daily life. Employers often conduct background checks, and the presence of a criminal record can disqualify you from certain positions. Housing providers may deny applications based on criminal history, and some professional licenses are inaccessible to those with specific convictions.
The consequences are not only practical but also emotional. Carrying the weight of a past mistake can be a source of stress and stigma. Expungement or sealing allows you to move forward, free from the limitations imposed by a criminal record.
The Legal Process for Expungement or Sealing
The process of expungement or sealing begins with filing a petition in the appropriate circuit court. This petition must include details about the arrest or conviction, including dates, charges, and case outcomes. The court will review your petition, and a hearing may be held to determine whether expungement or sealing is warranted.
The process can be complex and time-sensitive. Missing deadlines or failing to provide necessary documentation can delay or jeopardize your petition. An experienced attorney can ensure that your case is properly prepared and argued before the court.
The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney
An attorney plays a crucial role in expungement and sealing cases, from determining your eligibility to advocating on your behalf in court. With a skilled attorney, you can present a compelling case for why your record should be cleared or sealed, increasing your chances of success. The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg has decades of experience helping clients in Des Plaines and Cook County navigate this process.
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.