Chicago Criminal Lawyer Blog
Clear Your Criminal Record with an Expungement Lawyer in Aurora, Illinois
Aurora, Illinois, is a city of opportunity, diversity, and growth. Whether you’re visiting the Paramount Theatre, enjoying the Fox River, or participating in the thriving local economy, Aurora offers something for everyone. However, for those with a criminal record, life in Aurora can feel filled with limitations. A past arrest or conviction can prevent you from getting the job you want, renting an apartment, or pursuing higher education. Fortunately, Illinois law offers individuals a second chance through expungement and record sealing.
At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, our Aurora expungement of criminal records attorney helps people in Aurora clear their criminal records and reclaim their lives. With decades of experience, we understand how to navigate Illinois law and advocate for the fresh start you deserve.
Illinois Expungement and Record Sealing Laws
Under 20 ILCS 2630/5.2, Illinois provides a legal process for expungement and record sealing. Expungement erases a criminal record, making it as though the arrest or charge never occurred. This remedy is typically available for individuals who were arrested but not convicted, as well as those who completed court supervision or probation for eligible offenses.
Record sealing, on the other hand, makes the criminal record inaccessible to most employers, landlords, and members of the public. While law enforcement and certain government agencies can still access sealed records, they are otherwise hidden from view.
Eligibility for expungement or sealing of criminal records in Illinois depends on the nature of the offense. Arrests, dismissed charges, and certain misdemeanor convictions are generally eligible for expungement. Lower-level felony convictions, such as Class 4 felonies for possession of a controlled substance or theft, may be eligible for sealing. However, convictions for violent crimes, DUIs, and sex offenses are excluded from both remedies.
How a Criminal Record Affects You
A criminal record can have a profound impact on your life, limiting your opportunities for employment, housing, and education. Many employers conduct background checks as part of the hiring process, and a criminal record can disqualify you from consideration, even if you are otherwise qualified. Landlords may deny rental applications, and professional licensing boards may reject candidates with a criminal history.
The stigma of a criminal record can also take a toll on your personal life, affecting relationships, social interactions, and self-esteem. Expungement and record sealing offer a way to move past these challenges, giving you the freedom to pursue new opportunities without being held back by your past.
Steps to File for Expungement in Aurora
The expungement process begins with filing a petition in the circuit court of the county where the case was heard. This petition must include specific information about the case, such as the arrest date, charges, and outcome. Supporting documentation, including court records and evidence of rehabilitation, may also be required.
After filing, the court schedules a hearing to review the petition. During this hearing, the judge considers any objections from law enforcement or the state’s attorney. A skilled Aurora expungement attorney can present a compelling argument in your favor, emphasizing your eligibility and the reasons you deserve a fresh start.
If the petition is approved, the record is either expunged or sealed, depending on eligibility. Expunged records are destroyed, while sealed records are restricted from public view. The process can take several months, but the benefits of clearing your record are life-changing.
The Benefits of Hiring an Expungement Lawyer
While individuals can file for expungement on their own, the process is complex, and mistakes can lead to delays or denials. An experienced attorney understands the legal requirements for expungement and sealing and ensures that your petition is accurate, complete, and persuasive.
At The Law Offices of David L. Freidberg, we guide clients through every step of the process, from determining eligibility to representing them in court. Our goal is to help you achieve a clean slate so you can move forward with confidence and opportunity.
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.
