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Joliet Record Sealing Lawyer
If you have a criminal record, it can create significant obstacles in your personal and professional life. From difficulty securing employment or housing to facing stigma, the consequences of a criminal record can be long-lasting. Fortunately, Illinois law provides options to seal or expunge certain records, offering a chance to move forward. As an experienced Joliet record sealing lawyer, we are here to help you clear your criminal record and regain control over your future.
Understanding Record Sealing and Expungement
What is Record Sealing?
Record sealing involves restricting access to certain criminal records, making them unavailable to the general public. While sealed records are not physically destroyed, they are no longer visible to potential employers, landlords, or other entities that perform background checks. Law enforcement officials and some government agencies may still access sealed records under specific circumstances.
Sealing differs from expungement. Expungement typically involves removing or physically destroying the records entirely, while sealing ensures they are only visible to authorized parties. Both processes can have a transformative impact on your ability to rebuild your life.
Crimes Eligible for Sealing
Under Illinois law, most misdemeanors and many felony convictions are eligible for record sealing. Exceptions exist for certain offenses, such as first degree murder or crimes involving public trust. Notably, some arrests and records related to cases that did not result in a conviction may also be sealed. However, records excluding DUI convictions or reckless driving in specific instances may be harder to seal.
If you have successfully completed court supervision or qualified probation, you may be eligible to have your case reviewed for sealing. We help clients navigate these nuanced requirements to determine eligibility.
The Record Sealing Process
Steps to Seal Your Record
- Determine Eligibility
Illinois law allows the sealing of criminal records in certain circumstances. Cases involving adult criminal records, criminal charges that were dismissed, or certain convictions may qualify. - File a Petition with the Circuit Court
A formal petition must be submitted to the circuit court in the county where the case occurred. This includes court records and other documents related to the case. Counties such as Will County, Kendall County, and Grundy County each have specific filing procedures. - Await the Waiting Period
Depending on your circumstances, Illinois law may impose a waiting period before you can petition for sealing. For example, certain records require a set amount of time after the conclusion of court supervision or probation. - Attend a Court Hearing
In some cases, you may need to present your case in front of a judge. Our attorneys will advocate for your best interests during the hearing. - Notifying Law Enforcement and Government Agencies
Once your record is sealed, entities such as the Illinois State Police and other government agencies are notified to update their databases.
How We Help
Comprehensive Legal Support
As a Joliet record sealing lawyer, we assist clients through every stage of the process. Whether you’re seeking to have a record expunged or sealed, our team ensures that all documents are filed accurately and on time. We also provide personalized guidance to help clients address issues such as improperly sealed records or incomplete court records.
Benefits of Record Sealing
Sealing your record can help you:
- Obtain housing without the barrier of a criminal record.
- Secure opportunities with potential employers.
- Reclaim privacy and reduce public record accessibility.
If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies for sealing or expungement, we offer a free initial consultation to assess your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between expungement and sealing?
Expungement removes your criminal record entirely, often involving its physical destruction. Sealing restricts access to the record, making it invisible to the public while remaining accessible to law enforcement and specific government agencies.
How long is the waiting period to seal a record in Illinois?
The waiting period depends on the type of case and the resolution. For example, individuals who completed court supervision may need to wait a specified number of years.
Are all criminal cases eligible for sealing?
No. Certain offenses, such as first degree murder and some convictions related to public trust violations, are ineligible for sealing. However, many convictions and case records are eligible.
Does sealing apply to arrest records?
Yes, records related to arrests that did not result in a conviction may be sealed in most cases.
How can I start the sealing process in Will County or Kendall County?
To start the process, consult an experienced expungement attorney who understands the requirements of your county. We can guide you through the process, ensuring your petition meets local standards.
Call to Action
Learn more about sealing your record. Call Chicago Trusted Attorneys at (312) 931-5411 to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. You can also reach us anytime through our contact page. Let us help you take the first step toward justice and peace of mind.