Gurnee, IL Expungement Attorneys

Skilled Defense Lawyers Helping You Clear Your Criminal Record in Gurnee, Illinois

A criminal record can follow you long after your case is resolved. Even if you were not convicted, a background check may reveal your arrest or court appearances. Your ability to find a job, secure housing, get a loan, or obtain a professional license could be impacted. If you qualify, you may be able to clear your criminal record through expungement. This process can remove your record from public view, giving you a fresh start.

At Brady Cole Trial Lawyers, we understand the importance of protecting your future. Whether you are trying to move forward after a dismissed case, court supervision, diversion program, or certain qualifying convictions, our criminal defense attorneys can determine whether you are eligible for expungement and guide you through every step of the process.

Understanding the Contents of Your Gurnee Criminal Record

A criminal record can include more than convictions. It can also list arrests, charges that were later dropped, court supervision, probation terms, fines, and the final result of each case. Even if you were never convicted, that information may still appear on background checks.

Your criminal records are usually kept in the county where the offense occurred. Our team can look into your records to determine what information they contain. If you have charges in more than one county, we can obtain those records also. We can then determine your legal options based on your specific case.

Evaluating Your Eligibility for Expungement

A successful expungement can erase your charges and past arrests from your record. Expungement can open doors that may have been previously closed due to your criminal history.

If your charges were dropped, you were pardoned, or you were acquitted, you will usually qualify for expungement. The completion of a qualified diversion or probation program or court supervision could also make you eligible. When you receive approval for an expungement, all records related to your arrest or criminal case will be destroyed.

Not all offenses are eligible for expungement. Usually, charges that qualify are minor offenses. Convictions for charges such as domestic violence, sex offenses, DUI, and similar serious offenses are ineligible for expungement in most cases. If you do qualify, there may be a waiting period before you can proceed with your request for expungement.

If you are seeking an expungement, we can assess your eligibility, gather all necessary records, prepare and file the required documentation, and represent you in court if needed. If you do not qualify for expungement, there may be other ways to minimize the impact of your criminal record. We are committed to doing what is best for you and your future.

Limiting Access to Your Criminal History Through Record Sealing in Illinois

Record sealing is a process that could remove your criminal history from most routine background checks. Although your record would not be erased, record sealing can help you rebuild your life by preventing most employers or other parties from accessing information about your criminal case.

Record sealing may be available for various misdemeanor and felony convictions, but not all offenses. Sex offenses, domestic violence, and DUI charges and convictions are typically ineligible.

If you qualify to request that your records be sealed, a specific waiting period may apply. As with expungement, we can evaluate your charges to determine whether you qualify for record sealing.

What to Expect During the Illinois Expungement Process

After gathering your records and verifying your eligibility, we will help you file a formal petition with the appropriate county court requesting an expungement. The State's Attorney, the Illinois State Police, and the arresting agency will all have the opportunity to review your petition. Any of these parties can make a formal objection to the court. However, we can respond to those objections on your behalf. The judge has the final say on whether your expungement will be granted.

Most expungement cases take several months, and the time needed may depend on the specific details in your criminal record, court schedules, and any objections. If the judge approves the expungement, it can take several additional weeks to fully remove your criminal records from public databases.

Call Our Gurnee Expungement Lawyers

You do not have to let your past limit your future. Brady Cole Trial Lawyers can help you determine your eligibility for expungement or record sealing, and we will guide you through the appropriate steps to clear your record. We are available 24/7 to help you get started. Contact our Gurnee, Illinois expungement attorneys or call 847-752-9639 now to request your free consultation.