New 2017 Illinois Law Expands Eligibility to Seal Records for Most Offenses

Wheaton Criminal Lawyers Explain How New Law Affects Record Sealing

For people with criminal records, expungement can be a lifeline. The ability to erase records related to an arrest or involvement in a criminal case can be invaluable, since it can ensure that a person will be able to apply for certain jobs, obtain housing, pursue an education, and protect their reputation. For those who do not qualify for expungement, which includes most people convicted of misdemeanor or felony offenses, record sealing may be another option. This will make criminal records inaccessible to most people, ensuring that potential employers or other parties will not uncover this information when performing background checks.

While sealing criminal records can provide many benefits for people who have been rehabilitated and are ready to move on from what may have happened in the past, the option to do so had been limited for some. Fortunately, Illinois has allowed more people to qualify for this form of relief. If you are looking to clear your criminal record, the attorneys at Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC can provide the help you need. We will help you understand what steps you will need to take when applying to have your record sealed, and we will advocate for your rights and interests when you take your request before a judge. Our goal is to help you get the fresh start you deserve and ensure that you will be able to pursue opportunities in the future.

Expanded Options for Criminal Record Sealing

In the past, only a few select felony offenses could be sealed in Illinois. In the event that an offender wanted to seal an offense that was not eligible under the law, they would have to petition the governor for a pardon. The process of requesting a pardon took a great deal of work, and pardons were only granted in rare cases. This left many offenders with permanent records that drastically limited their opportunities. Many employers are hesitant to hire convicted felons, and landlords may be concerned about renting property to people with criminal records. With limited opportunities, some were forced to turn to additional crimes, creating an inescapable cycle of offenses, convictions, and permanent criminal records.

Fortunately, eligibility to seal criminal records has been expanded to most felony offenses in Illinois. Under the current laws, you may be able to seal your record if you were convicted of burglary, possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance, possession of a stolen vehicle, retail theft, or forgery.

With a sealed criminal record, your criminal background will not show up on background checks, and you will be in a better position to land a job or rent a property. Since the law offers a "one shot" chance, if you are convicted of another felony once your record has been sealed, you will be ineligible to apply to seal your subsequent conviction. Additionally, a court will have the right to unseal your previously sealed record.

Contact Our Wheaton Criminal Record Sealing Attorneys

If you have been convicted of a nonviolent felony and would like a fair chance at securing a job or housing, it is in your best interest to contact our offices to learn about your eligibility for record sealing or expungement. You can depend on Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC to guide you through the process and represent you as you petition to have your record sealed or expunged. Call us at 630-665-7300 for an Initial Attorney Consultation.