4 Reasons to Seal or Expunge Your Criminal Record

 Posted on June 30, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Having a criminal record can stand in the way of a lot of things. Especially if your offense was a felony, you may find that a lot of doors are now closed to you. You should know that there may be options for moving past your criminal record and starting over. Expungement or sealing of your criminal record can effectively erase what happened and reopen doors for you in your future. It is important to note that not every offense can be sealed or expunged. Certain crimes, such as DUIs and sex offenses generally cannot be expunged or sealed. While the circumstances under which a criminal record can be expunged are quite limited, sealing the record is an option for many. If you are interested in trying to have your criminal record sealed or expunged, it is important to work with a qualified attorney. You may need to appear in court during the process, and it is best to be represented in these sometimes complicated proceedings.

Why You Should Consider Sealing or Expunging a Past Conviction

It may be tempting to try and forget about what happened as soon as you have completed your sentence. However, the realities of living with a record have a way of continuously reminding you. Reasons you may want to consider seeking to seal or expunge your record include:

• Housing needs - It can be immensely challenging for felons to find satisfactory and safe housing. Many landlords will refuse to consider anyone with a criminal record, even if their offense has no bearing on how they would be as a tenant. Expunging your record may mean that you can now live where you want to live instead of in the type of housing that tends to be felony-friendly.
• Job seeking - Getting a job can be a competitive endeavor these days. Employers may quickly eliminate applicants based on their criminal histories. Sealing or expunging your record can mean that you are more likely to find not just a job, but the type of job you want.
• Closing the chapter - Some people with convictions made a one-time mistake, while others may need to change their entire lifestyle in order to avoid further trouble. Sealing or expunging a criminal record can help you close that chapter in your life.
• Educational opportunities - Pursuing higher education can provide you with the kind of opportunity you need to change your life and stay out of legal trouble. However, many college and graduate school applicants will be denied due to their criminal history. Expunging or sealing your record can help you gain acceptance to the educational program you wish to begin.

There are quite a few ways that sealing or expunging your criminal record can create lasting positive change in your life.

Contact a DuPage County Expungement and Sealing Attorney

Law Office of Philip R. Nathe is skilled in helping people get the new start they are hoping for by erasing their criminal record. Our experienced DuPage County expungement and sealing lawyers will do all we can to help you begin again free of your past charges. For a free consultation, contact us at 630-416-7600.

Source: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=350&ChapterID=5&Print=True