FAQ - Clean Record Illinois - Expungement, Seal, Pardon, Clemency

Frequently Asked Questions

How can it help me to have my criminal record expunged or sealed?

A visible criminal record can be used to discriminate against you by employers, landlords, educational institutions or even in your personal life. In today's ultra-competitive job market, employers must sift through countless applicants from all over the country. Employers will often use applicants' criminal backgrounds as an initial filter to narrow down the pack. Getting your criminal record expunged or sealed will give you the confidence and peace of mind that you can succeed without being held down by a mistake in your past.

I wasn't convicted. Can my arrest still be seen?

Yes. All it takes is an arrest for you to have a criminal record. Many people assume that just being arrested, or released after charging, will not be visible. This is simply not true. Any arrest can be seen by someone doing a background check, even if you were never convicted of an offense.

Won't my record automatically expunge after a length of time?

No. This is a common misconception. In Illinois, your criminal record will follow you for the rest of your life unless you take action. It does not matter if you were charged with a felony or misdemeanor, the record will not go away on its own. Even juvenile criminal records do not automatically expunge in Illinois.

Why should I choose Bryant Chavez Law Office?

At the Bryant Chavez Law Office, we focus our practice in expungements, sealings and pardons for criminal records. We work almost exclusively in clearing criminal records. We give you the direct, personalized service that you deserve. You can call and speak with your attorney directly, rather than through an assistant or paralegal. We ensure that you are well-informed along the way, and that the job is done to its proper completion.

Why does Bryant Chavez Law Office only clear records in Illinois?

Expungements, record sealings and pardons are all state-specific processes. This means that the rules for clearing a criminal record are different in every state. If your criminal activity occurred in Illinois, it can only be cleared in Illinois. You should be careful of national websites that may offer these services. Sometimes they may just be offering to sell you legal forms but are not offering Illinois attorney services. At the Bryant Chavez Law Office, we only clear criminal records in Illinois. We offer services specifically tailored to your case and we confidently guide you through the whole process, including attending a court hearing at any county in the state.

I have criminal activity on my record that occurred in Illinois, but now I live in another state. Can I still get it cleared?

Yes. We have helped to clear the Illinois criminal records of many clients who now live in another state. We can file with the court to clear your Illinois record and we can attend any court hearings on your behalf. You will likely not need to travel to Illinois at any point during the processing of your case.

Do you accept credit cards?

Yes. We accept payment via all major credit cards. Call or contact us online for a free consultation.

¿Se habla español?

Por ahora no tenemos un socio que puede hablar español. Sin embargo, nos gustaría encontrarse con Usted y un intérprete. Cuando tengamos toda su información, podriamos representar a Ud. para expurgar o sellar lo que sea necesario.

If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to contact us.

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