Clear Your Illinois
Criminal Record
A criminal record can block jobs, housing, and opportunities for life. Illinois expungement and record sealing laws give you a path forward — and eligibility expanded significantly in 2023.
31,000+
Records Cleared
89%
Approval Rate
4–6 Mo
Avg. Timeline
1 in 3 job applicants rejected due to criminal record
73% of rental applications denied with felony record
Many colleges and trade programs require background checks
Some convictions trigger automatic license suspension
Free Eligibility Check
3 questions · 60 seconds
Question 1 of 3
Were you convicted, or was the case dismissed/acquitted?
Expungement vs. Record Sealing
Understanding the difference is critical — they have different eligibility rules, outcomes, and effects on your life.
Expungement
The record is physically destroyed. It no longer exists in any state database. You can legally answer "no" to most background check questions.
Strongest protection available
Record Sealing
The record is hidden from public view. Employers and landlords cannot see it. Law enforcement can still access sealed records.
Broader eligibility than expungement
Cannot Be Expunged or Sealed in Illinois
How the Process Works
From eligibility check to cleared record — here's what to expect.
Free Eligibility Check
Submit your record details — attorney determines eligibility within 24 hours. No obligation.
Petition Preparation
Attorney prepares all required petitions, forms, and supporting documents for your county.
Court Filing
Petitions filed with the circuit court and served on all required agencies (State Police, FBI, etc.).
Record Cleared
Upon court approval, records are physically destroyed or sealed. You receive written confirmation.
Typical Timeline by County
Cook County
6–9 months
Highest volume
DuPage / Lake / Will
4–6 months
Collar counties
Downstate Counties
3–5 months
Lower volume
Cannabis Conviction Expungement
Illinois's Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act (2020) created automatic expungement for many cannabis convictions and allows petition-based expungement for others. If you have a cannabis-related arrest or conviction, you may already be eligible — even for felonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Illinois expungement and record sealing.
Start Your Free Eligibility Review
A licensed Illinois expungement attorney will review your record and tell you exactly what's possible — at no cost.