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SUCCESSFUL JOLIET CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY HELPING CLIENTS EXPUNGE THEIR CRIMINAL RECORDS

A criminal record can hold can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Millions of functional, otherwise law-abiding Americans have a criminal record that can hold them back in a variety of ways. Generally speaking, a criminal record is a matter of public record, which means that information about the offense is viewable by the general public. In addition, a substantial number of employers conduct a thorough background check on their potential employees. As a result, the existence of a criminal record can have a significant impact on an individual’s employment prospects. Fortunately for people with a criminal record, in many cases, the record can be expunged, making the record unavailable to most parties that seek them.

HOW DOES EXPUNGEMENT WORK IN ILLINOIS?

The expungement process is started by filing a petition with the court requesting that a certain record be expunged. If an offense qualifies for expungement, the court then directs various parties to destroy all records of the offense. The kinds of records that are destroyed include fingerprints, mug shots, police reports, and court records. Generally speaking, first-time offenders that were not convicted of the offense for which they were arrested are eligible for expungement. Importantly, certain offenses are not eligible for expungement.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF EXPUNGEMENT?

As explained above, expungement results in the destruction of any records associated with an arrest. This can benefit individuals with a criminal record in a number of ways, some of which are detailed below:

  • An expungement can make it easier to get a job – A significant percentage of employers ask potential employees whether they have been convicted of a crime or perform a background check. When a criminal record is expunged, a person may legally say that they have no criminal record and expunged records do not show up in a background check.
  • An expungement can make it easier to get an apartment – Many landlords are hesitant to rent to potential tenants with a criminal record.
  • A criminal record can impact a person’s ability to obtain a loan – Lenders may use a criminal record as a factor in determining a person’s creditworthiness.
  • Expunging your criminal record can provide peace of mind – When a person has a criminal record, he or she often lives with anxiety regarding the fact that anyone with sufficient curiosity and an Internet connection can often view details regarding their offense. When an offense is expunged, it is no longer viewable by the general public.

It is important to note that in some cases, it may be necessary to disclose the existence of an expunged criminal record. Always discuss your circumstances with an attorney if there is any question as to whether or not you should disclose your record.

Contact a Joliet, Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer Today to Discuss Your Case

Anyone with a criminal record of any kinds should discuss their expungement options with an experienced lawyer. With more than two decades of experience practicing law, Joliet criminal defense attorney Eugene Fimbianti has the skill and experience required to bring your case to a successful resolution. To schedule a free consultation with Mr. Fimbianti, call our office today at 815-726-7375.