How to expunge a 16 year old felony?

[Jwiz88]

I made a mistake when i was 19 and got a felony retail theft while living in Chicago. It's been 16 years and it still pops up on job applications and such and i would really love to expunge it. Is there any way to do this by mail/online? I don't have a bunch of money to throw at this, is there any free way to do this? Is there any law that just removes the felony after a certain number of years? I'm really lost here so any advice on where to start is greatly appreciated

 

[adjusterjack]

I searched "expunge a felony conviction in Illinois" and came up with a bunch of resources. Now you get to read them

https://duckduckgo.com/?va=c&t=hf&q=expunge+a+felony+conviction+in+illinois&ia=web

 

[quincy]

Here are two of the links that might be among the many found using adjusterjack’s link:

Illinois Legal Aid, with a link to a list of what can be and can’t be expunged or sealed, and where you could find some legal assistance in your area if needed:
https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/starting-case-expunge-or-seal-criminal-record

The forms to complete, from the Illinois State Appellate Defender, can be e-filed (directions provided):
https://osad.illinois.gov/expungement/expungement-and-sealing-general-information.html

 

[kimcara94]

The process of expunging or sealing a criminal record can vary depending on the jurisdiction. In Illinois, where Chicago is located, there is a process for expungement or sealing of records. However, it's essential to consult with a legal professional or use resources specific to your situation. Here are some general steps and considerations:

1. **Eligibility:** Not all convictions are eligible for expungement, and eligibility criteria may vary. Generally, felonies may be more challenging to expunge than misdemeanors. Check with the legal aid organizations in your area or the Illinois court system to determine your eligibility.

2. **Legal Aid Organizations:** Many jurisdictions have legal aid organizations that provide assistance to individuals seeking to expunge their records, especially if they cannot afford legal representation. They may offer free or low-cost services.

3. **Online Resources:** Some states offer online resources to guide individuals through the expungement process. Check the Illinois state court website or online legal aid resources for information specific to your situation.

4. **Local Court Clerk's Office:** You may need to contact the court where the conviction occurred or the clerk's office to obtain the necessary forms and information about the expungement process.

5. **Time Limitations:** There may not be an automatic removal of a felony record after a certain number of years. Expungement or sealing typically requires filing a petition, and eligibility may depend on the nature of the offense and the time that has passed.

Keep in mind that laws and procedures can change, so it's crucial to consult with a legal professional or use current and reliable resources. Legal aid organizations or clinics may be able to provide assistance at reduced or no cost based on your financial situation.

 

[quincy]

The process of expunging or sealing a criminal record can vary depending on the jurisdiction. In Illinois, where Chicago is located, there is a process for expungement or sealing of records. However, it's essential to consult with a legal professional or use resources specific to your situation. Here are some general steps and considerations:

1. **Eligibility:** Not all convictions are eligible for expungement, and eligibility criteria may vary. Generally, felonies may be more challenging to expunge than misdemeanors. Check with the legal aid organizations in your area or the Illinois court system to determine your eligibility.

2. **Legal Aid Organizations:** Many jurisdictions have legal aid organizations that provide assistance to individuals seeking to expunge their records, especially if they cannot afford legal representation. They may offer free or low-cost services.

3. **Online Resources:** Some states offer online resources to guide individuals through the expungement process. Check the Illinois state court website or online legal aid resources for information specific to your situation.

4. **Local Court Clerk's Office:** You may need to contact the court where the conviction occurred or the clerk's office to obtain the necessary forms and information about the expungement process.

5. **Time Limitations:** There may not be an automatic removal of a felony record after a certain number of years. Expungement or sealing typically requires filing a petition, and eligibility may depend on the nature of the offense and the time that has passed.

Keep in mind that laws and procedures can change, so it's crucial to consult with a legal professional or use current and reliable resources. Legal aid organizations or clinics may be able to provide assistance at reduced or no cost based on your financial situation.

All of that information was provided in the links given in the post above yours, Kim.