Crime & Traffic

When you are arrested or charged with an offense, a criminal record is created, even if you are released without being charged or found not guilty. These criminal records can be viewed by the public, including potential employers and landlords. Learn more about criminal records in Illinois.

You can hide some of these charges from being seen by the general public. This is called sealing. You might even be able to have these records destroyed. This is called expungement. Whether you qualify depends on:

• The outcome of the case, such as whether it was dismissed Cases dismissed with no further action anticipated. or you were convicted,
• If you were convicted, what type of crime it was, and
• How much time has passed since the case was completed.

This guide covers information about expunging or sealing an adult Any person 18 years old or over criminal record. If you are looking for information about expunging a juvenile record, see our juvenile expungement guide. 

If you have a cannabis arrest or conviction, When someone is declared guilty of a crime by a court you may qualify for expungement assistance from an attorney through New Leaf. Learn more about cannabis legalization and find out if you’re eligible to have your record cleared now that cannabis is legal.

Start a case to expunge or seal a criminal record. For detailed information about sealing and expungement, see:

• Before filing for expungement or sealing common questions
• Court process for expungement or sealing common questions
• After your expungement or sealing case is decided common questions