How long does it take for a felony to get off your record in Illinois?

Asked by: Dr. Naomie Crona V  |  Last update: September 10, 2025
Score: 4.6/5 (10 votes)

Sealable and Non-sealable Criminal Offenses Those criminal offenses that are eligible to be sealed (not expunged) in Illinois include: Incomplete sentences of qualified probation or supervision. Most misdemeanor and felony convictions (there are exceptions) three years after your last sentence ends.

How long do felonies stay on your record in Illinois?

In Illinois, crimes stay on your record forever unless you take steps to expunge or seal them. This means that unless you act, your criminal record will be accessible to employers, landlords, and others who conduct background checks.

How do I get rid of a felony in Illinois?

People with qualifying arrests and convictions may petition the court of their sentencing county to expunge or seal their records. We can answer your questions regarding eligibility for expungement and sealing.

Do felonies go away after 7 years?

Dismissed felony charges can usually be sealed or expunged right away. In California, a felony conviction stays on your record forever if you do not get it expunged. You may be eligible for an expungement if you did not serve time in state prison.

How much does it cost to get a felony expunged in Illinois?

Expunging Your Record ($375.00)

Includes locating your record, if necessary. Identifying which government entities the petitions and court orders must be sent to. Preparing petitions, orders, notices, and any corroborating documents.

📝HOW TO EXPUNGE FELONY CRIMINAL RECORD || 5 Steps

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Will my expunged record show up on a background check in Illinois?

It must be a 5 panel drug test. What Happens After a Case Is Expunged or Sealed? Once a judge signs an order to expunge or seal, the Clerk of the Circuit Court will remove all records from their system including their public access system so the information does not appear on a background check.

Can I own a gun with an expunged felony in Illinois?

You can't get a gun in Illinois if you've been convicted of a felony. A small number of people are eligible for felony record expungement, though, so it's a good idea to talk to a Chicago expungement attorney about your situation if you think you might be eligible.

Will a felony show up on a background check after 10 years?

Under Cal. Civ. Code 1786.18(a)(7), California mandates that a conviction can't be reported when it's older than seven years. Arrests that didn't lead to convictions can't be reported regardless of how much time has elapsed.

Can a felon get a passport?

Yes, a convicted felon can usually get a passport, but it depends on the felony and other factors: Felony typeSome felonies can automatically disqualify you from getting a passport, including: International drug trafficking Trafficking minors "Sex tourism" offenses Treason.

How to find out if your criminal record has been expunged?

You can contact the court that issued the expungement order to determine if your records have been successfully expunged or sealed.

What is the second chance program for felonies in Illinois?

The second chance program is designed for first-time offenders who are willing to take responsibility for their conduct and want to keep a felony conviction off their record. If the defendant completes the program, the charges are dismissed with prejudice.

How do you beat a felony charge?

Here are the steps you need to take if you are facing a felony charge in California:
  1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent. ...
  2. Remain Calm and Polite. ...
  3. Contact an Attorney Immediately. ...
  4. Know What Felony Offense You are Facing. ...
  5. Do Not Post Bail Without Speaking to an Attorney. ...
  6. Be Honest with Your Attorney.

Do I need a lawyer to expunge my record in Illinois?

You can usually expunge your record if you successfully completed the diversion program, supervision or your charge was dismissed. DO YOU NEED A LAWYER? You do not have to have a lawyer to seal or expunge your record, but you may decide to hire one to help with the process.

How to get rid of a felony in Illinois?

Arrests, charges or sentences that can be expunged (erased):

Convictions for misdemeanors and felonies only if they were reversed, vacated, pardoned. In the case of a pardon, you must also have a Certificate of Eligibility for Expungement from the Prisoner Review Board.

How far back can a background check go in Illinois?

How Far Back Does a Background Check Go in Illinois? The FCRA limits reporting on any criminal arrests that failed to result in a conviction that occurred more than seven years ago. If the candidate is being considered for a position that pays a salary of at least $75,000 this time restriction does not apply.

What can felons not do in Illinois?

Statutes in the Personal activities category restrict convicted felons' ability to obtain drivers or recreational licensing; participate in government, political, and civic life; vote; and access public housing and educational grants.

Can you fly with a felony charge?

Can Convicted Felons Travel? Yes, but it depends on your country of citizenship. If you're a US citizen, then yes. You can travel to most countries worldwide as long as you have a passport and a visa (if necessary).

Can a convicted felon go on a cruise?

Yes. As mentioned above, Carnival Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises and others carry out background checks on guests through consumer reporting agencies prior to boarding. Cruisers would not usually be denied entry to the cruise unless they had been convicted of violent crimes such as physical and/or sexual assault.

Can a convicted felon get a gun?

California Penal Code 29800 PC imposes a lifetime ban on gun ownership or control by convicted felons. It applies to anyone convicted of a felony in any state or country.

Do felonies fall off after 7 years?

Felony convictions are not automatically expunged with the passage of time but require the filing and granting of an Expungement Petition by the Court. Many felony cases are "wobblers"; that is, they can be reduced to misdemeanors (even after many years) and then expunged in the same court proceeding.

What is the 7 year rule?

The 7 year rule

No tax is due on any gifts you give if you live for 7 years after giving them - unless the gift is part of a trust. This is known as the 7 year rule.

What is a red flag on a background check?

A red flag in a background check is anything alarming or concerning about a person's past. This could be a history of breaking the law, lying about work experience or education, or other serious issues. However, not all red flags are the same. Some might be small and not that serious, depending on the job.

Can a felon own a gun after 10 years in Illinois?

To restore your eligibility, you must demonstrate to the state police director or a county court judge that you meet the following criteria: You haven't been convicted of any violent or forcible felony charges in the past 20 years.

How long does Illinois expungement take?

Once the Order is signed, the Circuit Clerk has about 60 days to seal or expunge the cases from public record. For most Illinois counties, the process will take approximately 4 months. However, due to the number of individuals living in and near Chicago, the process for Cook County can take about 10 months.

Will a sealed record show up on a gun background check?

FBI for background checks related to firearms. Courts can still access your sealed convictions and may count them for the purpose of sentence enhancement or for establishing the elements of a subsequent crime.