If you’re like many people, you want to seal felony convictions on your criminal record so that most people won’t see them. The good news is that some Class 3 and Class 4 felonies can be sealed – even when you’re doing your own sealing petition through the Illinois court system.
Related: DIY expungement: Sign up for exclusive access to forms, instructions and more
What Felony Convictions Can Be Sealed in Illinois?
If you weren’t convicted of a crime, you can seal your record – that goes for arrests, findings of not guilty and dropped charges. However, if you were convicted of certain felonies, here are the ones you may qualify to seal.
Related: Why would a record be sealed?
Class 3 Felonies You May Be Able to Seal
You may be able to seal the following Class 3 felonies:
- Theft
- Retail theft
- Deceptive practices
- Forgery
- Possession with intent to manufacture or deliver a controlled substance
Class 4 Felonies You May Be Able to Seal
You may be able to seal the following Class 4 felonies:
- Possession of cannabis
- Possession of a controlled substance
- Theft
- Retail theft
- Deceptive practices
- Forgery
- Possession of burglary tools
- Offenses under the Steroid Control Act
- Offenses under the Methamphetamine Precursor Control Act
Every case is different, though, so you may want to talk to an attorney about whether you qualify for sealing any of these records. (You can call us at 847-920-4540 for a free consultation prior to signing up for DIY expungement – that way, you’ll be sure your offenses qualify.)
Related: Can a sealed record be used against you?
What if None of Your Felonies Qualify for Sealing?
If none of your felonies qualify for sealing, you can still seal other offenses that qualify. Having felonies on your record that don’t qualify will not prevent you from sealing those that do. (In some states, that’s the case – but not here, in Illinois.)
Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer?
If you need to talk to an attorney about your cases, call us for a free consultation at 847-920-4540. If you’re sure that you qualify, you can fast-forward to the DIY sealing signup page and get instant access to all the forms and instructions you need to get your case started.