A high school honors student with a scholarship to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign decided to let loose one night with some friends. Unfortunately, one mistake would cost him his scholarship. After neighbors called the police due to a noise complaint from a loud house party, he was charged and convicted of possession of a controlled substance. As a result, he had to serve 30 days in jail and he lost his scholarship. Now he is 19 years old, and his parents are understandably concerned about his future.
At Glasgow & Olsson, we believe that one mistake should not ruin a person’s life forever. Our lawyers have a proven track record of helping clients receive expungement or pardons for their crimes. In the case of a young person who made a mistake, expungement or pardon could allow the young person to lead a fulfilling life after a criminal conviction.
An Expungement Can Help You Secure Employment
One of the most valuable benefits of receiving an expungement in Illinois is that it helps you find meaningful employment. Nearly every employer runs a background check on potential employees. Background checks reveal an applicant’s record of arrests, convictions, and probation status. Many employers also question a job applicant to determine if he or she has ever been convicted of a crime in Illinois.
When a person’s criminal record is expunged, he or she can truthfully answer “no” to that question. Employers cannot consider an applicant’s expunged conviction when they decide whether or not to hire the applicant. An expungement could help you or your child move on and become gainfully employed.
You Can Have Your Gun Rights Back
Only those with a Firearm Owner’s Identification card (FOID) can purchase and possess firearms in Illinois. In these uncertain times, many Illinois residents understand the value of owning a firearm for self-defense. However, those with certain criminal convictions are barred from obtaining a FOID card. After an expungement, it is as if the criminal conviction did not happen. Once a court expunged criminal records, those convictions cannot prevent you from obtaining a FOID card and getting your gun rights back.
Your Adult Child Can Start a New Life After a Mistake
Obtaining an expungement will allow your child to begin a new life after making a mistake. A young adult should not have his or her future prospects ruined because of one youthful mistake. After an expungement, many people feel that a frustrating part of their lives has been closed and they can move on with a new life. Those with an expunged criminal record do not hold their breath in nervous anticipation when an employer, bank, or state license agency runs a background check.
Contact Our Illinois Expungement Lawyers Today
If you or your loved one could benefit from an Illinois criminal record expungement, we can help. When you need an attorney, experience matters, contact Glasgow & Olsson today to schedule your free initial consultation.