Chicago Now's Real Law Blog discusses how individuals can clear their names and move on after being convicted of a crime, focusing on expungement and sealing of one's records. In theory, either process is used to give convicts a fresh start and escape the taint of a prior misfortune.
In Illinois, most misdemeanor convictions can be cleared from one's record after a period of time; most felonies, on the other hand, cannot. For example, a retail theft in the amount of $100 (or less) usually can be expunged or sealed after about five years or so; this is helpful when applying for a job, to give one example.
But, as Chicago DUI lawyers also would tell you, the one main exception is that a DUI conviction will remain on your record and can't be sealed or expunged; even if you were granted court supervision for the offense.
There are exceptions to the exception, however.
If your case was dismissed or if you were found not guilty, your record may be cleared. And if you have friends in high places or otherwise are able to snag a rare pardon from the governor, that's your second option.
As you can see, the state of Illinois takes drunk driving very seriously.
The author of the blog states that while not many pardon requests are granted by the governor, there actually are attorneys who will make the attempt. And since it's an election year, just imagine the political risks involved in pardoning someone who was busted for driving drunk. In other words, it's probably safe to say it's not really an option.
And if Gov. Quinn loses the election? It's still next to impossible, but probably a little less impossible than if he wins.
But if you were found not guilty (DUI trials are extremely rare) or if your case was dismissed, which is a little more common and often has to do with due process errors by the police, you may want to call a Chicago DUI attorney to see how you can clear your name.
Related Resources:
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Expungement Basics (FindLaw)
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Contact an Illinois DUI Lawyer (FindLaw)
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Getting Criminal Records Expunged: Need Up as Jobs Down (FindLaw's Law & Daily
