Can You Expunge a Misdemeanor in Illinois?
Having a misdemeanor on your record can feel like a weight you can’t shake. Whether it was a one-time mistake or something that didn’t even result in a conviction, the good news is — you might be able to expunge it and move forward with confidence.
Criminal defense attorney, Alan Lenczycki, explains more below.
You Can Expunge a Misdemeanor in Illinois If:
You may be eligible if any of these apply to your case:
You were found not guilty
Your case was dismissed, including:
SOL (Stricken Off with Leave to Reinstate)
Non-Suit
Nolle Prosequi
You successfully completed court supervision, except:
DUI supervision cannot be expunged
Reckless driving supervision can only be expunged if you were under 25 at the time of sentencing
You completed a qualified probation, such as:
710–1410 Probation
Second Chance Probation
TASC Probation
How Long Do You Have to Wait?
Your waiting period depends on how your case was resolved.
You Can File for Expungement Immediately If:
You were found not guilty
Your case was dismissed as a nolle prosequi
Wait 120–160 Days If:
Your case was dismissed via SOL or Non-Suit
Wait 2 Years After Completing Court Supervision If:
The charge was not for domestic battery or criminal sexual abuse
Common eligible offenses include:
Assault or Battery
Theft or Retail Theft
Criminal Trespass or Damage to Property
Resisting Arrest
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Wait 5 Years If:
You completed court supervision or qualified probation for:
Criminal Sexual Abuse
OR any sentence under 710–1410, Second Chance, or TASC Probation
What If You Were Convicted?
If you were convicted of a misdemeanor and didn’t qualify for the probation programs above, you won’t be eligible for expungement — but don’t give up. You may still qualify to seal your record.
What’s the Difference?
Expungement = your record is completely erased
Sealing = your record is hidden from most employers, but not all (some government jobs or fingerprint-based checks can still see it)
Ready to Clear Your Record? Talk to Grayslake Attorney Alan Lenczycki
Navigating the expungement process in Illinois isn’t easy — but you don’t have to do it alone.
Attorney Alan Lenczycki has helped clients in Lake County and beyond get a clean slate and reclaim their future. Whether you’re eligible for expungement or need to explore sealing, he’ll walk you through every step.
Contact Alan today for a free consultation and find out if your past can finally stay in the past. 847-262-9888
