Illinois is on track to join the growing number of states adopting Clean Slate laws that automate parts of the criminal record–sealing process. The Clean Slate Act won’t automate expungement, but it will introduce new waiting periods, remove outdated barriers, and eventually automate the sealing of many convictions beginning in 2029. For anyone navigating record relief, understanding these upcoming changes is essential.
Read MoreIllinois law places specific waiting periods on when you can clear your criminal record, and filing too early can result in an automatic denial by the court. While some non-convictions require short delays before expungement, all convictions carry a three-year wait before they can be sealed—unless you qualify for the education waiver. Understanding these timelines can help you avoid setbacks and move toward a clean record more efficiently.
Read MoreClemency petitions in Illinois have slowed to a near standstill under Gov. J.B. Pritzker, leaving thousands waiting for relief. With few pardons or commutations granted in 2025, many Illinois residents seeking a second chance may find sealing or expunging a criminal record to be a more practical and timely path toward a clean slate.
Read MoreAlthough it’s been four years since I first wrote about obtaining a FOID card as a convicted felon, I still find myself spending a lot of time explaining to Illinois residents that there’s only one way to qualify for a FOID card when you have a disqualifying conviction: seek reinstatement of your gun rights by petitioning for clemency from the governor.
Read MoreIn recent years, with many people interested in driving for Uber, Lyft, or Amazon, there’s been a sharp increase in the number of people expressing an interest in expunging or sealing their traffic history.
But can a DUI be expunged in Illinois? or can you expounge a DUI in illinois? Read more to find out!
Read MoreTwice a year I submit FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests to the Illinois Prisoner Review Board (PRB) to obtain clemency (pardon and sentence commutation) data. Last year there was little to celebrate if you (or someone you know) had a pending pardon petition.
With Gov. J.B Pritzker understandably preoccupied last year (e.g., serving on President Biden’s reelection committee, hosting the Democratic Party Convention, etc.), it won’t take much for him to better his 2024 clemency stats.
Read More