How long does a criminal record stay on file in the state of Illinois?

Answer 1

Pretty much forever. One of the deterrents to committing a crime is that it stays around forever. It may be possible to get something expunged, and it may be worth it, but it can be difficult.

Answer 2

To request an expungement of your criminal record: You must have either been acquited or served the complete term of your sentence - then submit a petition to the court setting forth good reason(s) why your request should be granted. A judge will review your petition and the circumstances of your case and issue a ruling either granting or denying the request. AN EXPUNGEMENT IS NOT A PARDON! Law enforcement, the courts, and government agencies will always have access to your actual 'true' record. Expungement only removes the record of your offense from being viewed by the public. CONVICTED FELONS: If your request for expungement is granted - unless you are a resident of a state which completely or partially restores your "rights" (you will have to do research to see if your state of residence applies) - your status will still remain that of 'convicted felon' and you will remain subject to any restrictions that status places on you (e.g.- voting rights - privilege of holding elective office - firearms possession - etc). CAUTION: Unless your "rights" are restored it remains a FEDERAL felony offense for a convicted felon to ever own or possess a firearm. The United States Code, in some cases, makes the penalty for illegal possession of a firearm a mandatory minimum fifteen (15) years in prison. Title 18 U.S.C. sec 924(e)(1).

Answer 3

If the offense/conviction occurred after your 18th birthday it will always appear on your criminal record. Crimes are not like traffic "points." They do not "go away" after a certain length of time.

Answer 4

It depends greatly on the type of felony. For murder, rape, arson and others, there is no limit. The statute of limitations is going to be 3 years for lessor felonies. And it is tolled if the individual is not living in Illinois, or concealed the crime.