Episode Summary: In this episode of Not Guilty Lawyers, Guns and Money, criminal defense attorney Edward Johnson breaks down the process of expungement in Illinois. Edward explains the difference between expungement and record sealing, who is eligible, and the impact on employment, travel, and firearms rights. He highlights common pitfalls when attempting to navigate the system alone and shares how professional guidance can streamline the process and protect your rights. Essential information for anyone looking to remove past arrests or convictions from their record.

Key Timestamps Summary:

00:00 – Understanding expungement and clearing your record in Illinois. 01:30 – Non-convictions, court supervision cases, and specific programs for drug offenses. 04:30 – Key differences and what each option does for your record. 06:30 – Overview of programs like SEED and statutes like 417 for eligibility. 09:30 – How expunged and sealed records appear (or don’t appear) to employers, landlords, and agencies. 12:00 – Why hiring an attorney increases success and helps manage documentation, hearings, and references. 15:00 – Factors that can slow the process or lead to objections by the state. 17:00 – How long expungement takes and what to expect from filing to approval.

About the Show: Not Guilty Lawyers, Guns and Money features Edward Johnson, a top criminal defense attorney in Illinois. Edward helps clients navigate complex criminal cases, expungements, and record sealing, providing practical guidance to protect reputations, rights, and futures.