The expression “there is no better time than the present” was first recorded in 1562. The theologian John Trusler amplified the expression by adding that “…a thousand unforeseen circumstances may interrupt you at a future time. (Proverbs Exemplified, 1790)

                A little over 450 years later this expression holds even greater weight. With record high unemployment, a serious pandemic and no clear end in sight, it might be easy to rely on hope. While hope springs this is also an opportunity to use this time to plan on the future, particularly if you have a criminal record.

                Illinois law has “banned the box.” Employers can no longer immediately ask about a felony conviction at the initial stages of a job application. That law simply delays the inevitable question. What someone in that position should do, sooner rather than later, is to see if that criminal record can be expunged or sealed. When the economy opens up fully, there will be some serious competition for certain jobs. Making sure a past mistake doesn’t hold you back protects your opportunities. An expungement or sealing assures that whatever opportunity comes your way is not lost because of a simple mistake from the past. Taking that step now, when Courts want to move as many cases as they can before the full reopening might provide a unique opportunity for you.

                Preparing for the end of the pandemic cannot start too soon. Don’t get caught later thinking to yourself “I should have taken care of this sooner.”  Don’t rely on a pocket full of posies – be the one who took full advantage of this time to prepare for the future. There really is no better time than the present.

                We have experienced lawyers who are ready to start the process of expunging your arrest.