Cook County, Illinois, has implemented a comprehensive Criminal History Record Policy that aims to ensure public safety and promote fairness in criminal justice. This policy governs the disclosure and use of criminal history records, and it encompasses several types of record policies, which include the Expungement Policy, Sealing Policy, and Information Sharing Policy. The Cook County Expungement Policy focuses on providing individuals with the opportunity to clear their criminal records under specific circumstances. A person may be eligible for expungement, which means erasure of their criminal record, if they were wrongfully arrested, acquitted in court, or if their charges were dismissed or dropped. The policy aims to give individuals a fresh start by removing any evidence of previous criminal involvement. The Sealing Policy in Cook County allows an individual's criminal record to be sealed, rather than expunged. Sealing means that the record is retained but only accessible to specific individuals or government entities under limited circumstances. It provides an opportunity for those who have been convicted of certain low-level offenses to have their records hidden from public view. Sealed records are not available for background checks conducted by employers or others, enhancing individuals' chances for employment and overall social reintegration. The Information Sharing Policy in Cook County revolves around the dissemination of criminal history records to authorized entities. This policy ensures that law enforcement agencies, government departments, and others with a legitimate need have access to accurate and relevant criminal history information. It establishes guidelines and protocols for information sharing to protect the privacy rights of individuals while enabling effective law enforcement and background checks. Cook County's Criminal History Record Policy acknowledges the importance of balancing public safety concerns with an individual's rights to privacy and reintegration. By implementing various record policies, it aims to facilitate opportunities for individuals to overcome their past mistakes and rebuild their lives while maintaining a safe environment for the community.
Para su conveniencia, debajo del texto en español le brindamos la versión completa de este formulario en inglés. For your convenience, the complete English version of this form is attached below the Spanish version.