Expunging or Sealing a Criminal Record in Hancock County

Having an arrest or conviction on your record can create barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible to have your record expunged or sealed through the Hancock County Circuit Court. We provide an overview of the process, eligibility resources, and the forms needed to get started.

Determining Eligibility

People with qualifying arrests and convictions may request the court in their sentencing county to expunge or seal their records. These resources can help determine eligibility.

Filing Fees & Case Classification

  • Case Type

    Effective October 1, 2024, all Requests to Expunge and/or Seal must be filed as MX (Miscellaneous Criminal) cases.

  • Adult Filing Fee ($120)

    This total covers court filing, document copying, postage/mailing for required notices, and processing fees for the Illinois State Police.

    Refund Policy: If your request is denied by the Court, the $60 State Police fee will be refunded to you.

  • Juvenile Records

    There is no fee to file a request to expunge a juvenile record.

Expungement & Sealing Forms

Statewide approved forms for expungement or sealing are available directly through the Illinois Courts website.

Download Forms

Agency Addresses Required

When submitting your petition, you must provide mailing addresses for all required parties and agencies. This includes:

  • The Illinois State Police

  • Every local police department or law enforcement agency involved in each case listed on your petition

What to Expect After Filing

  • Objection Window (60 days)

    Notified agencies have up to 60 days from receiving your petition to file an official objection with the court.

  • Court Date (80-90 days)

    The Circuit Clerk will schedule your court date roughly 80 to 90 days after your initial filing date to allow time for agency responses.