What Happens to My Record if Charges Are Dismissed? — Defending Freedom

Attorneys Chris Combs and Joshua Boardman from Combs Waterkotte discuss everything you need to know about Illinois sex crime charges, including sexual assault, sexual abuse, rape, and more.

In Illinois, if sex crime charges are dismissed, your criminal record may still reflect the arrest. However, dismissed charges may qualify for expungement, and certain records may be automatically sealed. Expungement can remove eligible arrest and court records, while sealing generally restricts public access. Eligibility depends on the outcome of the case, the specific offense, and other circumstances. Consult a criminal defense attorney to explore your options.

Combs Waterkotte is a leading criminal and felony defense law firm serving Chicago, Cook County, and communities throughout Illinois and Missouri. Our sex crime defense attorneys fight to protect your freedom, rights, and future. With over 600 reviews and extensive criminal defense experience, we are prepared to help you navigate serious criminal allegations.

If you are facing sex crime charges in Illinois, call (618) 88-CRIME or (312) 500-HELP in Chicago, Cook County, and Northern Illinois, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

If you're under investigation or have been arrested for a sex crime, our attorneys act quickly to protect your constitutional rights, challenge evidence, and pursue reduced charges, dismissal, or acquittal whenever possible.

Sex crime cases often involve complex investigations, aggressive prosecutors, and potentially life-altering consequences. At Combs Waterkotte, we carefully examine the evidence, challenge unlawful searches and procedural errors, and build a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.

We help people just like you, every day, no matter the charge. We understand how stressful criminal allegations can be and are ready to help you protect your rights and future.