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Four-Part Special Series

Nearly 1,300 State Laws Prevent People with Criminal Records from Moving On After Serving Their Sentences

In Illinois, an estimated 3.3 million people have criminal records, which can include everything from an arrest to years spent in prison. But even after criminal cases have run their course, the punishment continues. The people who know the system best are working to make change for those looking to rebuild their lives.

Women, Caregivers Face Specific Challenges in Legal System

The reasons women commit crimes are different, and often overlooked, researchers say. And since 58% of incarcerated women are mothers to children under 18, the permanent punishments they face affect not only them, but their entire families.

Barriers to Employment Are Frequent, Plentiful for Those With Records

Many people who’ve been impacted by the criminal legal system say they frequently face problems finding employment. Some local organizations are helping people build new skills, while others are aiming to address laws and licensing requirements.

Sealed Records, Expungement and Clemency Involve Complicated Mix of Paperwork and Expenses

Though there are about 1,300 permanent punishments on the books in Illinois — and countless more that aren’t — there are only a handful of ways to get around them. Thar process often involves a complicated mix of paperwork and expenses. The records sealing or expungement process, for example, involves filing a petition in court that costs around $157 per charge.

More coverage

In History-Making Ceremony, Men in Prison Earn Degrees From Northwestern University: ‘We Want to Show What’s Possible’

Nov 11, 2023 | Brandis Friedman
(WTTW News)

Permanent Punishment: In Illinois, People with Criminal Records Can Still Vote. Advocates Are Working to Make Them Aware.

Oct 10, 2022 | Brandis Friedman
(WTTW News)

Reuben Jonathan Miller, Who Studies Long-Term Impacts of Incarceration, Awarded MacArthur Fellowship

Oct 10, 2022 | Blair Paddock
Maria Garza. (WTTW News)

Post-Incarceration, Women Often Face Difficulties Rebuilding Their Lives

Oct 10, 2022 | Erica Gunderson

Former Prosecutor, Judge Says People With Convictions Need Ability to Provide for Themselves

Oct 10, 2022 | Brandis Friedman

Permanent Punishment Conversation: Finding a Path Forward for the Formerly Incarcerated

Oct 10, 2022 | Erica Gunderson

Permanent Punishment Conversation: Companies Find Value in Employing Individuals Re-Entering Workforce After Prison

Oct 10, 2022 | Blair Paddock
(WTTW News)

Permanent Punishment Discussion: Barriers to Reentry

Oct 10, 2022 | Blair Paddock

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