When Can I Expunge My Level 6 Felony?

Since Indiana passed the criminal record expungement laws, many people have marveled at the opportunity to clean up their criminal histories and start a new life, career, family, and more. But, as it the old saying goes, “all good things come to those who wait,” those who want to expunge their criminal records must wait until they are eligible, if eligible at all. You see, there are requirements you must pass in order to qualify for criminal record expungement. One of the common qualifications that vary depending on the crime is time. As for felonies, the time is even longer.

Continue reading to learn how much longer you must wait to be eligible to expunge your Level 6 felony, or Class D Felony in Indiana.

How Long Must You Wait to Clear Up Your Felony Record?

The Second Chance Law in Indiana

Indiana passed some laws a few years back, known as Indiana’s Second Chance Law, that allows those who qualify to remove or seal their criminal records from public access, including schools, employers, and standard people. Although there are several prerequisites for qualifying for criminal record expungement, the most basic and congruent across the board is time. As for Level 6 Felonies, which to some are actually Class D Felonies from before the moniker was changed, Indiana makes you wait at least 8 years from the date of the conviction, not the date of the arrest.

The Indiana Criminal Code changes to the felony criminal punishment scale took effect on July 1, 2014. What used to be categorized as a Class D Felony is now called a Level 6 felony.

Class A Misdemeanor Expungement

There are many defendants whose Level 6 felonies are reduced to Class A Misdemeanors. It is common for Level 6 felonies to be called “wobblers” in the criminal industry because they are crimes that tend to border on the line of two levels of punishment. In this case, the defendant convicted of a Class A Misdemeanor after it was reduced from a Level 6 or Class D felony, can qualify for Indiana’s Second Chance Act after 5 years from the date of the conviction.

Where to Get Criminal Record Expungement Services in Indianapolis

Call 317-636-7514 for criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are well-versed in Indiana’s Second Chance Law, and can help you seal or expunge criminal records in all Indiana counties. Our services are economically-priced, and start as low as $850! Contact us to schedule a no-risk consultation for criminal record expungement in Indianapolis, IN today.

Criminal Record Expungement Attorney Indiana
Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Attorney 317-636-7514

How to Resolve to Get a Better Job in the New Year

New Year’s Resolutions are a steadfast tradition among various cultures, religions, and ethnicities all across the world. From making more money to getting more fit, people resolve to do many things in the coming New Year. And why not? After all, the start of a brand new year is the perfect time to start a brand new you. But if your New Year’s Resolution is to get a better job, whether better paying, better located, or better quality, honoring your resolve might not be as easy as some of the other resolutions.

However, if a criminal record is the very stigma holding you back from reaching your business or career goals, you can change this in the New Year. By petitioning for criminal record expungement, you can hide or seal your criminal record, and thus place yourself in a better and more hire-able position. Whether it’s that promotion you’re after, a bigger paycheck, or simply to be happier in your profession, criminal record expungement might be the exact answer you’ve been looking for all the time.

Continue reading to learn how it works, how to qualify, and how to get started on your petition in the New Year.

Wipe Your Slate Clean to

Get Better Pay in 2021!

A Cleaner Record Sets the Path for a Better Career

Those with criminal records, especially recent arrests or convictions, or very serious ones, understand the struggle with getting a good job. These days, running a background check on a potential hire is as easy as logging into your favorite app, or submitting an email. There are many innovative portals and online resources that allow the public to access a person’s criminal history at just a click of a button. Most background check portals are free, but the more comprehensive ones, such as the ones used by employers interviewing potential hires, are not free.

How Criminal Expungement Works

Also known as the Second Chance Law here in Indiana, criminal record expungement ordinances allow those with past arrests, criminal charges, or criminal convictions to seal or hide their records from the general public. This would include any potential employers. Now, not everyone qualifies, or just, not yet qualifies. Not only do you have to wait a certain number of years from the date of the arrest or conviction, but you must also have remained a law-abiding citizen ever since. These are just the two primary prerequisites, as there are many more.

It is important to hire a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in criminal record expungement services to represent your petition. There are many reasons for this. First, expungement petitions are incredibly complex, and one tiny error can cause your petition to be denied, forever. It is forever because petitioners can only file one time for expungement. If you are denied, for let’s say a missed deadline, or using white paper when it should have been green, you lose your chance of ever filing again. It is also important to hire a lawyer to confirm that you are eligible. As mentioned, the prerequisites are quite detailed, and vary from individual to individual.

Once you are granted criminal record expungement rights, by law, potential employers must treat you as though you were never arrested or convicted of the expunged offense or offenses.

How to Start a Petition for Criminal Record Expungement in Indiana

Call our Law Office at 317-636-7514 to learn your eligibility for criminal record expungement in Indiana. We are skilled criminal defense lawyers who are eager to help you get the fresh start in life that you deserve! Our services start as low as $850, so you can afford to clean up your record just as much as the next guy. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation, today.

Criminal Record Expungement Attorney Indiana
Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Attorney 317-636-7514

What Can I Do With My Life After Criminal Record Expungement?

Now that Indiana allows those with past arrest and criminal records to expunge or seal them from public access, you might be ready to clean up your criminal history and start a new life. Not sure what to expect after you have been granted criminal record expungement or sealing? Continue reading to learn what type of life you can expect to lead once your criminal history is no longer holding you back from opportunity.

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Criminal Record Expungement Assistance 317-636-7514

The Top Benefits of Record Expungement

The chief benefit to expunging criminal records is preventing this type of access to personal information. You see, if a person is granted criminal record expungement, their past arrests and criminal histories are expunged permanently from their legal profile. Criminal expungement can offer countless benefits for the previously charged and accused, even persons with felonies on their record!

It Comes With Certain Limitations

There are many stipulations and limitations when it comes to applying or assessing eligibility for expungement. For example, a person could only file or applied one time in their life; and if any paperwork or application process is done incorrectly, this person loses their opportunity to expunge the criminal records forever. To prevent this from happening, people are highly encouraged to hire a licensed attorney to facilitate application process for you. Continue reading to learn what you can expect what’s your criminal records are expunged.

Important Information You Need to Know

Here are several scenarios, advantages, benefits, and circumstances that a person can expect to experience if they are granted criminal record expungement and have their arrest records and more restricted from public access permanently:

► Misdemeanors, Arrests, and Most Felonies are Concealed on Personal Records

► Employers, Landlords, and the General Public Cannot View Criminal or Personal Records on Background Checks

► More Opportunities for Employment are Available

► Criminal and Arrest Records are Removed from Court Files, Drivers’ License Branches, Department of Corrections’ Files, Substance Abuse Counselor Records, Police Records, and More

► Various Personal Rights are Restored

► Driving Records Can Be Repaired

► Embarrassment and Personal Shame Greatly Diminish

► Peace of Mind Having a Clear Record

Unfortunately, not everybody will qualify for expungement. As mentioned before, there are various restrictions and prerequisites that a person must meet in order to be eligible and receive a grant to have their records expunged. For example, for arrest and misdemeanors to be expunged it must be at least five years since the initial arrest. These types of restrictions are the kind of prerequisites you can expect when applying for expungement.

Where to Get Help With Criminal Record Expungement in Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 to get started on the Indiana criminal record expungement application process. We offer professional criminal record expungement services starting as low as $850! As a seasoned criminal defense law firm, we are well-versed in the Indiana expungement laws, and know exactly how to file and obtain a legal expungement, successfully. Call our office at 317-636-7514 and schedule a free initial consultation to determine your eligibility, today.

Do Teenagers Have the Right to Expunge Arrest Records in Indiana?

When a person has a criminal record, it can create a downhill spiral of consequences for life.  Whether a person was arrest, convicted, or both, a record will hold them back from certain benefits and advantages in normal society. Taking out a bank loan, applying for a job opening, renting an apartment, and more can create obstacles for someone who has been arrested or convicted of a crime. The good news is that a person can now have their arrest records purged in certain states if they qualify.  The better news is that teenagers can also petition for criminal record expungement in Indiana.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about juvenile criminal record expungement in Indiana, including how to turn in an application before the end of the year.

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer 317-636-7514
Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer 317-636-7514

The Definition of a Juvenile

An individual who is 17 years old or younger is considered a juvenile in the eyes of the law. When a kid under the age of 18 years old is arrested for a crime, they are generally charged as a juvenile. But if they are over the age of 14, and the crime they committed was a serious felony, the courts and state may decide to try them as an adult. In these cases, the crimes are pretty serious or extensive. Courts do this to not only set an example, but to also make a point to service the right amount of justice where deserved.

To clear up the confusion, a minor is someone who is restricted to do something due to their age, such as smoking, drinking alcohol, and voting. A juvenile can be a juvenile and a minor, while someone who is 18 is not a juvenile, but being under the age of 21 makes them a minor in terms of alcohol.

When a Juvenile is Tried as an Adult

If a minor is over the age of 14, and the crime they commit is serious, the state may decide to try them as an adult. In terms of expungement, a juvenile must wait a certain number of years, without committing any other crimes in between, before they can even qualify at all. Once this time limit is up, generally between 5 and 8 years, they can begin to inquire about further eligibility. But some crimes are never eligible for expungement, including murder, sex crimes, arson, human trafficking, and more.

Expunging Misdemeanor Arrests

If a minor was convicted of a lesser crime, such as a misdemeanor or Level 6 felony, there is possibility for expungement. Depending on their past criminal history, this eligibility may change. Whether a juvenile was tried as an adult or not, there may be a chance for qualification. Each individual case is different, which is why it is important to consult a licensed criminal lawyer for accurate evaluation and

How to Turn in Your Juvenile Expungement Application in Indiana

Call our Indianapolis criminal record expungement lawyers at 317-636-7514 if you would like to petition for restricted access or expunge an arrest from your criminal record in Indiana. We are happy to provide free initial consultations to discuss your case without any out-of-pocket obligations. Don’t let price worry you. Our rates start as low as $850! Whether you are looking to seal or expunge a criminal record, we are the criminal lawyers to trust for a hassle-free petitioning process. Take advantage of this Indiana expungement law and get your criminal record expunged this year!

When Should I Apply for Criminal Record Expungement?

Now that you are aware there is an option for expunging or sealing arrest records, you might be eager to get started. But before you do, you must first determine if you are eligible yet. Continue reading to learn whether or not right now is a good time to petition for expungement, as well as, how to get started on your application.

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Assistance
Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Assistance 317-636-7514

Timing is Vital With Expungement Petitioning

There are various factors that influence a defendant’s eligibility for expungement because there are several requirements and restrictions set by the state. One of the central elements to being eligible is the amount of time that has passed since your last arrest or conviction. These time limitations and similar prerequisites vary from state to state, so it is important to discuss your eligibility with a licensed criminal defense lawyer who is well-versed in the new laws and procedures.

Eligibility for Criminal Record Expungement or Sealing

If you are currently on probation or parole, or have pending criminal charges against you, now is not the time to start your petition. However, if you are more interested in expunging criminal records from a long time ago, you may still have a chance. Again, you must consult a seasoned criminal defense lawyer for assistance in determining your eligibility status.

Aside from time and current criminal charges, another important factor is the type of criminal records you wish to expunge or seal. There are two types of individuals that can petition for criminal record expungement: those who have been convicted of a misdemeanor or violation (or a series of them) arising from a single incident, and those who have been charged with a criminal offense but was 1) found not guilty, 2) charges were dismissed with prejudice, but not in exchange for a guilty plea or plea bargain.

Essential Tips for Choosing an Expungement Lawyer

The petition process is so complex and rigorous. For this reason, it is strongly encouraged to hire a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in expungement services, and who can assist you with the process. One of the rules to expunging a criminal record is that a person can only file ONCE IN A LIFETIME. If a spelling error or similar minor mistake is made during the filing process, it could revoke your chance to expunge your criminal record, forever. A lawyer will help you with every aspect of filing, paperwork, deadlines, and more, and ensure your petition is managed correctly.

How to Start Your Expungement Petition in Indiana

Call our Indianapolis criminal record expungement lawyers at 317-636-7514 if you would like to petition for restricted access or expunge an arrest from your criminal record in Indiana. We are happy to provide free initial consultations to discuss your case without any out-of-pocket obligations. And our rates start as low as $850! Whether you are looking to seal or expunge a criminal record, we are the criminal lawyers to trust for a hassle-free petitioning process. Take advantage of this opportunity and get your criminal record expunged this year!

Do All States Allow Criminal Record Expungement?

With so many laws being passed and repealed every day, it’s hard to keep up. And although most people are unaware of new laws being passed in their state, there is one new law that many cannot afford to ignore. Criminal record expungement is now legal in several states within the country. This new law allows past criminals to seal or restrict their past arrests and convictions from public view. There are endless benefits to this law, but not all states have approved it yet.

Continue reading to learn more about criminal record expungement and which states have approved the law.

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer
Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer 317-636-7514

Expunging Criminal Records

The new criminal record expungement laws have the ability to change people’s lives in a dramatic way. With certain criminal records weighing over a person’s head and lingering on their public record, there are certain consequences. Aside from criminal stigma and judgement, a criminal record can hold a person back from any benefits that require a background check. This includes applying for a loan, renting an apartment, getting a job, and more.

Now, in cooperating states, people have the opportunity to have these past criminal records sealed or restricted from the public, with the exception of police and government officials. This allows people to take advantage of certain benefits, like better jobs and home loans, and live a better life. Most states have adopted this new criminal record expungement law, but some are still lingering on the back burner. Since most states have not approved and passed this new law, it is more efficient to list the ones that have so far.

Here is a list of states that allow criminal record expungement:

  • Indiana
  • Arizona
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Florida
  • Illinois
  • Missouri
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Oregon
  • Ohio
  • Utah
  • Texas
  • Tennessee
  • Washington

Although these states have approved the criminal expungement law, it is not a permanent law. They have only approved it for a trial period. And since there are several opposed to this law, there is no telling when or if it will get repealed. This means it is important to take advantage of this opportunity while it lasts. The only catch is that not everyone will qualify for criminal record expungement.

There are guidelines that one must meet to be eligible to conceal or expunge their criminal records. This is why it is necessary to hire a licensed criminal attorney for accurate and professional help. A person can only file one time in their life, and just one mistake can take that chance away. A lawyer can determine your eligibility and ensure everything is carried out precisely.

How to Start Criminal Record Expungement in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 if you have a criminal record in Indiana that you would like to clean up this year. Our law firm is well-versed in the Indiana criminal record expungement laws, and charges as low as $850 for our services. Whether you are looking to seal or expunge a criminal record, we are the criminal lawyers to trust for a hassle-free petitioning process. Call 317-636-7514 to learn more, today.

What You Have the Right To When Stopped By Police

When you are stopped by police, whether in a public place or in your vehicle, you have certain rights, but you also have to follow certain rules. And just like you, the officer has certain rights and rules too. It is okay to not know these rules and rights, but important to learn them in the case that a cop ever stops you. Continue reading to learn about “cop stops” and how long police can detain you without making an arrest.

Criminal Record Expungement Attorney
Criminal Record Expungement Attorney 317-636-7514

The Rules of Police Stops

Cops are allowed to stop anyone for a certain period of time without arresting them, for purposes of determining whether or not a crime is being or was committed. Although law enforcement can stop a person and detain them without arrest, they cannot detain them for an unreasonable amount of time or indefinitely without making an arrest and filing charges. This violates our constitutional right against unreasonable searches and seizures. But “when” and “for how long” a cop can stop you without making an arrest is a little ambiguous since it depends on the particular circumstances of the encounter.

What to Expect During a Police Encounter

During a typical police encounter, the amount of time they detain you will vary depending on the situation. But the reasonable amount of time for a cop to stop someone without arresting them would be however long it takes to ask them for name, address, date of birth, a photo identification, and a few questions. This is what you should expect during a typical police encounter. If you are in your vehicle, they may ask for additional documents, including vehicle registration, drivers’ license, car insurance, and title.

As the person on the other end of the cop stop, you should always behave respectfully and cooperate with police. Simply refusing to identify yourself gives them the right to arrest you. Even if they are being unethical, you must remember they have the power at the moment. So, it is important to clearly identify yourself, provide the documents they request, and be as agreeable and polite as possible. This will increase your chances of being excused. Keep in mind that you do not have to answer their questions since you have the right to remain silent, but always be polite, and never argue or lie to police. You can simply say, “I do not wish to answer any questions” and they will move forward.

If you were convicted of a crime, but believe that you were wrongly accused or tried, contact a criminal record expungement lawyer to clear your record of this arrest and conviction!

How to Clean Up Your Criminal Record in Indiana

Call our Indianapolis expungement lawyers at 317-636-7514 if you have a criminal record in Indiana that you would like to clean up this year. Our law firm is well-versed in the Indiana criminal record expungement laws, and charges as low as $850 for our services. Whether you are looking to seal or expunge a criminal record, we are the criminal lawyers to trust for a hassle-free petitioning process. Call 317-636-7514 to learn more, today.

The Difference Between Federal Law and State Law

When you or someone you love is facing criminal charges, it is wise to start doing your research in order to better understand the law and what you might expect during the judicial process. The most fundamental place to start is to learn the difference between state and federal law. One area of law involves misdemeanor convictions, while the other deals with felonies.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about state and federal law, including what they are, when they were created, who created them, their constitutional power, and much more.

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State and Federal Criminal Record Expungement Attorney 317-636-7514

State Law

State law refers to the laws that each individual state in the United States of America use to govern their citizens. They are sanctioned by the state legislature, and implemented upon the governor’s signature. State laws are only applicable in their own state, however, many states share the same types of laws. Not only do these laws pertain to both residents and visitors to the state, they also apply to business entities, corporations, and all other organizations that operate within the state borders.

When a person breaks a law on a state level, they face being convicted of a misdemeanor. There are multiple levels of misdemeanors, all of which come with their own separate set of penalties and repercussions.

Federal Law

Federal law was created by the United States Congress. Before a law can become a federal one, a bill must be passed by both houses of Congress, and signed off by the President of the United States. These laws pertain to everyone in all 50 states in the country, regardless of citizenship. The U.S. Constitution shapes the foundation for federal law by establishing government power and responsibility, as well as protecting citizen rights.

When a person breaks a law on a federal level, they face being convicted of a felony offense. There are multiple levels of felonies, all of which come with their own separate set of penalties and repercussions. Common federal offenses include murder, sexual assault, fraud, theft, and drug trafficking.

Want to Remove Misdemeanors and Felonies From Your Criminal Record? Look to Expungement.

State and Federal Criminal Record Expungement

In order for a federal charge to be expunged from a person’s criminal record, the conviction must have been dismissed by the court. Once a federal record is expunged, all official records and references of a conviction is erased, with the exception of the Department of Justice.

To expunge an arrest, charge, or conviction on a state level, a pre-determined amount of time must pass by since the date of the charge. Additionally, a state criminal record can only be expunged if the charges were later dropped because a judge determined no crime was committed, were later dropped because there was no probable cause, or the arrest never lead to criminal charges.

Learn More About Qualifying for Indiana Record Expungement

Call our Indianapolis criminal defense law firm at 317-636-7514 if you would like to petition for restricted access or expunge an arrest from your criminal record in Indiana. We are happy to provide free initial consultations to discuss your case without any out-of-pocket obligations. And our rates start as low as $850! Whether you are looking to seal or expunge a criminal record, we are the criminal lawyers to trust for a hassle-free petitioning process. Take advantage of this opportunity and get your criminal record expunged this year!