Category Archives: Indiana Criminal Record Expungement

Discussing Indiana’s Second Chance Law

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The laws surrounding criminal record expungement in Indiana have recently changed. These changes took place on July 1, 2015, and renamed “The Second Chance Law” (I.C. 53-38-9). Before these revisions, anyone who was arrested or charged with a crime had to live with a permanent criminal record for the rest of their lives. But now, a person can have their criminal records expunged if they qualify.

But filing for criminal record expungement is not an easy task. The process is complex and tedious, varies from state to state, and requires a long list of perquisites in order to even qualify. This is why you need a criminal defense lawyer. They will be able to tell you whether or not you are eligible, and for assist you with the filing process. Just one mistake or written error will get your application denied, and you can only file for expungement once in your life. A lawyer will ensure that mistakes don’t happen.

Criminal Record Expungement

In order to qualify for criminal record expungement, a pre-set amount of time must pass since the charges were incurred. But more importantly, a record can only be expunged if:

1. The charges were later dropped because a judge determined no crime was committed;
2. The charges were later dropped because there was no probable cause;
3. The arrest never lead to criminal charges.

Additional Factors

Other factors that influence your eligibility for expungement includes their past criminal record, whether or not they complete and obeyed all court orders, and the amount of time since your last arrest. It is highly unlikely to get a major felony or violent crime expunged from your record, such as arson, sex offenses, carjacking, and more. There are several qualifications and requirements needed to apply for criminal record expungement, so it is important to learn these limits from a trusted and experienced criminal defense attorney.

Indianapolis Expungement Lawyers

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable criminal record expungement attorney, today. Our law firm works hard to ensure all arrangements and procedures are implemented with utmost exactitude and care. If you have questions about Indiana expungement laws and procedures, we are happy to answer them free of charge! Call 317-636-7514 to speak with Indianapolis expungement lawyers you can trust.

The Affordable Criminal Record Expungement Law Firm You’re Looking for in Indianapolis

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Ever since Indiana made changes to their criminal record expungement laws, thousands of past offenders have jumped at the opportunity to clear the criminal records for good. There are so many benefits that come with clearing your criminal history, making it no surprise why it is such a popular petition in Indiana. An improved criminal record can open up so many doors in terms of jobs, loans, housing, and much more. But because the petitioning process for criminal record expungement is so complex and sensitive, it is important to retain professional legal representation for help with filing all of the documents necessary for applying.

If you are interested in sealing your past criminal convictions and arrests for the sake of your future, you are in the right place! We are the licensed and experienced law firm that can provide Indiana criminal record expungement services and assistance at an affordable price.

A Truly Affordable Price!

Our law firm offers criminal record expungement assistance for as low as $850! The cost of your service will largely depend on the extent of your criminal history and the complexity of the case. We are criminal defense lawyers that have extensive hands-on experience in criminal law. And now, we are extremely well-versed in the new Indiana expungement laws! We know the exact process, paperwork, and procedures for filing for criminal record expungement in Indiana. We will make sure your petition goes through without any mistakes or errors whatsoever.

Free Initial Consultations!

We offer free initial consultation to discuss your case to determine your eligibility for, record expungement. Not everybody qualifies for criminal record expungement, so it is important to learn your eligibility first before wasting any time and effort applying. During your initial consultation, we will use our knowledge and resources to determine eligibility for expungement. If you qualify, we can afford that they are working on your petition!

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyers

Call 317-636-7514 if you are interested in learning about criminal record expungement in Indiana. You can trust us with your expungement petition because we care about your future and we have already helped numerous clients feel their criminal records in Indiana. Call 317-636-7514 to request a free estimate for Indiana criminal record expungement service, today.

Professional Licenses That Require a Criminal Background Check in Indiana

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A professional license signifies that a person is fully-trained and legally authorized to perform specialized services within their vocation. They are also tools to help people secure higher-paying jobs, promotions, and occupational flexibility. Obtaining a professional license in any industry requires extensive work, dedication, and even money. And in Indiana, it also requires a moderately-clean criminal record. More than 40 professional licenses mandate a national criminal background scan before they are issued by the state.

Indiana Criminal Background Checks

In Indiana, any person that applies for a professional license or certificate must pass a national criminal history check. This includes licenses and certificates for nursing, teaching, dentistry, and more. A national criminal background scan will reveal any arrests, criminal charges, incarcerations, diversion programs, rehabilitation programs, and even traffic violations since the age of 18. Juvenile records of arrests and convictions will not appear.

The contents of a person’s criminal record will influence a board’s decision to either approve or deny a professional license. When a person has a criminal record, it is entirely up to the discretion of a board to either approve or deny a license. They can also request the applicant’s presence to discuss the matter in person. Prior to an in-person appearance, it is likely for the board to request additional information regarding the details of a person’s criminal history.

Professional Licenses that Require a Criminal Background Scan:

✒ Teacher
✒ Dentist
✒ Dental Hygienist
✒ Physician
✒ Physician Assistant
✒ Chiropractor
✒ Veterinarian
✒ Registered Veterinary Technician
✒ Physical Therapist
✒ Physical Therapist Assistant
✒ Optometrist
✒ Pharmacist
✒ Pharmacy Technician
✒ Clinical Social Worker
✒ Social Worker
✒ Osteopathic Physician
✒ Respiratory Care Practitioner
✒ Registered Nurse
✒ Advanced Practice Nurse
✒ Clinical Addition Counselor
✒ Health Facility Administrator
✒ Marriage and Family Therapist
✒ Marriage and Family Therapy Associate
✒ Podiatrist
✒ Occupational Therapist
✒ Occupational Therapy Assistant
✒ Speech Pathologist
✒ Speech-Language Pathology Associate/Aid/Assistant
✒ Private Investigator Psychologist
✒ Nurse Mid-Wife
✒ Real Estate Appraiser
✒ Acupuncturist
✒ Audiologist
✒ Dietician
✒ Genetic Counselor
✒ Massage Therapist
✒ And More

 

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement

Call 317-636-7514 if you are planning to apply for a professional license but have a criminal record in Indiana. 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 about Indianapolis criminal record expungement, today.

Do You Have an Inaccurate Criminal Record?

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If someone were to run a background check on you, do you know what would show up? Sometimes, a person can get in trouble with the law, but never actually do time or receive a conviction. In these cases, an arrest that led to no conviction might make a person feel like their criminal record is not accurate, nor a representation of themselves.

For instance, if Ned was arrested and charged with rape, but then later the accuser admits she was lying, he would not be convicted. However, the record of being arrested and charged with rape will linger on his personal record forever even though he was found not guilty.

In another example, a person can commit a crime using a stolen identity, leading to the arrest of the wrong person later on. The falsely-arrested person, although entirely innocent, will have to live with the arrest and charges on their criminal record forever. If this is something that sounds familiar, you might want to think about your options in terms of fixing your criminal record.

Expunging Incorrect Criminal Records

In order to fix incorrect criminal records, a person must qualify, file, and be granted criminal record expungement. But in order for someone to qualify, one of five scenarios must be true:

☑ The arrest never led to criminal charges.
☑ The arrest never led to a conviction.
☑ The criminal charges were dropped as a result of mistaken identity.
☑ The criminal charges were dropped because no crime was committed.
☑ The criminal charges were later dropped a judge found no probable cause.

If you can answer yes to any of the above-listed scenarios, you will likely be granted expungement. That is, if you don’t have any pending criminal charges against you, and your record doesn’t have any other arrests or infractions other than minor traffic offenses. However, applicants can only petition for criminal record expungement one time in their lifetime. And just one simple mistaken, even a procedural mistake or spelling error, can get your petition denied. For this reason, it is important to hire a criminal defense lawyer to help you correct your criminal record.

Expunge Criminal Records in Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 to expunge criminal records in Indiana. We offer criminal record expungement services starting as low as $850! As a seasoned criminal defense law firm, we are well-versed in the new 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.

Am I Eligible For Criminal Record Expungement?

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Every state observes the laws of criminal record expungement differently. So depending on where your arrest or charges took place, the eligibility requirements may vary. In Indiana, legislation supports the notion that anyone who has an arrest on their record that never resulted in criminal charges deserves an opportunity to clear their arrest from the system. This is called expunging a criminal record, and is legal under various stipulations in Indiana.

For starters, a person must qualify for criminal record expungement, and the eligibility requirements are strict and complex. Continue reading to learn the eligibility requirements for criminal record expungement in Indiana, and who to call to get started as soon as today!

Eligibility Requirements in Indiana

There are several requirements that must be met before a person can expunge an arrest from their record. But overall, in order for a person to qualify for criminal record expungement one of two scenarios must be true:

1. Their arrest must never have led to criminal charges;

OR

2. Their charges were later dropped because: a) no crime was committed, b) mistaken identity, or c) no probable cause.

Here is an example:

Becky is a 16 year old high-school student who went to the mall to return a scarf she had bought the week before. She carried the scarf into the store in a shopping bag that was from another store. She didn’t go straight to the return counter because she saw some sales racks she wanted to look through first. The lady working the register approached her, and then found the scarf in her bag. Since Becky forgot her receipt, the lady assumed she had shoplifted the scarf, so she called the police. Becky was arrested on the spot and taken into custody. Later, the evidence showed she was in fact, not shoplifting, but simply forgot to bring her proof-of-purchase. In this scenario, Becky could have her shoplifting arrest expunged since charges were never filed against her. That way, the arrest will never show up on a background check.

In Indiana, criminal convictions cannot be expunged. Talk to a criminal record expungement attorney to see if you qualify.

File for Criminal Record Expungement

Call 317-636-7514 to file for criminal record expungement in Indiana. We are a seasoned criminal defense law firm that is well-versed in the laws and process surrounding Indiana criminal record expungement. We offer free initial consultations to determine your eligibility, so there is no out-of-pocket obligation to find out if you qualify! Call 317-636-7514 to get started, today.

Tips for Expunging an Eviction

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They stay on your record for life. Some states call it an “unlawful detainer”, but here in Indiana, it is simply known as an eviction. Life is unpredictable, and can easily throw you a curve ball at any moment. And sometimes that curve ball is trouble paying the rent. Whether you were evicted because a medical injury forced you out of work and you couldn’t make rent, or you had some other troubles that led to a long line of delinquent payments, evictions can be expunged from your permanent record, if you qualify. Continue reading to learn some valuable tips for expunging an eviction from your past.

Expungement

Expungement takes place when a judge seals a court record from public view and access. The only authorities that would still have access to an expunged record are judicial branches and law enforcement databases. Once a record is expunged, no public entity can access, such as employers, land lords, banks, and anyone running a background check.

Rental History

If you are unsure if there are evictions on your permanent record, use a free online portal to access your rental history, such as MyRentalHistoryReport.com. This will give you a clear answer as to how many evictions are on your personal file. Once you know that an eviction actually exists, you are ready to move forward with the expungement process. The first step is determining your eligibility.

Eligibility

Not everyone with an eviction on their record qualifies for expungement. In order to be eligible, you must be able to prove that the eviction was unlawful or had no factual basis. For instance, if you were evicted because you were habitually unable to pay rent on time or failed to pay all of your rent in full for the length of your rental agreement, it would be very difficult getting the eviction expunged. But this does not mean it is not possible. Always consult a record expungement attorney that is well-versed in the Indiana expungement process. They can tell you if you have a strong case and whether or not you should move forward with filing for expungement.

More Helpful Tips

One of the most important tips for expunging an eviction is to hire a criminal defense lawyer that offers expungement services. They have the knowledge and experience to aggressively challenge your eviction and win your case. They will ensure your expungement goes to plan. One mistake can cause irreversible damage to your case, and cause you to lose your opportunity to expunge an eviction altogether.

Also, never pay overdue rent AFTER an eviction. This will look bad on your part, and can make winning your care near-impossible. By paying owed-rent after you are evicted shows the court that you agree there was a legal or factual purpose for the eviction order in the first place.

It is most helpful if you can prove that you never violated your lease. If it is possible and true, presenting this evidence to the court will have a positive impact on their decision to expunge your eviction. This includes providing documentation of receipts for all rent paid on time, and proof that the property was left in acceptable conditions. If these two things are factual and proven, they are the two major components that could win your case.

Indianapolis Expungement Lawyer

Call 317-636-7514 to expunge an eviction in Indiana. We are an experienced criminal defense law firm that is well-versed in the new Indiana expungement laws. We offer expungement services starting as low as $850! We will vigorously challenge the allegations against you and provide constant support during the duration of your court hearings and filing process. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced Indianapolis expungement lawyer, today.

What is the Expungement Process for a Criminal Charge?

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Whether just an arrest or an actual conviction, a criminal charge can have adverse, on-going effects for minors and adults alike. These difficult, downward consequences can diminish a person’s quality of life in many ways, both personally and professionally. A delinquent criminal record can make it almost impossible to get approved for rental housing, home and business loans, and promotions or job opportunities.

Even if a person is hard-working, trustworthy, and ambitious, they can be held back from their true potential, personally and professionally, with a criminal record. Fortunately, many states have adopted new laws surrounding criminal record expungement, which allows certain individuals to seal or destroy their arrest and criminal records. This gives them back the opportunity to have a home, job, and reputation they can be proud of. Continue reading to learn the process for expunging a criminal charge, and how to get started as soon as today.

Expunging a Criminal Charge

There are three phases to the criminal charge expungement process: 1) Hiring a lawyer, 2) Filing a petition, and 3) Judicial review. The initial, and most important, step is to hire a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in expungement services. You need the assistance of a licensed attorney because the procedures and requirements for filing a motion for expungement are highly complex. Just one mistake, whether a misspelled name or missing document, can cost a person their only chance to apply for criminal record expungement. This is because the law only allows a person to file once in their lifetime, no matter what the circumstances. A qualified criminal defense lawyer can navigate this process for you to ensure everything is done correctly.

The second phase to the criminal expungement process is to file a petition in the county, or counties, where your convictions and arrests took place. If you have multiple arrests or convictions, they can be filed as one petition so long as they are completed within a one year window. This phase should be handled by your legal representative, during which they will file the necessary petitions and provide the necessary documentation in each county of your arrests and convictions, all in due time. During this phase, you will be required to pay a court filing fee for a petition for expungement, which generally costs between $140 and $170 in most Indiana courts. It is possible for this fee to be waived in some cases. If you are petitioning to expunge an arrest that never led to a conviction, there is no filing fee.

The third phase of the criminal expungement process is the judicial review stage. This is when the courts will either grant or deny a person’s petition for expungement. If denied, either from court discretion or procedural errors, you must wait three years before filing again, and cannot file for the same criminal convictions as before. If granted expungement, all previously-lost civil rights and privileges are restored. A person can legally state that they were never convicted of such crime on job applications, mortgage loans, tenant applications, and more.

Criminal Expungement Services

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! Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a no-risk consultation for criminal record expungement in Indianapolis, IN today.

When Can I Expunge My DUI Charge?

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A drunk driving charge on your criminal record can be detrimental in many ways. It can hold you back from being approved for certain types of licenses, like commercial drivers’ licenses and forklift certifications. It can also prevent you from being a possible candidate for a competitive job position or promotion. And for felony DUI cases, it can prevent you from being employed entirely. For these reason and many more, expunging or sealing a DUI conviction on your criminal records is in your best interest.

Unfortunately, not everyone will qualify for criminal record expungement, as there are various perquisites, limitations, and conditions. So it is important to discuss your eligibility with an experienced lawyer who is well-versed in your state’s expungement laws and procedures. It is also important to file your expungement applications perfectly, because one simple filing error (like a misspelled name) will get your application denied; and you can only apply for criminal expungement ONCE in your life.

An experienced criminal attorney can facilitate the application and filing process for you in order to avoid mistakes and increase your chances of being approved. They will navigate your case accurately to ensure you have done everything right on your part. Continue reading to learn some facts about DUI expungement and who to trust for proficient legal representation when the time comes to apply yourself.

DUI Expungement

When a person is arrested for driving under the influence, they are often convicted of a “DUI”, also known as an OWI (operated while intoxicated), and DWI (driving while intoxicated). The acronym used largely depends on the state and county, but it is wise to know they all mean the exact same thing. A DUI charge doesn’t always pertain to “drunk” driving either, since a person can be intoxicated by other substances, like narcotic medication and illicit drugs. Whether your DUI was a result of alcohol or drugs, the terms of criminal record expungement are the same. On the other hand, the severity of the crime and your personal criminal history will determine the amount of time that needs to pass before you are eligible to apply for expungement.

For instance, if you were convicted of a misdemeanor in Indiana (or Level 6 felony reduced to a misdemeanor), you have to wait at least 5 years from the date of conviction, among a list of other conditions. Other conditions include:

• No other criminal convictions in the past 5 years
• No current drivers’ license suspension
• No current, further, or pending criminal charges
• All sentencing requirements have been met
(i.e. probation, community service, fines, etc.)

If you were convicted of a Level 6 DUI felony, time lengths increase to 8 years while all other above-mentioned conditions remain the same.

If you were convicted of a more serious DUI felony than a LEVEL 6, the 8-year time line and conditions stay the same, however, a court may or may not approve the expungement.

Talk to a licensed criminal defense attorney that is well-versed and experienced with the Indiana criminal record expungement laws and procedures. They are the best resource for making sure your DUI record expungement filing and paperwork is carried out faultlessly, giving you a better chance of approval.

An Indianapolis Expungement Lawyer You Can Trust

Call 317-636-7514 for professional and affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis. Don’t think you can afford to expunge DUI criminal records in Indiana? Think again! Our expungement legal services start as low as $850! Schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your criminal records, and determine your eligibility. Call 317-636-7514 to finally expunge DUI records in Indiana, today!

Can You Expunge Federal Convictions?

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Criminal record expungement allows those who qualify to legally have their past criminal convictions destroyed and made never available to the general public again. The only party that retains access of an individual’s expunged records is the Department of Justice, for evidence and reference purposes. Many question however, if federal convictions can also be expunged. The quick answer is, “yes, but it depends.”

Dismissed By the Court

To expunge a federal record, a court must dismiss the conviction. In order to begin, a petition for expungement must be filed with the Attorney General’s Office. Generally, and mostly because of the complexities involved, most defendants hire a criminal defense attorney to accurately facilitate the petition. Something as small as a miss-spelled name or missing document can be cause for disqualification. An experience lawyer knows how to execute a petition for expungement, flawlessly.

In order to qualify for federal record expungement, certain prerequisites must be met by the applicant. If none of the requirements are met, a defendant is denied expungement. Below are the list of perquisites to qualify for federal record expungement.

Federal Expungement may be possible if…

• At Least 3-5 Years Has Passed Since the Federal Conviction
• The Defendant Never Received a Civil Penalty for the Crime
• All Penalties for the Crime Have Been Served
• The Defendant Has No State or Federal Convictions for Controlled Substances
• The Defendant Agrees to a Drug Screen and Tests Negative
• The Defendant Cooperates With All Attorney General Conditions
• The Defendant Was Convicted Based on a Law that was Later Found to Be Unconstitutional
• A Judge Decides the Conviction was a result of Government Misconduct

Once a federal record is expunged, all official records and references of a conviction is erased, with the exception of the Department of Justice. If you were charged with a felony offense in the past, you may be eligible to have it expunged today.

Expungement in Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 to speak with a licensed criminal defense lawyer about expunging felony records in Indiana. We can help determine your eligibility and process your application for expungement. Whether arrested for state or federal charges, and convicted or not, you may qualify for criminal record expungement in Indiana! Call our office at 317-636-7514 to learn more about expunging criminal records, today.

Clarification of Indiana Adult Criminal Record Expungement

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Any person with a criminal record can expect a few road blocks along the way. This is especially pertinent when it comes to applying for a job or renting a home. Landlords, supervisors, and managers commonly inquire about criminal histories to better understand the candidate and their ability to perform well on the job or care for a home.

If a person has a criminal record, past convictions, or arrests on their personal and public record, getting hired or approved for a rental is difficult and almost improbable. Fortunately, a new law has passed allowing past convicts or persons with criminal histories, to seal their adult criminal records from agencies and organization such as these. Continue reading to learn more about expunging adult criminal records and how to get started in your home town.

What Does it Mean to Seal a Person’s Criminal Records?

Criminal record expungement refers to the process in which a person hides or seals their past criminal convictions and arrests from public access. This means if a landlord or potential employer asks if you’ve been arrested and convicted of a crime, you can legally say no. There are several details and stipulations that are involved with the expungement process; which is why a lawyer is highly recommended. Not everyone is eligible for expungement so it is important to outsource professional legal assistance to facilitate the process exactly the way it should. If a person qualifies for expungement but makes a single mistake during the filing process, they lose out on dealing their records and cannot ever file again. You only get one chance to seal adult criminal records.

Eligibility Requirements for Record Expungement

When it comes to criminal record expungement, there are rules and requirements that a person must have. For example, depending on the type of charges, a person must wait at least five years from the date of conviction to even think about filing for record expungement. For more serious crimes, a person must wait at least 8 to 10 years from the date of arrest. Also, not all records are eligible for expungement; such as kidnapping, rape, murder, etc. It is important to hire a qualified and licensed attorney that specializes in criminal record expungement services. Because this law is new, there are many novice expungement services available; but be sure to choose a reputable law firm that genuinely understands the law and everything it entails.

Indiana Expungement Services

Call 317-636-7514 for more information about adult criminal record expungement in Indiana. Our licensed criminal defense team retains all current industry knowledge and requirements for criminal expungement and record sealing in Indiana. We can help you determine your eligibility right now! We offer free consultations, advice, useful addresses and court phone numbers, and services start as low as $850! If you wish to learn more about expunging criminal records in Indianapolis, call 317-636-7514 and get started on a path to the fresh beginning you rightfully deserve.