How Much Does it Cost to Expunge Criminal Records in Indiana?

Clearing your criminal record can be a life-changing step toward a fresh start, opening doors to meaningful employment, housing opportunities, and personal growth. Indiana’s Second Chance Law makes this possible by allowing individuals to expunge or seal eligible criminal records. However, one question that often comes up is, “How much does it cost to expunge criminal records in Indiana?”

If you’re considering beginning this legal process, understanding the potential costs involved can help you plan ahead. This blog will break down the factors impacting the cost of expungement, the typical expenses you should expect, and how to minimize them.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have valuable insights to make an informed decision—and we’ll help you take the next step with our affordable Indianapolis criminal record expungement services.

Call 317-636-7514 for Affordable Expungement Assistance in Indianapolis Indiana

What Is Criminal Record Expungement and Why Is It Important for Hoosiers?

Expungement is the legal process of sealing or erasing eligible criminal records, effectively removing them from public view. This means that under the Indiana Second Chance Law, employers, landlords, and the general public won’t be able to access these records when conducting background checks.

Benefits of Criminal Record Expungement

There are several advantages to pursuing expungement, including:

Employment opportunities: With a clean record, it becomes easier to pass background checks and secure well-paying jobs.
Housing accessibility: A sealed record makes you a more competitive applicant when looking for stable housing.
Restored rights: Expungement can restore certain rights, such as eligibility for professional licenses or the ability to serve on a jury.

Taking the steps to expunge your criminal record is an investment in your future—but how much can you expect to pay?

What Factors Affect the Cost of Expungement in Indiana?

The cost of expunging your record depends on several factors. Here’s an overview of what influences the total expense.

Type and Volume of Records to Expunge

Misdemeanor vs. felony: Felony expungements may involve more complex legal procedures, which can affect attorney fees and filing costs.
Multiple records: If you’re expunging multiple cases, it could increase overall expenses.

Court Jurisdiction

Each Indiana county may have its own filing fees or administrative processes, which can influence cost variations.

Legal Representation

While hiring an attorney is not required, having a knowledgeable expungement lawyer can significantly improve your chances of success. Their fees are an important part of the overall cost.

Additional Documentation or Resources

Gathering certified documents from the court or completing background checks may incur additional expenses.

Now that we’ve covered the variables, here’s a closer look at the specific costs.

A Detailed Breakdown of Expungement Costs in Indiana

Expungement Filing Fees

Filing fees typically range between $100 to $200 per petition. These are non-refundable and are required to officially submit your expungement application in court. Felony cases may require higher fees compared to misdemeanors.

Attorney Fees

Hiring an attorney to guide you through the process can cost anywhere between $850 to $2,500, depending on the complexity of your case. Factors that influence attorney fees include the number of records to be addressed, the severity of charges, and the attorney’s level of expertise.

At our Indianapolis expungement law firm, we offer competitive criminal record expungement services starting at just $850 in Indianapolis, making high-quality legal services more accessible for Indiana residents.

Background Checks and Certified Documents

You may need to pay for background checks or certification of court records. These costs generally range from $50 to $100, depending on the nature and extent of the documentation required.

Administrative Costs

These include copying fees, mailing expenses, or other court-mandated fees for processing your expungement application. Though minor, these costs typically add up to $20 to $50.

When you add everything together, the total cost for expungement in Indiana often ranges between $1,000 and $3,000, depending on the complexity of your case and your choice of legal services.

For many, this investment is worth achieving a clean slate under the Indiana Second Chance Law.

How to Reduce Expungement Costs

If you’re concerned about the expenses, here are some strategies to help manage costs while still pursuing successful expungement journey:

Choose an Affordable Attorney

Look for legal services that specialize in criminal record sealing and offer transparent, fixed-fee pricing. We are proud to offer expungement services starting at $850, providing expert representation without breaking the bank.

Explore Free or Low-Cost Legal Aid

Nonprofit organizations and pro bono legal services may assist with certain expungement cases, especially for individuals with financial hardships. Resources such as Indiana Legal Services can help.

Prepare Your Own Paperwork

Although legal representation is beneficial, you can minimize attorney involvement by gathering necessary paperwork yourself or opting for DIY filing (though this approach may have serious risks).

Apply for Fee Waivers

Indiana courts may allow petitioners to request a fee waiver based on financial need. Be sure to check with your local court if this option is available.

By taking these steps, you may be able to successfully reduce expenses while navigating the expungement process.

Key Takeaways

Expungement offers a powerful opportunity to move forward with a clean record and a brighter future. By understanding the costs involved, exploring cost-saving strategies, and seeking the right legal support, you can take control of your situation and pursue the fresh start you deserve. Whether you’re looking to improve job prospects, secure stable housing, or restore your rights, investing in expungement is a step toward reclaiming your life.

If you’re ready to start this life-changing process, our experienced team is here to help. Contact our licensed criminal defense lawyers for low-cost criminal record expungement filing assistance in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our fees start as low as $850, and initial consultations are free!