Starting Fresh: 4 Steps to Clean Up Your Criminal History as a Hoosier

Posted on March 25, 2024 by admin

For many people, the past isn’t just a memory—it’s a record. A criminal history can have a lasting impact on an individual’s life, affecting everything from job prospects to housing opportunities. Fortunately, the state of Indiana offers a pathway to a fresh start through the expungement and record sealing process. If you’re a Hoosier looking to turn the page on your past, this comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the necessary steps to clear your criminal record and gain a new lease on life.

Call 317-636-7514 for Indiana Expungement Assistance - Starting at $850! — Call 317-636-7514 for Indiana Expungement Assistance – Starting at $850!

Indiana’s Second Chance Law at a Glance

In Indiana, the fairly-new criminal record expungement and record sealing laws, also known as Indiana’s Second Chance Laws, allows for limited access to certain criminal records by the public. Record sealing, on the other hand, makes it illegal to disclose sealed records to anyone, including most potential employers or landlords. For many, this legal remedy represents the potential for redemption, a second chance to redefine their narrative.

Removing or sealing past convictions can significantly improve your life. It can make it easier to find employment, secure housing, and participate fully in civic life. Studies have shown that expungement is linked to reduced recidivism rates, suggesting that people with clean records are less likely to re-offend.

How to Start Fresh With Criminal Record Expungement

Step 1: Hiring a Lawyer

While it is possible to file for expungement without legal representation, enlisting the help of a skilled criminal defense lawyer is highly recommended. An expungement attorney experienced in Indiana’s Second Chance Law will not only handle the entire process for you, but also provide invaluable support and advice.

Navigating Legal Loopholes

The expertise of a knowledgeable attorney can be essential in navigating the legal system. They can help ensure that you understand your rights, provide personalized advice based on your unique situation, and increase the likelihood of a successful expungement.

Choosing a Lawyer

When selecting a lawyer, look for one with a track record of successful expungement cases. Schedule consultations with several attorneys to discuss your case and determine who can offer the best representation. Remember to ask about their fees and payment plans, as cost can vary significantly.

The following steps are steps that your criminal record expungement lawyer will handle for you on your behalf. If you are planning to manage the petitioning process yourself, these next steps are the steps you will need to take.

Step 2: Assessing Eligibility

Not all criminal records are eligible for expungement. The Indiana legal system has specific criteria that individuals must meet to qualify for record clearing. Understanding these requirements is the critical second step to the expungement process.

Who Qualifies for Expungement?

In Indiana, individuals may be eligible for expungement if:

They have completed their sentence, including any probation or parole
A certain number of years have passed since the conviction, depending on the offense
They have no pending charges

Navigating the Criteria

The details of your case, such as the nature of the offense and your criminal history, will determine your eligibility. Work with your attorney to assess whether you meet the state’s criteria for expungement.

Step 3: Gathering Necessary Documentation

The road to expungement is paved with paperwork. You will need to gather a range of documents to support your expungement petition, such as court records, sentencing documents, and a criminal background check.

Document-Savvy Preparation

The key to a successful expungement petition is thorough and organized documentation. Be proactive in getting the paperwork you need, and be prepared to provide evidence of your rehabilitation since your conviction.

What You Need to Collect:

Certified copies of all court cases you wish to expunge
Records of any probation, parole, or other supervision
A report from the Indiana State Police that provides a criminal history background check

Accurately Organizing Records

Accurately organize and present these records to your attorney, who can help ensure that you have everything you need to present a compelling expungement case.

Step 4: Filing the Petition

Once you’ve determined your eligibility and collected the necessary documentation, it is time to officially file your expungement petition. This is a formal legal process that must be completed with care and attention to detail.

The Petitioning Process

Work with your attorney to draft and file the petition. They can ensure that your petition meets all legal requirements and that it is filed in a timely manner. Your expungement petition should be filed with the court where you were convicted. It will include a description of your case, the charges you are seeking to expunge, and the reasons why you believe you should be granted an expungement.

What to Expect

The court will review your petition, and you may be required to attend a hearing. At the hearing, you will have the opportunity to present your case for expungement. The court’s decision will be based on various factors, including the nature of the offense, your criminal history, and your post-conviction conduct.

Following Up and Moving Forward

Obtaining an expungement doesn’t mark the end of your story—it’s a new beginning. Now that your record is clear, it’s time to take full advantage of the opportunities available to you.

Post-Expungement Life

With a clean criminal record, you are free to pursue employment, education, and other aspects of your life without the burden of past convictions. Take advantage of community resources, support networks, and continuing legal counsel to help you thrive post-expungement.

Advocating for Awareness

Sharing your expungement story can be a powerful way to advocate for others seeking a fresh start. By speaking out about the process and its impact on your life, you can help raise awareness and encourage others to pursue expungement.

Conclusion

For those who have struggled with the weight of a criminal past, the expungement and record sealing processes present a beacon of hope, a chance to rewrite life’s next chapters in a positive light. By following the four steps outlined in this guide—hiring a lawyer, assessing eligibility, gathering documentation, and filing your petition—you can set the wheels in motion for a legal rebirth. Remember, the process may be extensive, but the rewards of a clear record are immeasurable.

Why Go Through With It?

Cleaning up your criminal history is both a personal and legal victory. It signifies an acceptance of responsibility for past actions and a commitment to a future free from the shadows of your past. If you are a Hoosier looking to reclaim your life from the tarnish of a criminal record, remember that the system is designed to help you. Empower yourself with knowledge, seek the assistance of legal experts, and take the proactive steps necessary to secure your right to a fresh start. After all, every individual is worth the opportunity to overcome and thrive, and Indiana’s Second Chance laws are the key to unlocking that potential.

You don’t have to be afraid of your future employer or loan officer running a background check on you anymore. Contact our licensed criminal defense lawyers for affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our fees start as low as $850, and initial consultations are free!

Revamp Your Job Hunt: Strategic Tips for Securing a Better Position

Posted on August 25, 2023 by admin

In today’s competitive job market, securing a better position necessitates more than just a polished resume and a handful of experiences. A successful job hunt involves strategic planning, mastering the art of interviews, and acquiring the right tactics to negotiate a higher paying job. As daunting as it may seem, these skills can be honed with the right approach.

This blog post targets valuable insights and practical strategies that will help you elevate your job search and land the role you’ve always aspired for. Let’s delve into the nitty-gritty of turning your job hunt into a strategic, result-oriented mission.

Call 317-636-7514 to Clean Up Your Criminal Record in Indiana

How to Get a Better Job in Today’s Market

Research, Analyze, and Strategize

Before beginning your job search, it is important to research the field or industry in which you would like to work. Identify the top companies and explore their websites for potential openings. It is essential that you are familiar with the organization’s mission statement, vision, and organizational culture. Additionally, look into the qualifications and experience that the role requires. This will help you tailor your application to fit the job requirements and set yourself apart from other applicants.

Furthermore, analyze current trends in the job market and determine if there are any areas with a higher demand for employees. You may even consider Networking with peers who have already achieved success in their respective fields as they can offer valuable advice on how to reach your goals. Lastly, create a job search plan and strategize the best tactics for success. This will keep you organized and motivated in pursuing your desired role.

Master the Art of Interviews

Interviews are integral in selecting the right candidate for the job. Therefore, it is important to prepare yourself with confidence and practice your answers. Research the company beforehand and read up on the job description to better understand what they’re looking for in a potential employee. It also pays off to prepare questions that are relevant to the role.

Asking informed questions will demonstrate your knowledge of the field as well as your genuine interest in securing the position. Additionally, practice active listening and remain engaged throughout the conversation. This will show employers that you are paying attention to their responses and genuinely interested in understanding more about the role. Keep in mind that there are questions employers are not allowed to ask.

Negotiate a Higher Paying Job

Negotiation can be intimidating, but there are strategies to make it less daunting and more rewarding. Before negotiating, research salary ranges for your desired job title so you know what kind of wage to expect. Additionally, prepare a list of your qualifications and experiences that make you stand out amongst other applicants. It is also important to be courteous and professional throughout the process and avoid making threats or ultimatums. Lastly, stay positive and don’t be afraid to ask for what you feel you deserve.

Clean Up Your Criminal Record

A criminal record can have a negative impact on your job search if potential employers are running background checks – which they likely are. It may affect your chances of being hired or potentially limit your opportunities. To protect yourself and improve your employability, it is important to clean up your criminal record. This can be done by having certain arrests and convictions expunged from one’s criminal history, allowing you to start fresh with a clean slate. To learn more about how to clear your criminal record, talk to a criminal defense attorney who specializes in criminal record expungement and record sealing services. You will need their guidance to successfully petition for a sealed criminal record.

Final Thoughts

Landing a better job is possible with the right approach and strategies. Take initiative and create an action plan for success! With proper research, preparation, and practice you can confidently navigate the competitive job market and secure a higher paying job. These strategies will certainly help streamline your job hunt and increase the likelihood of landing the position you’ve always wanted.

Are you ready to learn more about cleaning up your criminal history in Indiana? Contact our licensed criminal lawyers for affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our fees start as low as $850, and initial consultations are free!

Passing a Criminal Background Check: Essential Steps to Follow

Posted on August 8, 2023 by admin

In today’s world, a criminal background check is a common procedure in various walks of life, be it job applications, housing rentals, or volunteering opportunities. However, the presence of a criminal record can often prove to be a significant hurdle in these processes. In such a scenario, understanding how to successfully pass a criminal background check becomes a crucial piece of knowledge.

This blog post aims to guide you through the essential steps to follow, including how to conduct background scans and the process for criminal record expungement, so you can navigate these checks with confidence and ease.

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Start By Conducting a Background Scan…on Yourself

The first step is to conduct a background scan. This allows you to find out exactly what information appears in your criminal record, as well as identify any errors or inaccuracies that may be present. You can do this by using online resources such as the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), which stores up-to-date information on criminal histories.

It is important to check for common errors such as mismatched names, incorrect dates of birth, or even cases where the wrong person has been arrested in error. It is also worth noting that these databases only include information from states, so if you have a criminal record in another country, it will not be included in the background scan.

Understanding the Results of Your Background Scan

Once you have completed your background scan, it is important to understand the results. This includes researching any documented police encounters, arrests, criminal charges, and/or convictions that appear on your personal criminal history report, then going on to determine if they are eligible for criminal record expungement.

In many states, certain types of convictions may be subject to expungement after a certain period of time or after meeting certain criteria. It is essential to understand the laws of your state in order to determine if your criminal charges and police encounters are eligible for expungement.

You should also be aware that some employers may only consider criminal records that have been sealed, expunged, or otherwise restricted from public view. Therefore, understanding the difference between record sealing and expunging is important in order to ensure that your criminal record does not negatively impact your chances of success.

The Process for Criminal Record Expungement

For those who are eligible, the process for criminal record expungement can be long and complex. First, you will need to contact the court which handled your case and request a copy of your conviction documents. You will then need to complete a petition for expungement, which must be signed by the prosecutor and judge.

Once this has been completed, you may also have to appear in court to answer questions about your conviction. If you are successful, the court will issue an order of expungement, sealing your criminal records from public view. It is important to note that this process can take several months to complete.

In Summary

By following these essential steps, you will be able to ensure that your criminal record does not prevent you from achieving success in your life. Understanding how to conduct background scans and the process for criminal record expungement is crucial knowledge for anyone who has been convicted of a crime. With the right information and guidance, you can navigate criminal background checks with confidence and ease.

Ready to begin your journey towards uncovering if you are eligible for criminal expungement and where to start? Start right here! Contact our esteemed criminal defense lawyers for affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

Tips for Overcoming a Bad Background Check Result

Posted on May 31, 2023 by admin

When applying for a job, one of the most important steps is to pass the background check. Unfortunately, not all applicants are lucky enough to have a clean record. A criminal record or other negative information in your background can be difficult to overcome and may prevent you from getting hired. But there are steps that you can take to improve your chances of success even with bad background check results. Below are some tips on how to do just that!

How to Overcome a Negative Background Check Result

Understand Your Background Check Report

Before you can begin to try and address any potential issues on your background check, it is important to understand what is in the report. Request a copy of the report from the company that conducted it and review it carefully for accuracy. If there are any errors or outdated information, be sure to dispute these with the reporting agency so that they can correct them before submitting them to employers.

Address Any Criminal Records

Criminal records often stand out on background checks and can significantly reduce your chances of employment if not addressed properly. If you have a criminal record, work with an attorney or other professional to develop a plan for addressing this issue when dealing with future job applications. You may also benefit from attending job-readiness classes or other rehabilitation programs.

Be Honest and Transparent

Honesty is always the best policy when it comes to background checks and job applications. If you are asked about any criminal records or negative information on your background check, be honest about what happened and explain the steps that you have taken to address the issue. Employers may be more willing to hire someone who has acknowledged their past mistakes than someone who lies or tries to hide them.

Show You Are Qualified

Bad results on a background check do not mean that you cannot still get hired for a job, but you will need to prove that you possess all of the necessary skills and qualifications for the position. Focus on highlighting your strengths and qualifications and be prepared to explain why your background check results should not be a reflection on your ability to do the job.

Network and Look for Opportunities

Networking with potential employers can also help you increase your chances of success despite bad results on a background check. Seek out opportunities to attend career fairs or meet with hiring managers to discuss the positions that you are interested in. This may give you an opportunity to explain any negative information from your background check in person rather than just relying on a piece of paper.

Hire a Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer

You may be eligible for criminal record expungement and a criminal defense lawyer can help you find out of you are. Criminal record expungement is a process by which you can have your criminal records erased or sealed from public access. This legal action effectively wipes your criminal record clean, and you can legally state that you have not been convicted of a crime. This means it will not show up on your background check. Expungement is typically reserved for minor offenses committed over a certain period of time. This legal action can potentially open doors after being hindered by the stigma of a past criminal record. Expungement can have a life-changing impact, providing the opportunity for you to fully move forward with your life. Just be sure to hire a criminal record expungement lawyer for help with the petition process. Just one simple mistake can get your application rejected forever.

In Summary

These tips can help you overcome negative results on a background check but remember that it is important to stay positive throughout the process. With hard work, honesty, and resilience, it is possible to find success even when you have a bad background check result.

Are you ready to learn if you qualify for criminal record expungement in Indiana? Contact us at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced expungement lawyer in Indianapolis. Our Indiana criminal expungement services start as low as $850!

How to Get a Better Job as a Past Offender in Indiana

Posted on February 12, 2021 by admin

For most things in the life, the past is the past, and you should move on from it. After all, some say holding onto shame or grudges is like poison for your mind. But when it comes to criminal records, this ideology is not as simple. Criminal history is a permanent record that follows you all throughout your life. Even juvenile records are permanent. As a past offender in Indiana, you likely already know that your career opportunities are limited, and your criminal history has held you back from achieving your professional goals or obtaining a higher income. Well, the good news is that there might be a way for you to clean up your criminal history, and finally get a better job for your future and your family. We are talking about criminal record expungement, also known as Indiana’s 2^nd Chance law.

Continue below to learn about Indiana’s Second Chance Law, and how it can help you improve your quality of life, professionally and beyond.

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Indiana’s Second Chance Law

Here in Indiana, July 11^th, 2014 was an important day for all Hoosiers who had criminal arrests and convictions on their permanent records. That is because Indiana legislature passed the Second Chance Law, which allows those who qualify to seal or remove criminal arrests and convictions from their criminal records. Upon approval, a person’s conviction or arrest is no longer accessible by the general public ever again, including employers.

How a Cleaner Record Can Get You a Better Job

Did you know that virtually 96^%of all Indiana employers perform at least one type of background check? In fact, most employers use multiple types of background checks to educate themselves about their potential hire, including credit history scans, education verification, past employment verification, reference checks, social security trace, drug tests, sex offender registry checks, driving record scans, and nowadays, social media and internet checks.

But of all the possible background checks and scans employers can choose from to perform on potential hires, a criminal history check is always one of them. If you are equally qualified with another possible hire, but your criminal record shows an arrest or conviction in your past and the other hire has a clean record, you will likely be passed up on the job. In other cases, some corporate business models will not allow an employer to hire someone with a criminal record, even if they wanted to.

If your criminal record in Indiana were wiped clean of your past convictions and/or arrests, you could experience a whole other set of doors opening up for you in terms of a new career or better-paying job position. You can open yourself up to more promotions, professional licenses, and much more. A cleaner record will most certainly place you in front of a long list of applicants for any job you interview for.

Where to Get Help With Your Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Petition

You cannot just download an application and request that your criminal record is sealed or expunged. The criminal record expungement petitioning process is very serious and complex, so it requires the assistance of a well-versed Indiana criminal defense lawyer. Just one filling error, such as a missed spelled word, can get your petition denied. And the rule is, you can only apply once in your lifetime. So, you do not want to mess up your application, nor miss an important filing deadline. It is not free to expunge criminal records in Indiana, so be prepared to pay for filing and court fees, as well as lawyer fees.

Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Record Expungement as Low as $850

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. Contact us to get started, and do so soon, before this unpopular law is repealed!

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

Basic Background Checks vs Comprehensive Background Checks

Posted on December 27, 2019 by admin

Background checks are not what you would call a dime a dozen. There are countless types of background checks and scans to choose from, all of which offering different kinds of information and to varying extents. Some background checks are for traffic-related histories, while others for rental histories, vehicular reports, and more. The most common type of background check is the type that others will perform to learn the criminal history of a particular person.

However, criminal history scans are also widely diversified. There are several sources of background check scans to choose from, some for a fee and some for free. The type chosen will depend on a few factors, such as the budget for background checking, the available sources, and the extent of information the user is looking for. Regardless of the type of background check used on someone, all types can be classified as either basic or comprehensive. The difference between the two umbrella categories will help a user decide which one they need to perform.

Continue reading to learn the differences between a basic background scan and a comprehensive background scan.

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal History and Background Checks

Keep in mind that background checks are not solely focused on criminal records. Those running background checks might be checking up on universal information about a person, such as professional licensing, driving records, credit history, rental history, and much more. See our blog, “How Many Types of Background Checks Are There?” to learn some of the most common types of background scans.

As for criminal history scans, they typically source information from official authorities, such as national criminal databases, county courts, federal and state criminal records, sex offender registries, and even domestic and global terrorist watch lists. The extent of information sourced depends on whether a use runs a basic check or a comprehensive one.

In most cases, basic background checks are free, or for a low cost. Comprehensive scans are usually never free; in fact, they tend to cost a decent amount of money. On average, a full background scan will cost between $25 and $200, depending on the provider. Below you can view some of the most common data found in each type of background check.

Basic Background Checks:

📑 Criminal History Check
📑 Prior Employment Verification
📑 Reference Check
📑 Sexual Offender Registry Check
📑 Social Security Number Trace
📑 Professional License & Certificate Confirmation

Comprehensive Background Checks:

📑 Criminal History Check
📑 Prior Employment Verification
📑 Education Verification
📑 Reference Check
📑 Drug Screening
📑 Sexual Offender Registry Check
📑 Credit Background Check
📑 Social Media & Internet Check
📑 Driving Record
📑 Professional License & Certificate Confirmation
📑 Social Security Number Trace
📑 Listed Domestic or Global Terrorist
📑 And More

Indiana’s Second Chance Law at a Glance

How to Start Fresh With Criminal Record Expungement

Step 1: Hiring a Lawyer

Navigating Legal Loopholes

Choosing a Lawyer

Step 2: Assessing Eligibility

Who Qualifies for Expungement?

Navigating the Criteria

Step 3: Gathering Necessary Documentation

Document-Savvy Preparation

What You Need to Collect:

Accurately Organizing Records

Step 4: Filing the Petition

The Petitioning Process

What to Expect

Following Up and Moving Forward

Post-Expungement Life

Advocating for Awareness

Conclusion

How to Get a Better Job in Today’s Market

Research, Analyze, and Strategize

Master the Art of Interviews

Negotiate a Higher Paying Job

Clean Up Your Criminal Record

Final Thoughts

Start By Conducting a Background Scan…on Yourself

Understanding the Results of Your Background Scan

The Process for Criminal Record Expungement

In Summary

How to Overcome a Negative Background Check Result

Understand Your Background Check Report

Address Any Criminal Records

Be Honest and Transparent

Show You Are Qualified

Network and Look for Opportunities

Hire a Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer

In Summary

Indiana’s Second Chance Law

How a Cleaner Record Can Get You a Better Job

Where to Get Help With Your Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Petition

Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Record Expungement as Low as $850

Criminal History and Background Checks

Basic Background Checks:

Comprehensive Background Checks:

How to Clean Up Your Criminal Record