Navigating Indiana’s Expungement Maze: Limitations and Opportunities

Posted on May 21, 2024 by admin

Reintegrating into society after a conviction can be challenging. A criminal record often acts as a barrier, affecting various aspects of your life. This is where criminal record expungement comes in. Essentially, it means sealing or erasing past convictions from public records, giving ex-offenders a second chance. For Indiana residents, understanding the expungement law and its limitations is crucial for those seeking a fresh start.

Call 317-636-7514 for Professional Expungement Services in Indianapolis Indiana

Overview of the Indiana’s Expungement Laws

Indiana’s expungement law, also known as the Indiana Second Chance Law, provides a legal pathway to seal or expunge eligible criminal records. However, not all convictions are eligible, and specific criteria must be met:

Eligibility criteria: Different categories of offenses have distinct eligibility requirements. For example, non-conviction records can be expunged one year after the arrest, while misdemeanors and Class D felonies can be expunged five years after the conviction.

Types of Offenses: Felonies that resulted in serious bodily injury or sexual offenses are not eligible for expungement.

Waiting Periods: Depending on the category of offense, the waiting period can range from one year to ten years or more.

Limitations and Restrictions to Criminal Record Expungement

While the expungement law offers a lifeline, it comes with limitations. This legal measure allows individuals to clear certain criminal records, providing them with opportunities to rebuild their lives. However, not all offenses are eligible for expungement, and the process can be complex and time-consuming. It’s important to understand the specific criteria and legal requirements involved to take full advantage of this opportunity.

Waiting Periods: Each category of offense has a mandatory waiting period before you can file for expungement. These can range from one year to a decade, depending on the severity of the crime.
Non-Eligible Offenses: Certain offenses, including crimes involving serious bodily injury or sexual offenses, cannot be expunged.
One-Time Opportunity: In Indiana, you can only file for expungement once in your lifetime, so it’s crucial to get it right the first time.

The Impact of a Criminal Record

A criminal record can severely impact various aspects of life, from obtaining employment to securing housing, and even accessing educational opportunities. This makes the expungement process invaluable, as it provides individuals with a chance to clear their records and rebuild their lives without the burden of past mistakes. Despite its limitations, expungement can significantly improve your quality of life by removing these barriers.

Employment: Many employers conduct criminal background checks, which can be a significant hurdle if your record is not expunged.
Housing: Landlords often run background checks, and a criminal record or criminal eviction can make it challenging to secure housing.
Education: School admissions officers may consider criminal history, affecting your chances of getting into certain programs.
Personal Life: From dating to social interactions, a criminal record can affect personal relationships and your overall sense of self-worth.

Guidance for Expungement Seekers

If you’re considering expungement, here are some steps to guide you:

Determine Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for your specific offense category. Check the waiting periods and ensure you meet the requirements.
Filing for Expungement: The process involves submitting a petition to the court. You may need to provide documents such as your criminal history, proof of rehabilitation, and other supporting materials.
Legal Counsel: Given the complexity and one-time nature of the expungement process, seeking legal advice from an experienced expungement lawyer is highly recommended. They can help ensure your petition is well-prepared and increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

Navigating the maze of Indiana’s expungement law can be daunting, but it’s a crucial step towards a better future. The process involves multiple steps, including filing petitions and attending court hearings, which can be overwhelming without proper guidance. If you’re considering expungement, don’t go it alone.

Seek professional advice from a qualified criminal defense lawyer who specializes in expungement cases to maximize your chances of success. They can help you understand the eligibility criteria, gather necessary documentation, and represent you in court, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Taking the next step to clearing your criminal record can open doors to new job opportunities, housing options, and a fresh start. Are you ready for all that? 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.

Indiana’s Criteria for Criminal Record Expungement

Posted on May 14, 2024 by admin

Navigating life with a criminal record can feel like an uphill battle. It complicates job searches, housing applications, and even personal relationships. Fortunately, Indiana offers a way to mitigate these issues through the expungement process. Expungement allows individuals to seal or eliminate certain criminal records, offering a fresh start and a chance to move forward without the shadow of past mistakes.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into Indiana’s expungement laws, eligibility criteria, and the steps necessary to clear your criminal record. Whether you’re an Indiana resident, a job seeker, or someone with a criminal past looking to rebuild your life, this post will provide you with valuable insights and actionable steps.

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Understanding Indiana’s Expungement Laws

Indiana has specific criteria that determine whether an individual is eligible for criminal record expungement.

Eligibility Criteria

Type of Offense: Some offenses are eligible for expungement, while others are not. Generally, non-violent misdemeanors and certain low-level felonies can be expunged. Serious felonies, violent crimes, and sex offenses are typically excluded.
Completion of Sentence: To qualify for expungement, you must have completed your sentence, including probation, parole, and any court-ordered programs.
Waiting Periods: Indiana law imposes different waiting periods based on the severity of the offense. For example, misdemeanors may have a waiting period of five years, while certain felonies may require up to ten years before you can petition for expungement.
No Pending Charges: You must not have any pending criminal charges to be eligible for expungement.

Types of Offenses

Expungable Offenses: Non-violent misdemeanors, certain Class D (Level 6) felonies, and juvenile offenses.
Non-Expungable Offenses: Serious felonies, violent crimes, sex offenses, and crimes involving public officials in their official capacity.

Waiting Periods

Misdemeanors: 5 years from the date of conviction.
Class D (Level 6) Felonies: 8 years from the date of conviction.
Higher-Level Felonies: 10 years from the date of conviction or 5 years from the completion of your sentence, whichever is later.

Steps to Expunge a Criminal Record in Indiana

Gather Necessary Forms: Start by obtaining the required forms for expungement from the Indiana Judicial Branch website or your local court.
Complete the Forms – Fill out the forms accurately. You’ll need to include details about your convictions, sentences, and any other relevant information.
Submit the Petition – File the completed petition with the court where your conviction occurred.

Required Documentation

Certified Court Records: Copies of your criminal records and court documents related to your case.
Proof of Sentence Completion: Documentation showing you’ve completed all terms of your sentence.
Personal Statement: A statement explaining why you believe your record should be expunged.

Importance of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Hiring a criminal defense lawyer who specializes in expungement can significantly improve your chances of a successful petition. A lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensure all paperwork is correctly filed, and represent you in any required court hearings.

Benefits of Criminal Record Expungement

Improved Job Prospects: Employers often conduct background checks, and a clean record can open doors to better job opportunities.
Housing Opportunities: Landlords are more likely to approve rental applications when a criminal record is expunged.
School Admission: Educational institutions may consider expunged records when evaluating applicants.
Dating Success: Personal relationships can be affected by a criminal record; expungement helps improve trust and acceptance in the dating world.
Loan Eligibility: Financial institutions are more likely to approve loans for individuals without a criminal history.

Challenges and Considerations

Financial Cost: The expungement process can be costly, including filing fees and attorney fees.
Time-Consuming: Collecting documentation, filing petitions, and waiting for court decisions can take several months.

Final Takeaway

Criminal record expungement in Indiana provides a valuable opportunity for individuals to break free from the constraints of their past. Understanding the eligibility criteria, navigating the legal process, and seeking professional help can make a significant difference in achieving a successful expungement.

If you or someone you know could benefit from expungement, now is the time to take action. Consult with a criminal defense lawyer, gather your documentation, and initiate the process to reclaim your future.

Don’t let your past define your future. Take the first step towards a fresh start today. Contact our respected lawyers for affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

A New Road Ahead: Tips for Cleaning Up Your Criminal Record

Posted on April 26, 2024 by admin

Having a criminal record can cast a long shadow over your life. It can limit your employment opportunities, housing options, educational endeavors, and even your ability to secure a loan. However, in Indiana, there’s a beacon of hope for individuals looking to wipe their slate clean—the expungement and record sealing process. If you’re an Indiana resident with a criminal history, this guide is your roadmap to understanding and navigating the path to a fresh start.

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The Power of Expungement and Sealing in Indiana

Many Hoosiers are unaware of the distinction and the immense power of expungement and sealing, but they can be life-changing mechanisms for those who qualify. Expungement is the statutory process that results in the extraction and isolation of all records on file within any court, law enforcement agency, detention center, correctional facility (jail or prison), or criminal justice agency concerning a person’s arrest, criminal charge, or conviction.

Sealing of criminal records means the removal of arrest and conviction records from public access, but the records are not fully destroyed and still exist in a restricted capacity. Both processes effectively hide your criminal history from non-governmental inquiries.

Who Is Eligible for Expungement in Indiana?

Intent on granting Hoosiers with a second chance, the state of Indiana has specific guidelines for determining who is eligible for expungement. Offenses that qualify under Indiana’s expungement law are generally non-violent and do not involve sexual or major drug offenses. In some cases, individuals may qualify if they can demonstrate that the purpose for which they seek expungement outweighs the public’s right to access the record.

To be eligible for expungement in Indiana, you must have completed all the terms of your sentence and any post-sentence requirements, be free from any new criminal convictions, and abide by waiting periods that vary depending on the nature of the crime. In the case of minor felonies, you must wait eight years from the date of the most recent conviction or release from incarceration, while for misdemeanors, this waiting period is reduced to five years.

The Application Process for Expungement in Indiana

The process for expungement in Indiana is not a simple one. It involves navigating various legal complexities and requires a comprehensive approach. The first step is to obtain your criminal history report, a crucial document that reveals the charges and convictions held against you. This will be a foundational piece of evidence used in court to argue for the expungement of your record.

Next, the expungement petition must be filed in the appropriate court, which is typically the court where the conviction occurred. The petition should include all relevant information, such as your biographical information, a list of criminal cases related to your request for expungement, and a copy of your criminal history report. It’s important to note that incomplete or improperly filed petitions can lead to delays or denials, making the expertise of a criminal defense lawyer extremely beneficial.

Once your petition is filed, it may be scheduled for a hearing. Depending on the court’s docket, this can take several months. The court will either grant or deny your petition following the hearing. It is at this point that you will be able to argue for the strength of your case to have your record expunged. If the petition is granted, the orders for expungement will need to be served on every agency listed in the petition and prove service to the court.

Post-Expungement Benefits in Indiana

After successfully expunging your criminal record in Indiana, you can proudly move forward with an enhanced quality of life. This process offers a second chance at a future that is unencumbered by the trappings of the past. You can legally state on job applications and rental agreements that you have not been arrested or convicted of the expunged crime, and employers are not allowed to ask about those expunged records.

The rights restored through expungement are comprehensive. They include the right to not have the expunged crimes considered personal financial obligations or sentencing enhancements, the right to engage in a non-restricted occupation licensure or certification, and certain property rights and interests will be reinstated.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Pursuing Expungement

Understanding the nuances and intricacies of the legal system is beyond the reach of the average individual. That’s why one of the most common mistakes is attempting to file an expungement petition without legal representation. A single misstep, such as missing a required filing or using incorrect legal language, can lead to severe consequences, prolonging the timeline of your expungement or even leading to a denial of your petition.

Another mistake is not being thorough in disclosing criminal history. Complete transparency is vital. Any omissions or discrepancies can erode the trust of the judiciary and, potentially, affect the outcome of your petition.

Conclusion

For Indiana residents carrying the burden of a criminal past, the expungement and sealing process is a beacon of hope. It represents an opportunity to redefine your future, regain your lost rights, and take control of your narrative. By understanding the eligibility criteria, meticulously navigating the application process, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

The road to expungement is not an easy one, and it’s not a path that you should walk alone. By enlisting the support of legal professionals well-versed in expungement cases, you’re not just investing in your future, but you’re also investing in the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a dedicated partner in securing your fresh start.

Take the first step towards a brighter future by learning more about expungement in Indiana and seizing the opportunity to clear your name. 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!

Clearing Your Name: Understanding Indiana’s Expungement Laws

Posted on April 9, 2024 by admin

In the quest for a fresh start, Indiana’s expungement laws provide a beacon of hope for those seeking to clear their criminal records. Known formally as the Second Chance Law, it’s designed to offer individuals the opportunity to seal past convictions and arrests from public view, potentially opening doors to employment, housing, and education that were previously closed.

This introduction to Indiana’s criminal record expungement laws will guide you through the eligibility requirements, the process, and the profound impact expungement can have on a person’s life, emphasizing that everyone deserves a second chance to redefine their future.

Call 317-636-7514 for Indiana Expungement Legal Help

Eligibility for Expungement in Indiana

In order to be eligible for expungement in Indiana, individuals must meet certain criteria. These include:

Completion of sentence and payment of all fines and fees associated with the conviction or arrest.
No pending criminal charges or open cases.
A waiting period of 5 years after completing the sentence for misdemeanor convictions, 8 years for most felony convictions, and 10 years for certain serious felonies.
No more than 2 felony convictions on record, with only one being a Class B felony.
Not having any previous expungements granted within the last 5 years.

It’s important to note that certain offenses are not eligible for expungement, such as sex crimes involving children, violent crimes, and certain drug offenses.

The Expungement Process in Indiana

The expungement process in Indiana involves several steps, including filing a petition with the court and attending a hearing. It’s highly recommended to seek the guidance of an experienced attorney who can help navigate through the legal complexities and ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted correctly.

Filing a Petition

The first step in the expungement process is filing a petition with the court where the conviction or arrest occurred. The petition must include all relevant information, including the individual’s personal and criminal history, as well as any supporting documentation.

Attending a Hearing

After the petition is filed, a hearing will be scheduled where the judge will review the case and make a decision on whether or not to grant the expungement. It’s important for individuals to attend this hearing and present their case in a compelling manner.

The Impact of Expungement

Expungement can have a profound impact on an individual’s life, offering them a second chance to build a better future. With a clean criminal record, individuals may be eligible for better job opportunities, access to housing and education, and the ability to obtain professional licenses. It also allows individuals to move forward without the stigma of a criminal record, giving them a chance to redefine themselves.

Conclusion

Indiana’s expungement laws offer a glimmer of hope for those seeking to clear their criminal records and start anew. By understanding the eligibility requirements, the expungement process, and the positive impact it can have on one’s life, individuals can take important steps towards a brighter future. Remember, everyone deserves a second chance to make a positive change in their lives.

So, if you or someone you know is eligible for expungement in Indiana, don’t hesitate to explore this option and pave the way for a better tomorrow. Don’t give up hope and take the first step towards clearing your name and moving forward towards a brighter future. Your second chance may be just around the corner.

For more information on Indiana’s expungement laws and resources to help you through the process, get in touch today. Contact our Indianapolis criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition here in Indiana. Our expungement fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

A Comprehensive Guide to How Criminal Records Work

Posted on April 14, 2023 by admin

Criminal records are an important part of the criminal justice system. They provide a record of someone’s past legal history and can be used to determine future sentencing decisions. But what exactly is a criminal record? How do they work? And how can they be expunged or sealed?

In this blog post, we will take you through all you need to know about criminal records—from understanding your rights as an individual with such a record, to learning more about expungement and record sealing processes. By the end of this guide, you should have a better understanding of how this important aspect of the law works. Let’s get started!

What You Need to Know About Criminal Records

What are Criminal Records?

Criminal records are simply a list of all the convictions and sentences that an individual has received throughout their lifetime. They are used to determine if someone is permitted to receive certain benefits, like housing or employment. Criminal records also play a major role in determining future sentencing decisions—someone with a criminal record may be seen as a more serious offender than someone without one. So, it’s important for individuals to understand what’s included in their criminal record and how it can affect their future opportunities.

Can a Criminal Record Be Expunged or Sealed?

In some cases, yes! Expungement is the process of removing something from an individual’s criminal record. This can be done for certain types of convictions, like misdemeanors and felonies that have been committed a long time ago and do not carry any risk. Expungement also applies to juvenile charges.

Record sealing is similar, but it does not remove the information from your record—it just prevents it from being seen by the public. Record sealing is usually used in cases where the individual has received a conviction that could be seen as minor or non-threatening. This process blocks employers, landlords, and others from seeing the information on their background check.

It is important to note that expunging or sealing your record does not mean all of your records are cleared—it just means that certain information is not accessible to the public.

How Do I Go About Expunging or Sealing My Record?

The process of expunging or sealing your record can vary from state to state, so it’s important to research the specific laws in your area. In general, you will have to submit an application to the court system and provide evidence that supports why you should be allowed to have your records expunged or sealed. Your application must also be approved by a judge before it can take effect.

Once your application has been approved, all records related to the charges in question will be removed from databases like criminal background checks and arrest reports. This means that employers and other third parties will not be able to see the information on your criminal record.

Conclusion

It is important to remember that expungement and record sealing are not always easy processes. But if you want to clear your name or secure better job opportunities, it is definitely worth considering.

We hope this guide has provided you with useful information about criminal records and how they work. If you have any additional questions about criminal record expungement or record sealing, contact our Indianapolis defense attorneys at 317-636-7514, today. Our Indiana criminal expungement services start as low as $850!

Do All Jobs Run Background Checks?

Posted on July 22, 2022 by admin

If you are interviewing for a job position, whether fast food checkout clerk or dental hygienist, you can expect a background scan to be performed before you are officially hired on. Continue below to learn what you should know about background checks, including how much they are, who can run them, what they reveal, and even how you can seal or destroy undesirable marks on your personal record.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Background Checks

Are Background Checks Free?

Background checks come in all shapes and sizes. Some are free, while others offer tiers of packages depending on how much information you are looking for. Comprehensive background checks that reveal in-depth information about a person are usually higher in price, while basic scans are generally free or under $10. Government agencies, law enforcement, and employers use the most comprehensive background scanning programs, so there is no hiding anything from them.

Can Anyone Perform a Background Scan on Anybody?

Yes, anyone can perform on a background check on another person, or even themselves. Whether it’s a father preparing to send his daughter off to prom with a new boy, a woman getting ready for a blind date, or a nosy neighbor who just wants some dirt on the person living next door, background scanning sites are available to anyone who is willing to pay or put in the effort. Some background check sites are for authority use only, such as government officials, police, and similar parties.

What Shows Up on a Background Check Report?

As mentioned, background scans reveal information based on the extent of the scan. Basic background checks typically reveal just that, the basics, like name, address, phone number, email, previously known addresses and numbers, family obituaries, and maybe even traffic records. More comprehensive background checks will reveal the same kinds of information, plus juvenile records, criminal records, school history, and hospital records.

How Can I Make My Background Scans Employer-Approved?

Indiana now has a Second Chance Law that allows those who qualify to seal or expunge past criminal charges and arrests from their personal public records. This means that the general public would not be able to access or find your criminal blemish anywhere on your personal record, including employers, but also many others. But when it comes to job applications, licensing, and promotions, you can be in the clear once again.

Are you afraid that you cannot afford to clean up your criminal record? Think again! We offer criminal expungement services starting at a reasonable $850! Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our lawyers also offer free initial consultations.

People Most Likely to Have Background Check Ran On Them

Posted on March 11, 2022 by admin

Our world is much different today than it was generations before. Humans have always been nosy, but with the increasing applications of technology available to us now, we are even nosier than ever because such technology makes it easy to be. There are various portals and resources out there for performing historic scans on people. One such resource is a background check, and some are more prone to having one done on them than others.

Continue reading to learn which people are very likely to be entered into a background scanning program and why, plus what you can do if you are not happy with your criminal past in Indiana.

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Common Background Scan Targets

First Dates

With the new online dating trend in full motion, many men and women are going on first dates with strangers they’ve only communicated with through technology. Because this is becoming a more common approach to dating, first dates are happening more often with complete strangers, rather than a set-up by mutual friends. For one’s own protection and peace-of-mind, it is wise to perform a background check on a person you intend to go on a date with. You can check for driving records, arrest warrants, criminal convictions, owed child support, and more. Wouldn’t this give you a better understanding of who you are about to have dinner and drinks with?

Babysitters and Nannies

If you intend to leave your beloved children in the care of a stranger, perhaps a new babysitter or nanny, a background check can certainly come in handy. This is especially suggested for anyone interviewing and hiring new nannies, babysitters, and more. You will want to know if your new babysitter has a history with drugs and alcohol, or a poor driving record before letting your kids get into a car with them. A background check will better ensure the safety of your children.

House-Sitters and Housekeepers

If you are planning to go out of town for an extended period of time and need to appoint a person to care for your home while you are gone (i.e. mail, watering plants, letting the dogs out, etc.), it is best to perform a background check first. This also applies to housekeepers and maids. Before allowing a stranger or acquaintance to have access to your home, you will want to know if they have a criminal history of theft, drugs, and more.

Job Applicants

Job applicants are the most likely of them all to have a background check performed on them. Applying for any sort of formal job, whether a cashier at the local grocery store or a flight attendant for a major airline, will subject you to background scanning. After all, companies want to know who they are hiring, and a series of interviews cannot always reveal the deeper information about a person an employer would need to know in order to make a responsible hiring decision.

Employment background scans will look for education records, previous employers, job resignations, job losses, job responsibilities, professional credentials, military records, and more. It will also look for workers’ compensation suits and settlements, state licensing records, professional references, personal references, and more. Employer background scans might reveal credit scores, social security numbers, bank accounts, property ownership, assets, past credit loans, defaulted loans, repossessions, outstanding debt, bankruptcies, medical records, insurance records, biological children, dependents, and more.

Are you unhappy with your permanent record in Indiana? Is your criminal history holding you back from opportunities in life? Contact our esteemed lawyers for affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Are fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

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Is Criminal Record Expungement Allowed in Other States?

Posted on January 24, 2022 by admin

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.

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The Basics of Criminal Record Expungement Law

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.

U.S. States That Have Expungement Laws

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

Limitations to Criminal Record Expungement

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 Indiana expungement 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.

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!

Where to Get Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer Services Starting at $850

Posted on June 7, 2021 by admin

Don’t let a criminal record keep you from achieving your dreams. Start a new life with a clean slate by seeing if you qualify for criminal record expungement or sealing. Don’t think it’s in the budget? Think again. You may be eligible for criminal expungement lawyer services as low as $850! Continue reading to learn where you can get such affordable and reputable criminal record expungement legal assistance in Central Indiana, and how to learn your eligibility as soon as today!

Indianapolis Criminal Record Expungement Law Firm 317-636-7514

Open Up Doors in Your Life With a Cleaner Criminal Record

Here at the Indianapolis criminal defense law office of David E. Lewis, our Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers understand how difficult and unfair life can seem with a criminal record holding you back. Employment and job opportunities, promotions, rental homes, mortgage loans, and more can all be barely out of reach if you have an arrest or conviction on your criminal history report.

Taking Advantage of Indiana’s Second Chance Law Can Be the Best Decision You Ever Make

Indiana has a new law that is informally being called “Indiana’s Second Chance Law” because it truly gives past offenders a second chance at excelling in life in the same way they would have had they not had a criminal record. There are varying degrees of qualification, and the petition and filing process is extremely challenging, confusing, and strict. One simple spelling error or missed deadline can wipe away your chance at ever sealing or expunging your criminal record since people are only allowed to petition once in a lifetime. Any mistakes made will destroy your chances at succeeding with the process.

Your Leading Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Lawyers

For these reasons and more, it is vital for you to outsource professional legal assistance to ensure your applications are filled out properly and that all deadlines are met. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, is the Indianapolis expungement lawyer who can help you achieve this goal. He knows money can be tight, and truly believes that all people should have the opportunity to petition for expungement with legal assistance. That is why his expungement services start as low as $850.

Our Indianapolis Indiana Law Firm Offers:

☑ Free Initial Consultations
☑ Spanish Speaking Attorneys and Staff
☑ Home and Hospital Visits
☑ 24 Hour Phone Service
☑ Free Parking
☑ Out-of-State Attorney References
☑ Services Starting as Low as $850!

Are you ready to clean up your criminal history once and for all? Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our lawyer fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

You Should Also Read:

What is the Second Chance Act?
Can I Apply for Expungement With a Pending Criminal Charge?
What You Can and Cannot Expunge

Difference Between Criminal Pardons and Expungements

Posted on May 11, 2021 by admin

Laws are passed every day in states all across the country. But, if you are a past offender, or someone who has an arrest on their permanent record, Indiana’s Second Chance law is something you should pay closer attention to. One of the most common misunderstandings about criminal record expungement is what it actually does for a person. Many make the mistake of assuming that expunging a criminal record is the same as being granted a pardon. Unfortunately, they are not the same thing.

Continue reading to learn what a criminal pardon is, and how it differs from the criminal record expungement process.

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Legal Services 317-636-7514

What is a Criminal Pardon?

A criminal pardon is totally different from criminal record expungement. However, it is no surprise that many people confuse the two, as they have many similarities. Regardless of their parallels, they are different types of laws and legal principles. A legal pardon is the government’s way of forgiving a person for their crime or crimes. Depending on the state, if an individual has an offense pardoned by the government, it will most likely still show up on public databases, like standard background checks, but it will also reveal that the individual was pardoned for the incident.

What is Criminal Record Expungement?

In dissimilarity to being pardoned for a crime, criminal record expungement does not “excuse” or “forgive” an individual for the crimes they’ve committed. Instead, the crimes are treated as though they never happened. It is a classic case of forgive or forget, where pardons are “forgiving” and expungement is “forgetting.” When a person has their arrest records expunged, they no longer show up on public databases, and they are no longer penalized for their past criminal history. They are free to apply for jobs, bank loans, apartments, professional licenses, and more.

After expunging criminal records, a person can legally deny any past arrests or charges to employers, landlords, and more. But there are certain limitations too, and for those who wish to conceal their arrest records, it is in their best interest to learn these restrictions ahead of time by talking to a licensed criminal defense lawyer who specializes in expungement.

How to Expunge Criminal Records

Filing for expungement on your own is never advised because the process is very complicated and confusing for someone unfamiliar with state laws and procedures. On top of all the documents and papers that require proper filing, people filing can expect many more pitfalls and deadlines. In fact, 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. For this reason, you need a licensed criminal defense lawyer who is well-versed and experienced with the new expungement laws to help you with every aspect of filing, paperwork, deadlines, and more, and ensure your petition is managed correctly.

Are you ready to take advantage of Indiana’s Second Chance Law this year? Contact our esteemed lawyers for affordable criminal record expungement services in Indianapolis, Indiana. Fees start as low as $850 and consultations are free.

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