Felony Expungement in Indiana: What You Need to Know

Posted on October 16, 2025 by admin

A felony conviction can cast a long shadow, affecting your ability to find a job, secure housing, and move forward with your life. The weight of a criminal record can feel permanent, but in Indiana, there is a legal process that offers a second chance: criminal record expungement.

Expungement allows you to seal your criminal record from public view, providing a fresh start. This process can be transformative, opening doors that were once closed. However, navigating Indiana’s expungement laws can be complex. This guide will walk you through what you need to know about felony expungement in Indiana, from eligibility to the benefits of a clean slate.

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

Who is Eligible for Felony Expungement?

In Indiana, eligibility for felony expungement is determined by the severity of the offense and the time that has passed since the conviction. The primary law governing this process is Indiana Code 35-38-9. To be eligible, you must have fulfilled all the terms of your sentence, including probation, fines, and court costs.

Generally, you can only seek expungement once in your lifetime, so it’s critical to include all eligible convictions in your petition. If you have convictions in multiple counties, you must file petitions in each county within a one-year period.

Understanding the Waiting Periods

Patience is a key part of the expungement process. Indiana law requires specific waiting periods before a felony offender can apply for criminal record sealing. These periods, outlined in IC 35-38-9-4, begin after the date of conviction and vary based on the offense level:

Misdemeanors: 5 years
Level 6 Felonies reduced to Misdemeanors: 5 years
Level 6 Felonies: 8 years
More Serious Felonies (Levels 1-5): 8 years after the conviction or 3 years after the completion of your sentence, whichever is later.

It is crucial to wait until the required period has passed. Applying too early is a common mistake that can lead to the immediate denial of your petition.

What Factors Can Disqualify You?

Even if you meet the waiting period requirements, certain factors can prevent you from getting your record expunged. According to IC 35-38-9-5, you may be disqualified if you:

Are a registered sex or violent offender.
Have been convicted of official misconduct.
Were convicted of two or more separate felony offenses involving the use of a deadly weapon.
Have a new conviction on your record since the original offense.

An expungement lawyer can help you determine if any of these disqualifying factors apply to your situation.

The Expungement Application Process

The journey to expungement involves several precise steps. A mistake at any stage can delay or jeopardize your case. The process, detailed in IC 35-38-9-6, generally includes:

Gathering Information: Collect all necessary documents, including records of your convictions, arrest records, and proof that you have completed your sentence.
Drafting the Petition: Prepare a formal Petition for Expungement. This legal document must list all convictions you want to have expunged and affirm that you meet the eligibility criteria.
Filing the Petition: File the petition with the clerk of the court in the county where you were convicted. You will also need to pay a filing fee, though a waiver may be available if you cannot afford it.
Notifying Parties: You must formally notify the prosecuting attorney’s office, as required by IC 35-38-9-7. They have 30 days to review your petition and file an objection if they choose.

What to Expect at the Court Hearing

If the prosecutor does not object to your petition and you meet all statutory requirements, the court may grant the expungement without a hearing. However, if there is an objection, a court hearing will be scheduled.

During the hearing, you and your attorney will present your case to the judge. The prosecutor will have the opportunity to argue against the expungement. The judge will listen to both sides and review the evidence before making a final decision. Being prepared and having experienced legal representation is vital at this stage.

Request a Free Expungement Consultation in Indy ✅

The Benefits of a Clean Slate

Having a felony record expunged can be life-changing. Once your record is sealed, it is no longer accessible to the public, including most employers, landlords, and licensing agencies. The benefits include:

Better Job Opportunities: You can legally state that you have not been convicted of the expunged crime on most job applications.
Improved Housing Access: Landlords will no longer see the conviction on a standard background check.
Restoration of Rights: Expungement can help restore certain civil rights, such as the right to vote or own a firearm, though some restrictions may still apply.

While expungement seals your record from public view, it’s important to understand it doesn’t completely erase it. Law enforcement and certain government agencies can still access the records under specific circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a lawyer for the expungement process?

While you can file for expungement on your own, it is highly recommended to hire an experienced expungement lawyer. The process is complex, and an attorney can help you avoid common mistakes, handle objections from the prosecutor, and represent you in court.

How much does it cost to get my record expunged?

Costs can vary. You will need to pay court filing fees, and if you hire an attorney, you will also have legal fees. However, the long-term financial benefits of a clean record often outweigh the initial cost.

Can I be denied expungement even if I am eligible?

Yes. A judge has the final say and can deny a petition, especially for more serious felonies, if they believe granting it would not be in the public’s best interest. This is another reason why having a skilled lawyer is so important.

How long does the expungement process take?

The timeline can range from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of your case and whether the prosecutor objects.

Your Path to a Fresh Start

Navigating the criminal record expungement process in Indiana requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the law. While the journey may seem daunting, the freedom that comes with a clean slate is invaluable. You don’t have to face this complex process alone.

If you are a felony offender in Indiana seeking a second chance, the first step is to understand your rights and options. Consult with our experienced expungement lawyers who can provide the clarity and guidance you need to move forward with confidence. Book a free consultation today.

Place Your Call Now

Clearing Your Record in Indiana: A Step-by-Step Guide to Expungement

Posted on September 30, 2025 by admin

A criminal record can feel like a shadow that follows you everywhere—affecting job opportunities, housing applications, and even personal relationships. If you’re living in Indiana with a criminal record that’s holding you back, criminal record expungement might be the fresh start you’ve been seeking.

Expungement is a legal process that allows eligible individuals to have certain criminal records sealed or removed from public view. While your record won’t disappear entirely from law enforcement databases, it becomes inaccessible to most employers, landlords, and the general public during background checks.

Understanding Indiana’s Second Chance Laws and expungement requirements can be the first step toward reclaiming your future. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about criminal record sealing in Indiana, from determining your eligibility to navigating potential challenges in the process.

Call 317-636-7514 for Affordable Indianapolis Criminal Record Clearing Services

Understanding Expungement Eligibility in Indiana

Before diving into the expungement application process, you must first determine whether your criminal record qualifies for expungement under Indiana law. The state has specific expungement eligibility criteria that vary depending on the type and severity of your offense.

Waiting Periods by Offense Type

Indiana’s expungement requirements include mandatory waiting periods that must pass before you can file your petition:

Arrests Without Convictions: If you were arrested but never convicted, you can typically apply for expungement immediately, provided no charges are pending.
Misdemeanor Convictions: You must wait at least five years from the date of conviction or completion of your sentence, whichever is later.
Level 6 Felonies and Class D Felonies: These require an eight-year waiting period from the date of conviction or completion of sentence.
Higher-Level Felonies: More serious felonies generally require longer waiting periods, and some may not be eligible for expungement at all.

Disqualifying Factors

Certain circumstances can make you ineligible for expungement, regardless of the waiting period. You cannot pursue criminal record expungement if you:

Have pending criminal charges
Were convicted of certain violent crimes or sex offenses
Have been convicted of multiple felonies (with some exceptions)
Failed to complete all terms of your sentence, including probation and restitution payments

Step-by-Step Guide to Indiana Expungement

Successfully navigating the expungement process requires careful attention to detail and strict adherence to legal procedures. Here’s how to approach each phase of your expungement application.

Gathering Necessary Documents

The foundation of a successful expungement petition lies in thorough documentation. You’ll need to collect several key documents before filing your petition:

Criminal History Records: Obtain certified copies of your criminal history from the Indiana State Police. This official record will show all arrests, charges, and convictions on your record.
Court Records: Request copies of all relevant court documents from the clerk’s office in the county where your case was handled. This includes charging documents, plea agreements, and sentencing orders.
Proof of Sentence Completion: Gather documentation proving you’ve fulfilled all requirements of your sentence, including probation completion certificates, proof of community service, and receipts for fines or restitution payments.
Personal Information: Prepare current identification, proof of residence, and any name change documents if applicable.

Filing the Petition

Once you’ve assembled your documentation, you’ll need to file a formal expungement petition with the appropriate court. This process involves several critical steps:

Determine the Correct Court: File your petition in the circuit or superior court of the county where the conviction occurred. If you have convictions in multiple counties, you’ll need separate petitions for each jurisdiction.
Complete Required Forms: Indiana courts provide specific forms for expungement petitions. These forms must be completed accurately and completely, as errors can result in delays or denials.
Pay Filing Fees: Most courts require filing fees for expungement petitions, though fee waivers may be available for those who qualify based on income.
Serve Notice: You must provide notice to the prosecuting attorney’s office, giving them an opportunity to respond to your petition.

Attending Court Hearings

After filing your petition, the court may schedule a hearing to review your case. While not all expungement cases require hearings, being prepared is essential:

Prepare Your Case: Be ready to explain why expungement would serve the interests of justice and demonstrate your rehabilitation since the conviction.
Bring Supporting Evidence: Character references, employment records, educational achievements, and community involvement can strengthen your case.
Dress Professionally: Treat the hearing with the same respect you would any court appearance, dressing professionally and arriving early.

Request an Expungement Eligibility Review Today! ✅

Potential Challenges and How to Address Them

Even eligible candidates may face obstacles during the expungement process. Understanding common challenges can help you prepare for and overcome potential setbacks.

Prosecutorial Opposition

Prosecutors have the right to object to your expungement petition. They might oppose your request if they believe you haven’t demonstrated sufficient rehabilitation or if they have concerns about public safety. To address potential opposition:

Document your rehabilitation efforts thoroughly
Gather strong character references from employers, community leaders, or counselors
Be prepared to explain how circumstances have changed since your conviction

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Missing or inaccurate paperwork is one of the most common reasons for expungement delays or denials. To avoid these issues:

Double-check all forms for accuracy before submission
Ensure you have certified copies of all required documents
Consider having an expungement lawyer review your paperwork before filing

Outstanding Financial Obligations

Courts will not grant expungement if you still owe fines, fees, or restitution from your original case. Before filing your petition:

Contact the clerk’s office to verify any outstanding balances
Make payment arrangements if you cannot pay in full immediately
Obtain receipts or documentation proving payment

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana Expungement

Can I expunge multiple offenses at once?

Yes, Indiana law allows you to include multiple eligible offenses in a single expungement petition, provided they all occurred in the same county. This approach can be more cost-effective than filing separate petitions.

What happens if my expungement petition is denied?

If your petition is denied, you typically must wait at least three years before filing another petition for the same offense. However, you can appeal the denial or address the reasons for denial and refile sooner in some circumstances.

Will my expunged record be completely erased?

Criminal record sealing doesn’t completely erase your record. While it becomes inaccessible to most employers and the public, law enforcement agencies and certain government entities may still have access under specific circumstances.

Do I need an attorney to file for expungement?

While Indiana law allows individuals to represent themselves in expungement proceedings, the process can be complex. An experienced expungement lawyer can help ensure your petition is properly prepared and increase your chances of success.

How much does it cost to expunge a criminal record in Indiana?

Costs vary by county but typically include court filing fees, document preparation costs, and attorney fees if you choose legal representation. Filing fees alone can range from $100 to $300 per petition.

Taking the Next Step Toward a Clean Record

Criminal record expungement offers a legitimate path to moving beyond past mistakes and building a brighter future. The process requires patience, attention to detail, and often considerable paperwork, but the benefits of clearing your record can be life-changing.

Successfully expunging your record can open doors to better employment opportunities, housing options, and educational prospects that may have been closed due to your criminal history. Many people find that the peace of mind alone makes the expungement process worthwhile.

However, navigating Indiana’s expungement laws and procedures can be challenging, especially when facing potential opposition or complex legal requirements. Consulting with an experienced expungement attorney can provide valuable guidance, increase your chances of success, and ensure you don’t miss critical deadlines or requirements that could jeopardize your petition.

Take the first step toward a fresh start by determining your eligibility for expungement. Contact us today to Schedule an Eligibility Review. Our team is ready to provide personalized guidance and help you understand your options. Don’t wait—reach out now to begin the process of reclaiming your future.

Call Now to Check Your Eligibility

How to Get a Job with a Criminal Record: Proven Strategies That Work

Posted on September 19, 2025 by admin

Finding employment after a criminal conviction can feel overwhelming. The statistics paint a challenging picture—individuals with criminal records face an unemployment rate of over 27%, significantly higher than the general population. However, these numbers don’t tell the whole story of resilience, growth, and second chances.

A criminal record represents a chapter in your past, not the entirety of your future. Thousands of people successfully rebuild their careers after conviction, armed with the right strategies, resources, and mindset. This comprehensive guide will walk you through proven approaches to secure meaningful employment, from understanding your legal rights to mastering interview techniques.

Whether you’re seeking your first job after incarceration or looking to advance your career despite past mistakes, the path forward exists. With preparation, persistence, and the right support system, you can overcome barriers and build the professional life you deserve.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Record Sealing Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana

Understanding Your Legal Rights and Protections

Before diving into job search strategies, it’s essential to understand the legal landscape that can work in your favor. Several laws and policies exist to promote fair hiring practices and provide second chances for individuals with criminal records.

Ban the Box Movement

“Ban the Box” policies remove criminal history questions from initial job applications, allowing employers to evaluate candidates based on qualifications first. These policies exist in many cities and states, giving you the opportunity to make a positive first impression before your background becomes a factor.

When applying to employers with Ban the Box policies, focus on showcasing your skills, experience, and potential. This initial screening phase is your chance to demonstrate why you’re the right candidate for the position, independent of your criminal history.

Expungement and Record Sealing

Criminal record expungement can significantly improve your employment prospects by legally sealing or removing certain convictions from public view. In Indiana, you may be eligible for expungement if you meet specific criteria, including waiting periods that vary based on the type and severity of your conviction.

For misdemeanor convictions in Indiana, you typically must wait five years after completing your sentence. Felony convictions generally require an eight-year waiting period. However, eligibility requirements are complex and vary by case type, so consulting with an experienced attorney or contacting Indiana Legal Services for free assistance is crucial.

Remember that expungement laws differ significantly between states. If you live outside Indiana, research your local requirements or seek legal counsel to understand your options.

Building Skills and Pursuing Education

Employers value candidates who demonstrate commitment to personal and professional growth. Investing in your skills and education shows initiative and can help offset concerns about your criminal background.

Identify In-Demand Skills

Research job markets in your area to identify growing industries and sought-after skills. Many sectors, including healthcare support, construction, technology, and logistics, actively hire individuals with criminal records and offer opportunities for advancement.

Consider pursuing certifications in fields like:

Commercial driving (CDL)
HVAC installation and repair
Medical billing and coding
Food service management
Welding and manufacturing

Leverage Online Learning Platforms

Free and low-cost online courses can help you develop marketable skills from home. Platforms like Coursera, Khan Academy, and YouTube offer training in everything from basic computer skills to advanced technical certifications.

Document your learning journey by earning certificates and adding completed courses to your resume. This demonstrates initiative and a commitment to self-improvement that employers appreciate.

Building a Professional Network

Networking remains one of the most effective ways to find employment, especially when you’re overcoming barriers like a criminal record. Personal connections can provide job leads, recommendations, and insights into company cultures that might be more accepting of your background.

Start with Support Organizations

Organizations specifically designed to help ex-offenders often provide networking opportunities alongside other services. Groups like 70 Million Jobs focus exclusively on connecting people with criminal records to employment opportunities, while Defy Ventures offers entrepreneurship training and professional networks.

Engage with Local Community Resources

Local Goodwill offices, career centers, and faith-based organizations frequently host job fairs and networking events. These venues often attract employers who are already committed to fair-chance hiring practices.

Utilize Social Media Professionally

LinkedIn can be a powerful tool for professional networking, even with a criminal background. Focus your profile on your skills, experience, and professional goals rather than personal history. Join industry groups and engage in discussions to build your professional reputation online.

Want to Seal Your Criminal Record in Indiana? ✨

Crafting an Effective Resume

Your resume should highlight your strengths while honestly addressing gaps in employment history. The goal is to present yourself as a qualified candidate while preparing for inevitable questions about your background.

Focus on Skills and Achievements

Lead with a strong summary that emphasizes your skills, work ethic, and career goals. Use specific examples of accomplishments, whether from previous employment, volunteer work, or personal projects completed during incarceration.

Address Employment Gaps Strategically

Be prepared to explain gaps in your employment history, but don’t volunteer information about your criminal record on your resume. Instead, focus on productive activities during those periods, such as education, volunteer work, or family care responsibilities.

Include Relevant Training and Certifications

Any education, training, or certifications you’ve completed—including programs completed while incarcerated—belong on your resume. These demonstrate your commitment to personal growth and professional development.

Mastering the Interview Process

The interview stage is where you’ll likely need to address your criminal background directly. Preparation and honesty are your best strategies for navigating these conversations successfully.

Prepare for Common Questions

Practice answering difficult questions in a way that demonstrates growth and accountability:

“Tell me about your past mistakes and what you’ve learned from them.”

Focus on personal growth, the lessons you’ve learned, and how those experiences have made you a more responsible person. Avoid making excuses and instead emphasize your commitment to positive change.

“How do you ensure that you won’t repeat past behaviors?”

Discuss specific steps you’ve taken, such as therapy, support groups, educational programs, or lifestyle changes. Provide concrete examples of how you’ve applied these lessons in your daily life.

“Why should we trust you?”

Highlight your commitment to honesty and transparency. Explain how your experiences have taught you the value of trust and how you’re dedicated to being a reliable, trustworthy employee.

Practice the STAR Method

When discussing your background or answering behavioral questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses clearly and positively. This approach helps you stay focused and demonstrates your ability to learn and grow from experiences.

Research Company Culture

Some employers are more open to hiring individuals with criminal records than others. Research potential employers to understand their values and any fair-chance hiring commitments they may have made publicly.

Resources and Support Organizations

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Numerous organizations provide specialized support for individuals with criminal records seeking employment:

National Reentry Resource Center offers comprehensive information on reentry programs, including employment assistance, housing resources, and legal support across different states.

Defy Ventures provides entrepreneurship training and mentorship opportunities, helping individuals with criminal histories start their own businesses or develop skills for employment.

Local Goodwill and Career Centers in your area likely offer job training, placement services, and workshops specifically tailored to help ex-offenders find employment.

The Fortune Society provides a wide range of services including job placement assistance, counseling, and housing support, primarily serving the New York area but offering resources applicable nationwide.

BLOG RECAP: Taking Action on Your Employment Journey

Your criminal record doesn’t define your potential or limit your future opportunities. Success requires patience, preparation, and persistence, but meaningful employment is absolutely achievable.

Start by assessing your current situation honestly. Check your eligibility for expungement in Indiana through Indiana Legal Services, or consult with legal counsel if you live in another state. Even if expungement isn’t possible, understanding your legal rights empowers you to make informed decisions.

Next, identify skill gaps and pursue relevant certifications or courses that align with your career goals. Update your resume to highlight your strengths and practice answering challenging interview questions until you feel confident discussing your background professionally.

Connect with support organizations in your area to expand your network and access resources designed specifically for your situation. Finally, begin applying for jobs with a focus on employers known for fair-chance hiring policies.

Remember that rejection is part of the job search process for everyone, regardless of background. Each application and interview is an opportunity to refine your approach and get closer to the right opportunity. Your past mistakes don’t determine your future success—your commitment to growth and positive change does.

If you’re in Indianapolis and need help with criminal record expungement, don’t wait to take action. Contact our trusted expungement lawyers today to explore your options and take a crucial step toward a fresh start.

Call Now to Check Your Eligibility

How Expungement Can Transform Your Future in Indianapolis

Posted on August 26, 2025 by admin

A criminal record can feel like a permanent shadow, following you through job applications, housing searches, and countless other opportunities. But what if that shadow could be lifted? Criminal record expungement offers a legal pathway to essentially erase certain convictions from your record, giving you a fresh start and the chance to rebuild your life without the constant burden of past mistakes.

Expungement is a legal process that allows eligible individuals to have specific criminal records sealed or destroyed, making them inaccessible to most employers, landlords, and the general public. While the record may still exist for certain government agencies and specific situations, expungement provides substantial relief from the long-term consequences of a criminal conviction.

Understanding expungement requirements and the potential benefits can be life-changing. Recent amendments to Indiana’s expungement laws have expanded eligibility, creating new opportunities for individuals who previously had no recourse. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about expungement in Indianapolis, from eligibility requirements to the transformative benefits of achieving a clean criminal record.

Call 317-636-7514 to Contact Our Expungement Law Firm in Indianapolis

Understanding Expungement Eligibility in Indiana

Not everyone qualifies for expungement, but recent changes to Indiana law have significantly expanded who can apply. Expungement eligibility depends on several key factors, including the type of conviction, the time elapsed since your sentence was completed, and your criminal history.

Time Requirements and Waiting Periods

Indiana law mandates specific waiting periods before you can file an expungement application. For most misdemeanors, you must wait five years after completing your sentence, including any probation or parole. Felony convictions typically require an eight-year waiting period, though some exceptions apply.

Recent amendments have created more opportunities for individuals with Class D felonies, which were previously excluded from expungement eligibility. These changes reflect Indiana’s recognition that people deserve second chances and the opportunity to move forward from past mistakes.

Criminal History Considerations

Your overall criminal history plays a crucial role in determining expungement eligibility. Individuals with extensive criminal records or certain types of violent offenses may face restrictions. However, many people with isolated incidents or non-violent offenses find they qualify for relief.

Importantly, you cannot have any pending criminal charges when filing your expungement petition. This requirement ensures that expungement is available to individuals who have truly moved past their criminal behavior and are committed to living law-abiding lives.

Life-Changing Benefits of Criminal Record Sealing

The advantages of expungement extend far beyond simply having a cleaner background check. A sealed record can fundamentally transform your opportunities and quality of life in numerous ways.

Employment Opportunities

Employment discrimination based on criminal history is one of the most significant barriers individuals face. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal record can immediately eliminate you from consideration, regardless of your qualifications or the nature of your conviction.

With an expunged record, you can honestly answer “no” when asked about criminal convictions on most job applications. This opens doors to careers that were previously inaccessible and allows your skills and experience to speak for themselves rather than being overshadowed by past mistakes.

Housing and Rental Applications

Finding quality housing becomes significantly easier with a clean criminal record. Many landlords routinely reject applicants with criminal histories, limiting your options to substandard housing or neighborhoods with limited opportunities. Expungement removes this barrier, allowing you to compete equally with other applicants and secure better housing for yourself and your family.

Educational and Professional Licensing

Certain educational programs and professional licenses may be unavailable to individuals with criminal records. Expungement can restore access to these opportunities, enabling you to pursue higher education, professional development, and specialized careers that require licensing.

Financial Benefits

Beyond immediate employment advantages, expungement can have lasting financial impacts. Better job opportunities typically mean higher wages, and improved housing options can lead to living in areas with better schools and more economic opportunities for your family.

Learn More About Indiana’s 2^nd Chance Law! ✌

Navigating the Expungement Process

The expungement application process involves several steps and requires careful attention to detail. Understanding this process helps ensure your petition has the best chance of success.

Initial Assessment and Documentation

The first step involves determining your eligibility and gathering necessary documentation. This includes obtaining copies of your criminal record, court documents, and proof that you’ve completed all aspects of your sentence. An expungement attorney can help ensure you have all required materials and that your case meets eligibility requirements.

Filing Your Petition

The expungement petition must be filed in the court where your conviction occurred. The petition includes detailed information about your conviction, evidence of rehabilitation, and arguments for why expungement serves the interests of justice. Proper preparation of these documents is crucial for success.

Court Proceedings and Expungement Fees

Depending on your case, you may need to attend a court hearing where a judge will consider your petition. Expungement fees vary, but the investment in your future opportunities typically far outweighs the costs involved. Some individuals may qualify for fee waivers based on financial hardship.

Common Expungement Misconceptions

Many people have misunderstandings about what expungement can and cannot accomplish, which can prevent them from pursuing this valuable opportunity.

Expungement Doesn’t Restore All Rights Automatically

One significant misconception is that expungement automatically restores all civil rights. While expungement provides substantial benefits, it doesn’t automatically restore gun rights in Indiana. Individuals seeking to restore firearm privileges may need to file a separate petition specifically for that purpose.

Disclosure Requirements Still Apply in Certain Situations

Another common misunderstanding involves disclosure requirements. While you can generally answer “no” to questions about criminal convictions after expungement, certain positions still require disclosure. Jobs in law enforcement, positions involving children, and some government roles may require you to disclose expunged records.

Understanding these limitations doesn’t diminish the value of expungement—it simply ensures you have realistic expectations about what the process can accomplish.

Expungement Isn’t Guaranteed

Some people assume that meeting eligibility requirements guarantees expungement approval. While eligibility is essential, judges have discretion in granting expungement petitions. Factors such as your behavior since the conviction, evidence of rehabilitation, and the nature of your offense all influence the decision.

Moving Forward

Expungement represents more than just a legal process—it’s an opportunity to reclaim your future and pursue opportunities that may have seemed impossible. The benefits of a clean criminal record extend throughout every aspect of your life, from career advancement to family stability.

Recent changes to Indiana’s expungement laws have created new possibilities for individuals who previously had no options. However, navigating the legal requirements and ensuring your petition is properly prepared requires expertise and attention to detail.

If you’re considering expungement in Indianapolis, don’t let this opportunity pass by. An experienced expungement attorney can evaluate your eligibility, guide you through the process, and advocate for your fresh start. The investment in professional legal assistance often makes the difference between a successful petition and a missed opportunity.

Your past doesn’t have to define your future. Contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law to discuss your options and take the first step toward the clean slate you deserve. Our fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

Book a Free Eligibility Review Now

Will My Conviction Fall Off My Record After a Long Time?

Posted on January 29, 2021 by admin

Many people with criminal records dating back decades or more often wonder if their conviction will just automatically disappear, or fall of their permanent record. If you were convicted of a crime several years ago, or perhaps even a generation ago, do not put much time or energy into believing this common myth. Criminal convictions are forever; that is why they call it a permanent record. Fortunately, if your conviction really was a long time ago, you already meet one of the most impactful criteria for Indiana criminal record expungement: time.

Continue reading to learn what Indiana’s Second Chance Law can do for you now that your conviction is so far back in history, as well as how to learn your eligibility for criminal record expungement this year.

Criminal Record Expungement Attorney in Indianapolis 317-636-7514

Criminal Matters Stay on Your Record Forever

Although traffic violations are known to fall off your driving record after so many years, as advertised by many insurance companies, criminal records are not so lucky. Once convicted, or even arrested and charged, that incident and information remain on your public, permanent record, your whole life, and even after you die. Unfortunately, regardless of how long ago, or how circumstantial your conviction might have been, it certainly does its job of holding you back from true glory in life.

How Criminal Records Hold You Back

A criminal record can impose challenges when getting a job, facing a promotion, renting a home, obtaining a professional license, getting a bank loan, applying for college or graduate school, and even dating! Your criminal record can be accessed by anyone who tries to find it, including employers, landlords, admissions offices, Deans, police officers, government officials, and as mentioned, potential dating partners.

How You Can Make Your Conviction Go Away

Indiana’s Second Chance Law was passed several years ago, allowing those who qualify to seal or expunge criminal records, whether that be arrests and/or convictions. As mentioned, one of the most important prerequisites to meet for being eligible for criminal record expungement is time. A certain amount of time must have passed from the date of your conviction in order to meet the first qualification. Keep in mind, there are several other factors that influence eligibility requirements for criminal expungement in Indiana, including the type of crime you were convicted of, your current legal matters, and more.

How to Know For Sure

Talk to a certified criminal defense lawyer who specializes in criminal record expungement in Indiana. Not only can they determine whether or not you qualify, but they can also help you with your petition and meet all of the necessary deadlines. You only get one chance to apply, and a little error can revoke your chance forever. An Indiana criminal record expungement lawyer can make sure your petition is correct and meets all requirements and deadlines.

Where to Get Criminal Record Expungement Help in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 to get started on the Indiana criminal record expungement application process. We provide a wide variety of resources and services concerning the new Indiana expungement laws, and most misdemeanors and many felonies can now be eliminated from criminal history records. All first consultations are free, and once we examine the variables surrounding your case, our attorneys can identify whether or not your criminal record can be expunged. You can call anytime and speak with a professional legal representative about scheduling your first consultation to expunge criminal records in Indianapolis, Indiana. Contact us to learn more, today.

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

Where to Get Legal Assistance With Expungement in Indiana

Posted on December 18, 2020 by admin

Criminal records simply hold you back in life. But have you heard? Indiana has passed new laws allowing people with criminal or arrest records to conceal these records from the general public. Make the right choice and choose our seasoned criminal defense law firm for criminal record expungement filing assistance in Indiana. Why? Well for starters, our rates start as low as $850!

Continue below to learn more reasons to choose us for criminal record expungement legal service in Indiana.

Your Answer to Affordable and Qualified Criminal Record Expungement Legal Help in Indiana.

Act Now. You Might Be Running Out of Time!

Currently in Indiana, for those who qualify, public court and arrest records can be sealed and inaccessible from the general public. This Indiana Second Change Law opens up several doors for people with criminal histories, arrests, and legal violations. This law will not last long, as there are many lobbyist parties against it, so act fast and get your petition started right away!

Get Qualified Expungement Assistance in Indiana

Our esteemed criminal defense law firm can help you take advantage of this new law, as we provide criminal record expungement services for all residents in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are well-versed and experienced in the current Indiana expungement laws, and provides professional representation for anyone who qualifies. You must learn if you qualify by speaking with one of our licensed defense attorneys who has comprehensive knowledge of all criminal record expungement and record sealing eligibility requirements. Here at our Indiana criminal defense law firm, we are the expungement law experts to count on for progress and results!

Sealed Records are the Key to a Better Future

A sealed record cannot be accessed by potential employers, landlords, banks, insurance companies, nosy neighbors, and the rest of the general public. This allows opportunities for new jobs, residences, traveling privileges, peace of mind, and much more. Rates start as low as $850, and increase with the degree of criminal history. Felonies, misdemeanors, arrests, violations, detentions, traffic tickets, and more are all sealed from public access.

Trust our experienced criminal defense attorneys for professional criminal record expungement representation in Indiana. Rates start as low as $850!

Our seasoned expungement attorneys are especially well-versed in the new Indiana criminal record expungement laws and procedures. This means past arrests, charges, and convictions will not show up on public databases, employee background checks, loan application authorizations, and more!

But Wait! You Need a Lawyer to File!

The New Indiana Second Chance Laws come with several stipulations, prerequisites, and strict procedure guidelines, which is why you should always hire a proficient lawyer to assist you in the process. Just one little filing or application mistake can cost you your one-in-a-lifetime opportunity to expunge your criminal records for good. These laws are not permanent just yet, and may go away at any time, so act fast and see if you qualify!

Learn More About Qualifying for Indiana Record Expungement

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