Tag Archives: Indiana Second Chance Law

Understanding the Benefits of Clearing Your Criminal Record

Posted on by

Having a criminal record can be an enormous hindrance in life. It can prevent you from getting jobs, housing, and loans. However, there is hope for those with criminal records: criminal record expungement. Indiana’s Second Chance Law allows individuals to clear their criminal records if they meet certain criteria. This process can be complex and time consuming so it’s important to have an experienced expungement attorney on your side who understands the law and knows how to best advocate for you during the process of clearing your criminal record.

In this blog post we will discuss the benefits of having a criminal record cleared by exploring Indiana’s Second Chance Law and what it means for those seeking a clean slate.

Call 317-636-7514 for Licensed Criminal Record Expungement Services in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 for Licensed Criminal Record Expungement Services in Indianapolis Indiana

What is Indiana’s Second Chance Law?

Under Indiana’s Second Chance Law, criminal records may be expunged if the individual has successfully completed their sentence and not been convicted of any other criminal offenses within five years. A criminal record must also be eligible for expungement under Indiana law in order to be cleared. If an individual meets these criteria, they will benefit from having a criminal record cleared in many ways.

Top Reasons Why You Want a Cleaner Criminal Record

First, clearing your criminal record means that you are no longer burdened by the stigma of past mistakes or criminal behavior. This can open up new job opportunities as employers are more likely to hire individuals with a clean criminal background than those with a criminal record. Additionally, it can help improve a person’s standing in society and allow them to move forward with their lives without the stigma of criminal records hanging over them.

Second, clearing your criminal record can also make it easier to obtain housing and loans. Landlords and lenders are often more likely to do business with individuals who have no criminal history, so having a criminal record expunged can increase an individual’s chances of being approved for housing or a loan.

Finally, clearing your criminal record can provide peace of mind as you won’t need to constantly worry about background checks or other legal issues arising from criminal behavior or convictions in the past. This can be especially helpful if you plan on traveling internationally as some countries deny entry to individuals with criminal records.

What ‘Expungement’ Actually Means

It is important to note that expungement does not completely erase criminal records and charges may still appear on certain criminal background checks. However, expunging criminal records can be a useful tool for those seeking to move past criminal behavior and begin leading a productive life with reduced stigma.

Wish to Clear Your Criminal Record in Indiana?

If you are wondering how to go about clearing your criminal record in Indiana, working with an experienced Indianapolis expungement attorney is the best option. An expungement lawyer will understand the specific laws of Indiana’s Second Chance Law and ensure that all documentation is filed correctly. They will also provide guidance throughout the entire process to ensure that it goes as smoothly as possible and ends with successful results.

Are you eager to find a professional criminal defense lawyer who can help resolve your legal issues in Indiana? Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our expungement fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

Related Posts:

The Benefits of Having a Clean Criminal Record
Reclaiming Your Rights with the Indiana Second Chance Law
Warning: An Expunged Criminal Record is NOT Destroyed

How to Seal Your Criminal Records in the State of Indiana

Posted on by

If you have been convicted of a crime in the State of Indiana, it can be difficult to move forward with your life. A criminal record can haunt you for years, making it hard to find employment and housing. Fortunately, there is still hope – if you are eligible, you may be able to seal or expunge your criminal records in Indiana. Sealing or expunging your records will make them inaccessible by most employers and landlords.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to go about sealing or expunging your criminal records in the State of Indiana so that you can start fresh and move on with your life.

Call 317-636-7514 for Help With Criminal Record Sealing in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Call 317-636-7514 for Help With Criminal Record Sealing in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Record Sealing Versus Expungement

First, it’s important to understand the difference between record sealing and expungement. Record sealing means that your criminal records are sealed from public view but can still be viewed by law enforcement or other government agencies. Expungement is a more permanent process where eligible criminal records are completely destroyed, meaning they cannot be accessed by anyone but yourself.

Eligibility Requirements for Criminal Record Sealing

In order to get your criminal records sealed or expunged in Indiana, you must meet certain criteria. For example, you may not be eligible if you have multiple convictions or if the conviction is for a serious crime such as murder or sexual assault. Additionally, there may be waiting periods depending on the type of conviction and when it occurred. It’s important to note that not all criminal records are eligible for either sealing or expungement.

Hire a Criminal Expungement Lawyer

If you believe you may be eligible, the next step is to hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer who specializes in appeals and expungements lawyer. An expungement lawyer can review your criminal record and determine if you are in fact eligible for sealing or expungement. If so, the attorney will then complete all necessary paperwork to begin the process. In some cases, it’s possible to do this yourself; however, having an experienced lawyer on your side is often a wise investment as they can ensure that everything goes smoothly and that no mistakes are made along the way.

An Expungement Attorney is Key to a Successful Record Sealing Process

Sealing or expunging your criminal records in Indiana is not always easy, but it can be done if you know what steps to take. With the right help and guidance, you can start anew and move forward with your life. If you think you may be eligible for sealing or expunging your criminal records in Indiana, contact an experienced expungement lawyer today to get started on this process.

Are the repercussions of your criminal past limiting the chances for personal and professional success? 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.

Related Posts:

Can I Seal My Juvenile Criminal Records?
Start the New Year Off Right By Sealing Your Indiana Criminal Records
Expungement or Record Sealing: Which Do I Qualify For?

What You Need to Know Before Applying for Criminal Record Expungement

Posted on by

Having a criminal record can make it difficult to achieve your goals, from finding housing and employment to pursuing education and other opportunities. Fortunately, criminal record expungement is an option that may help you clear your criminal history. Expungement refers to the process of legally destroying or sealing criminal records so they cannot be accessed by the public. However, there are some important things you should know before applying for criminal record expungement.

In this blog post, we’ll cover what you need to know about criminal record expungement including eligibility requirements, application processes, and how an experienced expungement lawyer can help guide you through the process.

Call 317-636-7514 for Certified Expungement Help in Indiana.
Call 317-636-7514 for Certified Expungement Help in Indiana.

Top Considerations Surrounding Indiana’s Second Chance Act

Eligibility Requirements for Expungement

Before you can apply for criminal record expungement, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These vary by state and may include factors such as the type of offense, the nature of your criminal history, how long ago it occurred, and more. It’s important to research the criminal record expungement laws in your state to verify that you meet the requirements.

Expungement Application Process

The criminal record expungement application process typically involves filing an application with a court or state agency and submitting supporting documents. Depending on your situation, you may also need to appear in court for a hearing or provide additional evidence. It’s important to note that this process can be complicated and time-consuming.

The Role of an Expungement Lawyer

An experienced Indiana expungement lawyer can help make the criminal record expungement process easier and less stressful by providing legal advice, helping to prepare documents, and representing you in court. A knowledgeable lawyer will be familiar with the criminal record expungement laws in Indiana and can help ensure that you meet all the required eligibility criteria.

Speak to an Indianapolis Expungement Attorney Today

With the right knowledge and guidance, criminal record expungement can be a useful tool for those seeking to clear their criminal history and create new opportunities for themselves. If you or someone you know is considering criminal record expungement, contact an experienced Indianapolis expungement lawyer for help understanding the process and how it could benefit you. By taking the time to research criminal record expungement laws and seek assistance from an experienced expungement lawyer, you can take steps towards clearing your criminal history and pursuing a brighter future.

Are you motivated to begin your journey of applying for an expungement on your criminal record in Indiana? Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our expungement fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

Related Posts:

What You Need to Know About Indiana’s Second Chance Law
Should I Expunge a Criminal Charge That Never Ended With a Conviction?
Felony Records That Are Eligible For Expungement

Reclaiming Your Rights with the Indiana Second Chance Law

Posted on by

If you’ve been convicted of a crime in Indiana, it can be difficult to move on with your life. You may find that your criminal record makes it hard to get a job, housing, or other opportunities. But the Indiana Second Chance Law offers hope for those who have paid their debt to society and are ready for a fresh start. This law allows individuals to expunge their criminal records and reclaim their rights as citizens of Indiana. In this blog post, we will discuss how the Indiana Second Chance Law works, who is eligible for expungement under this law and what steps you need to take if you want to clear your criminal record in Indiana.

So, if you’re looking for a second chance at a better quality of life, read on!

Call 317-636-7514 to Meet With an Indiana Second Chance Lawyer Today!
Call 317-636-7514 to Meet With an Indiana Second Chance Lawyer Today!

How Criminal Record Expungement Can Help You

The Indiana Second Chance Law was enacted in 2019 to give people the opportunity to expunge their criminal records and start anew. Under this law, Indiana residents who have been convicted of any misdemeanor or felony can petition a court to have their criminal records expunged. It is important to note that not all crimes are eligible for expungement. Indiana state law outlines the specific types of misdemeanor and felony convictions that can be expunged under Indiana’s Second Chance Law.

In addition, certain conditions must be met in order for someone to become eligible for criminal record expungement. For example, Indiana residents must have completed all court-ordered sentences within a certain amount of time before they can file a petition for expungement. Indiana residents must also have been free from any criminal behavior or arrests within a certain amount of time before they can become eligible to seek criminal record expungement.

Once you’ve determined that you meet the requirements outlined in Indiana state law, it’s time to take the steps necessary to expunge your criminal record. The Indiana Second Chance Law requires Indiana residents to file a petition with the court in the county where their conviction took place. You will need to submit several documents with your petition, such as proof of completion of all court-ordered sentences and evidence that you have met all other criteria for criminal record expungement. After the court reviews your petition and all necessary documents, it will decide whether or not to expunge your criminal record.

Get a 2nd Change at Life With Criminal Record Expungement Services

Getting a second chance can be an incredibly powerful thing, and Indiana’s Second Chance Law offers Indiana residents this opportunity. If you are eligible for criminal record expungement under Indiana Second Chance Law, make sure you take the necessary steps to reclaim your rights as a citizen of Indiana. Start by hiring a qualified criminal defense attorney who is well-versed in criminal record expungement and record sealing in Indiana. They can determine your eligibility and make the best case for your petition.

Are you ready to get started on your petition for criminal record expungement in Indiana? Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our expungement fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

Related Posts:

Difference Between Criminal Pardons and Expungements
How Long Before I Can Expunge My Arrest Record?
How to Begin the Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Process

The Benefits of Having a Clean Criminal Record

Posted on by

Criminal record expungement can be a life-changing event. When your criminal record is expunged, it is as if the criminal offense never happened. The arrest, charge, conviction, and all other information related to the criminal offense will be removed from your criminal record. This means that you can legally state that you have never been arrested or convicted of a crime.

Continue below to learn more benefits of having a cleaner criminal record in Indiana, and most importantly, how to get starting on your Second Chance petition.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Skilled Criminal Expungement Lawyer in Indianapolis.
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Skilled Criminal Expungement Lawyer in Indianapolis.

Why Life is Better With a Clean Criminal History

Employment and Housing — Having a criminal record expunged can help you in many different ways. For starters, it can open up new job opportunities. Employers often use criminal background checks when considering candidates for employment and having an expunged criminal record could make the difference between being hired or passed over. It may also be easier to obtain housing when you have an expunged criminal record. Landlords may be hesitant to rent to someone with a criminal background, but they are more likely to accept applicants who have had their criminal records expunged.

Loan Approval — Need a loan for a car, house, business, or personal endeavor? A clean criminal record can provide potential lenders with peace of mind that the loan recipient is reliable and trustworthy, so having one will give you the best chance of being approved for a loan. Taking the steps necessary to clear an individual’s criminal history gives them better access to important opportunities like obtaining loans that could be essential for furthering their financial success.

Love Life — Having a clean criminal record can be critical to securing romantic dates, as background checks are becoming increasingly commonplace before couples venture out. Everything from a potent DUI to minor misdemeanors can be discovered during background checks, which means it is essential for people to ensure that no damaging information can appear. When potential partners know your background is clean and clear of any undesirable issues, it will not only give them peace of mind but will also make them feel more confident about entering into a relationship with you.

Hire a Criminal Record Expungement Lawyer

The process of criminal record expungement can be complicated and intimidating, so it’s important to get the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer. An Indianapolis criminal record expungement lawyer will be familiar with the laws in your state, as well as any requirements you may need to meet in order to get your criminal record expunged. With their help, you can be confident that all steps are taken properly and that your criminal record is completely wiped clean.

Move On From the Past For Good

Having a clean criminal record can help you in many ways, and criminal record expungement should be considered by anyone with a criminal conviction on their record. An experienced criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis can make sure that the process is completed properly and that you are able to enjoy all of the benefits of having your criminal record expunged.

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!

Related Posts:

What is the Current Status of the Indiana Expungement Law?
Can the Indiana Expungement Law Help Juveniles?
When Should I Apply for Criminal Record Expungement?

What You Need to Know About Indiana’s Second Chance Law

Posted on by

If you have a criminal record in Indiana, you may be wondering if there is anything you can do to get it cleared. The good news is, there is something you can do – and it’s called expungement. Below is everything you need to know about Indiana’s Second Chance Law to get started on the right path.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Certified Criminal Expungement Lawyer in Indianapolis!
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Certified Criminal Expungement Lawyer in Indianapolis!

What is Indiana’s Second Chance Law?

Indiana’s Second Chance Law is a law that is designed to help people who have been convicted of a crime get their life back on track. The law allows people who have been convicted of a crime to petition the court for a pardon. If the pardon is granted, the person is allowed to have their criminal record expunged. This means that the person’s criminal record will be sealed, and it will not be available to the public. This provides the individual with a clean start and allows them to move on with their life without being hindered by past mistakes.

The Second Chance Law in Indiana is designed to help those who want to live an honest and productive life after being convicted of a crime but are having difficulty doing so due to their criminal record. It also helps people find employment and housing opportunities that may have otherwise been denied them due to their criminal history. The Second Chance Law is an important part of the Indiana justice system and provides those who have made mistakes with a second chance at life.

Who is Eligible For Criminal Record Expungement in Indiana?

In Indiana, criminal record expungement is available to a limited number of people. Generally, those who are eligible for expungement are those who have been convicted of a crime but have since had their record cleared or pardoned. In some cases, those with a criminal record may be able to have their record expunged if they can show that they have been rehabilitated.

Specifically, those eligible for expungement may include people who have received pardons or had their cases dismissed; those convicted of misdemeanors who have completed all terms of sentencing and probation; individuals with multiple felonies (three or fewer) who have completed all terms of sentencing and probation; juveniles who have been convicted in adult court but were later found to be not culpable; and individuals who have had charges dismissed or their cases dropped.

In order to apply for expungement in Indiana, the individual must demonstrate that they have been rehabilitated and lead a crime-free life since their criminal conviction. They must also show that they are currently employed or attending school, or they may be able to demonstrate other evidence of rehabilitation.

Additionally, the individual must have completed all terms of their sentence, including fines and restitution orders, in order to be eligible for expungement. Finally, if a person has more than three felony convictions, they are usually not eligible for expungement. The rules can vary between counties and courts, so it is important to speak with an attorney or the court in order to make sure that you meet all eligibility requirements.

What are the Benefits of Indiana’s Second Chance Law?

Expungement can provide many benefits for those who qualify, including clearing up a criminal record and allowing individuals to apply for jobs and housing opportunities without disclosing their past convictions. If you think you may be eligible for expungement in Indiana, it is important to speak with an attorney or the court that issued your conviction.  They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you through the process.

In most cases, Indiana criminal record expungement can provide a fresh start for individuals who have been convicted of a crime. However, expungement is only available in limited circumstances, and it is important to ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements before applying. Once you have received your expungement, make sure to keep a copy of the court order so that you can provide proof if necessary.

By taking advantage of Indiana’s expungement laws and getting your record cleared, you can move forward with your life and get access to more opportunities in the future. 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!

Related Posts:

The 3 Step Approach to Expunging a Criminal Record
Where to Get Juvenile Record Expungement Legal Help in Indiana
Should I Expunge a Criminal Charge That Never Ended With a Conviction?

How to Not Mess Up Your Criminal Record Expungement Petition

Posted on by

Are you preparing to petition for criminal record expungement or record sealing in Indiana? Did you know that just one tiny error in the filing process can cause your application to get denied, forever? Whether a misspelled name or a missed deadline, a rejected expungement petition is the end of the line. Applicants only get once chance to file for criminal record expungement, so don’t mess things up by making some common petitioner mistakes!

Continue reading to learn the most common mistakes made when people file for criminal record expungement, and hopefully avoid making these same mistakes yourself!

Cheap Expungement Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514
Expungement Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

The Importance of Criminal Record Expungement

Criminal records are very disconcerting to live with, especially if they happened a long time ago. Most people make mistakes when they are young, but mistakes that are crimes go on a person’s permanent record. Whether your past criminal history is from a time of adolescence, or a mistake made later in your life, expungement services are a wise choice if you wish to alleviate the stress that goes along with having a public criminal record. Open yourself up to better employment opportunities, residential opportunities, property ownership, and more.

In order to file for criminal record expungement, you must follow a stringent set of steps and guidelines that can take over a year to complete. It involves a heap of complex paperwork that must be filled out in its entirety, as well as, court hearings and appearances, depending on the extent of one’s criminal record. This is why it is strongly encouraged to hire a licensed attorney for professional assistance throughout the process.

The Most Common and Damaging Expungement Mistakes

The first mistake anyone can make when it comes to filing for criminal record expungement is to NOT hire an attorney. Attempting to apply for expungement on your own is a huge set up for disaster. The process is a highly complicated legal back-and-forth that can be highly demanding and defeating. And just ONE little mistake, like a skipped line or misspelled word, can sacrifice a person’s only chance of sealing their criminal records. You can only file once.

Another common mistake people make in the process of filing for criminal record expungement is failing to get a “Certificate of Eligibility” or allowing their certificate to expire. These are documents that claim a person is eligible to apply for expungement. A person MUST have one in order to continue the process of expunging their criminal history. This certificate is only good for one calendar year, and you can only have one issued in your lifetime. If it expires, so does your chance of expungement.

Are you ready to get in touch with a skilled criminal defense attorney who can help you clean up your criminal history in Indiana? Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our expungement fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

You Might Also Like:

Can the Indiana Expungement Law Help Juveniles?
Can a Public Defender Expunge My Criminal Records?
Warning: An Expunged Criminal Record is NOT Destroyed

The 3 Step Approach to Expunging a Criminal Record

Posted on by

Anyone who qualifies for criminal record expungement or sealing should immediately take advantage of Indiana’s Second Chance Law. There are many lobbyist parties against the new expungement laws, putting its sustainability in question. If you want to expunge a criminal record, do not feel confused about the process. The criminal expungement process is actually quite simple, so long as you educate yourself on the best practices and get started on the right track.

Continue below for a 3 step guide to expunging a criminal record in Indiana, plus a bonus tip on who to choose for qualified petitioning assistance.

Criminal Expungement Lawyer Marion County Indiana 317-636-7514
Criminal Expungement Lawyer Marion County Indiana 317-636-7514

How to Expunge a Criminal Record in Indiana

Finish All Sentencing Requirements

In order to be eligible for criminal record expungement, you must meet certain criteria. One of the most important elements of expungement eligibility is satisfying all court orders and sentencing terms. If you still haven’t finished your community service hours or attended a MADD victim impact panel, you must sign up and complete your requirements before you move onto the next step in the 3-step approach to expunging a criminal record in Indiana.

Learn Your Eligibility

Your next step is to verify your eligibility. Eligibility requirements are quite strict and extensive. In fact, determining eligibility for criminal record expungement is so complex, you are not expected to be able to do it yourself. This step requires the assistance of a licensed and experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer who is well-versed in the criminal record expungement laws and procedures.

Not only are the eligibility requirements complicated, but the whole petitioning process is too. Just one single mistake, like a missed deadline or spelling error, can result in a rejection. This is serious because you are only allowed to petition one time. Once you do, you lose your right to do so again. For this reason, it is important to expunge multiple records at once with the help of a legal professional.

Submit a Petition

At this step in the criminal record expungement process, your attorney will submit your petition on a county level according to Indiana Code. This means that your petition will be filed in the same county as the criminal charge. So, if you were arrested in Noblesville, your lawyer will submit your petition in Hamilton County, Indiana.

Are you ready to get started on your petition for criminal record expungement in Indiana? Contact our Indianapolis Indiana criminal record expungement lawyers to learn how to begin your petition, today. Our expungement fees start as low as $850, and we never charge for initial consultations.

Related Posts:

Can a Public Defender Expunge My Criminal Records?
How to Remove a False Arrest From Your Indiana Criminal Record
Does Anyone Get Notified After I Have a Record Expunged?

Do All Jobs Run Background Checks?

Posted on by

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.

Criminal Record Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514
Criminal Record Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

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.

Related Posts:

How to Resolve to Get a Better Job in the New Year
Can a Public Defender Expunge My Criminal Records?
How to Request a Copy of Your Criminal Records in Indiana

Can I Seal My Juvenile Criminal Records?

Posted on by

As kids, we all make mistakes. Some mistakes land juveniles in trouble with the law. Fortunately, with the right qualifications, Indiana’s Second Chance Law may allow you to seal your juvenile arrest and criminal records, even if you were ultimately found guilty of the charge. Continue below to learn how to confirm your eligibility for juvenile criminal record sealing, plus how to get started if you believe you meet the prerequisites for qualification.

Juvenile Record Sealing Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514
Juvenile Record Sealing Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

Juvenile Record Sealing Stipulations

In order to qualify to seal your juvenile criminal records, you must meet certain, state-specified criteria. Criteria will include age, type of offense, time passed since the offense, and adult criminal records. Although such requirements vary among states, they are generally across the board with these before-mentioned factors.

Age and Time Passed Since Your Offense

Here in Indiana, you must be at least 18 years old to petition for juvenile record sealing. This means that juveniles, which are people under the age of 18 years old, cannot petition for record sealing. In addition to your age, eligibility largely depends on the amount of time that has passed since the date of the offense or subsequent charge. Some states allow petitioners to file for record sealing as soon as 30 days after their 18th birthday. Other states require a set time limit, typically 3 to 5 years since the date of the offense.

Type of Crime or Charge

Juveniles can be guilty of all sorts of infractions and offenses. The more serious ones may not qualify for record sealing, such as homicide, sexual assault, murder, and similar egregious federal-level crimes. Lesser offenses, like underage drinking, driving without a license, truancy, drug possession, shoplifting, running away, and similar common teenage wrongdoings, generally qualify for juvenile record sealing.

Adult Criminal Records

Not only must you be an adult, 18 years old or older, to petition for juvenile record sealing, but you must also be an adult with a clear adult criminal record. Perhaps one isolated or minor offense as an adult might not affect your eligibility, but more serious and certainly habitual offenses will cause your petition to be denied.

How to Get Started with Juvenile Record Sealing

To file for juvenile record sealing, you must complete a series of complicated paperwork, which will require you to locate and submit additional, relevant documents, plus pay a fee. And just one mistake on your petition, or a missed filing deadline, will cause your petition to be denied. After that happens, you are no longer eligible to file again. For these reasons and more, it is necessary to hire a licensed criminal defense attorney who specializes in expungement and record sealing services. They will ensure your petition is navigated properly.

Are you ready to get started on your Indiana juvenile record sealing petition? Contact us at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation for criminal record expungement in Indianapolis, and be one step closer to better and brighter future.

You Might Also Enjoy:

What You Can and Cannot Expunge
When Should I Apply for Criminal Record Expungement?
Do Teenagers Have the Right to Expunge Arrest Records in Indiana?