Understanding Juvenile Criminal Records in Indiana and Their Impact

Posted on December 13, 2024 by admin

Having a juvenile criminal record in Indiana can feel like an overwhelming burden, especially when it comes to building a promising future. For parents of young offenders, or young adults navigating their own experiences, the unknowns surrounding how a record might affect their education, career, and societal standing often generate stress and uncertainty. The good news? Resources and legal options, such as the expungement process, can help alleviate these concerns.

This comprehensive guide explores the impact of juvenile criminal records on future opportunities, provides an understanding of relevant laws in Indiana, and offers actionable advice for pursuing a fresh start through expungement.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Juvenile Expungement Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana

What is a Juvenile Criminal Record in Indiana?

Before we examine the effects of having a juvenile record, it’s important to understand what constitutes a juvenile criminal record in Indiana.

Juvenile offenses are generally acts committed by individuals under the age of 18 that violate state or federal laws. Indiana operates within a juvenile justice system designed not just to punish, but to rehabilitate, under the assumption that young offenders have a greater capacity for change.

However, even in a system aimed at rehabilitation, a formal record of offenses can still be created. This record often includes arrests, charges, adjudications (convictions in the juvenile system), and any court-mandated penalties.

Are Juvenile Records Public in Indiana?

Indiana laws ensure that juvenile criminal records are not fully accessible to the public. However, they can still be reviewed by law enforcement agencies, school officials, licensing entities, and, in some cases, potential employers. This restricted access offers some confidentiality but does not completely shield individuals from its effects.

How Juvenile Records Impact Education and Employment

One of the biggest concerns for parents and young adults alike is how a juvenile record might hinder future opportunities. Unfortunately, even with restricted access in Indiana, these records can leave lasting impressions.

Impact on Higher Education

Many colleges and universities inquire about criminal records during their admissions process. While having a juvenile record doesn’t automatically bar someone from attending college, it may complicate applications, especially when applying to schools with strict policies regarding student conduct.

Additionally, competitive scholarships and internships often conduct background checks, and a record could impact eligibility.

Barriers to Employment

When it comes to landing a good job, background checks can be a major hurdle. Although employers in Indiana are restricted from seeing certain juvenile records, jobs requiring licensing (e.g., healthcare or law enforcement) and positions involving minors often demand full disclosure.

Research shows that individuals with a criminal record face an unemployment rate nearly five times higher than those without one. While juvenile records may not have as severe an impact as adult records, they can still create significant barriers to employment in certain industries.

License Applications and Community Perception

Licenses for professions like nursing, teaching, or real estate often require a review of one’s criminal history. Additionally, the lingering stigma of having a juvenile record can affect how individuals and their families are perceived socially and within their communities.

The Process of Expungement in Indiana

For those disheartened by the lasting consequences of having a juvenile record, there is hope—Indiana law offers an expungement process to remove eligible juvenile offenses from one’s record.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the expungement process in Indiana and what you can expect along the way.

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Not all juvenile offenses are eligible for expungement. Typically, Indiana allows for the expungement of non-violent offenses, while more serious crimes like murder may be exempt. To determine eligibility, consult an attorney or legal expert familiar with Indiana’s expungement laws.

Step 2: File a Petition

Eligible individuals must file a formal petition with the juvenile court where the offense occurred. This petition involves paperwork detailing the offense(s), the request for expungement, and any evidence that supports rehabilitation or good character.

Step 3: Prepare for the Hearing

The court may schedule a hearing to review your petition. During this hearing, the petitioner may need to provide evidence supporting the claim that the expungement is in the interest of justice. Examples might include proof of academic improvement, testimony from character witnesses, or successful completion of community service.

Step 4: Granting of Expungement

If the court approves the request, the juvenile record is sealed. This record will no longer be accessible by most entities and will not appear on background checks for employment or education.

Step 5: Moving Forward

Once the expungement is successful, the individual can legally state that they have no criminal record in situations like job applications or college admissions.

Advice for Parents and Young Adults

Navigating the complexities of life post-juvenile conviction can be intimidating. However, with the right strategies and mindset, it’s possible to minimize its impact and move toward a brighter future.

For Parents:

Educate Yourself: Familiarize yourself with Indiana’s juvenile justice system and expungement process. Understanding the legal pathways available can empower you to help your child.
Support Emotional Growth: Reassure your child that a juvenile record does not define their worth or potential. Emotional support can make all the difference in their confidence to rebuild and achieve their goals.
Advocate for Their Success: Encourage them to pursue community involvement, tutoring, or part-time work that demonstrates accountability and growth.

For Young Adults:

Own Your Story: Don’t shy away from addressing your mistakes. Instead, frame them as learning experiences and show how you’ve grown as a result.
Build Your Skills: Focus on developing your talents and adding valuable skills to your repertoire to compensate for gaps in education or employment caused by the criminal record.
Stay Out of Trouble: Further legal troubles can derail progress and make expungement more difficult. Keep a clean record moving forward.

In Summary

A juvenile criminal record in Indiana may present challenges, but it doesn’t have to dictate the rest of your life. With the right mindset, support, and understanding of the expungement process, it’s possible to wipe the slate clean and take meaningful steps toward new opportunities.

Taking control of your future starts with action. If you or a loved one is eligible for expungement, consider reaching out to an experienced legal professional to guide you through the steps. By pursuing expungement, you can create a fresh canvas to fill with new dreams, achievements, and promise.

Don’t let the past define your future—take control and seize the opportunity to expunge your record 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.

Where to Get Juvenile Record Expungement Legal Help in Indiana

Posted on September 30, 2022 by admin

Minor arrests and misdemeanors can now be sealed from public access in Indiana, so long as you have a licensed criminal attorney by your side. Continue below to learn where to find reputable criminal record expungement legal help for juvenile records in Indiana, plus how to get started in your petition this month.

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Expungement For Juvenile Criminal Records in Indiana

Expunge Criminal Record Indiana provides exceptional legal counsel for families and individuals all across Indiana. Not only are we highly accomplished and respected personal injury attorneys, but we are also extensively well-versed and proficient in the new criminal record expungement laws. We offer our services for individuals who wish to seal our criminal records from when we were just a minor!

If you were arrested or convicted of a crime as a juvenile, you may be eligible for criminal record expungement. Not all will qualify, and there are several stipulations regarding eligibility and approval, which is why you need a licensed attorney to facilitate the application process for you, flawlessly!

Here are Central Indiana cities we provide juvenile criminal expungement legal assistance for:

▣ Avon
▣ Carmel
▣ Columbus
▣ Fishers
▣ Franklin
▣ Greenwood
▣ Indianapolis
▣ Noblesville
▣ Martinsville
▣ Mooresville
▣ Westfield
▣ Zionsville

Request a Free Consultation to Learn Your Eligibility

We offer free initial consultations to assess your case and determine if you are eligible to expunge criminal records in Indiana. This means there is no obligation to pay for your first meeting with our licensed attorneys!

Are you ready to get started on learning your eligibility and starting point for juvenile criminal expungement? Contact us at 317-636-7514 for criminal record expungement services for minors and juveniles in Indianapolis, Indiana today.

Can I Seal My Juvenile Criminal Records?

Posted on June 22, 2022 by admin

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.

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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 18^th 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.

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What Indiana is Doing to Prevent Juveniles From Entering the Criminal System

Posted on May 13, 2022 by admin

All good-minded Hoosiers can agree that we should be doing whatever it takes to keep kids out of the criminal justice court system. But how does Indiana help parents and legal custodians achieve this goal? From categorical offenses to record expungement, Indiana has many resources and programs to offer for children who have and have not been arrested.

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Convictions Have Future Consequences for Juveniles

When a juvenile is arrested, charged, and ultimately convicted, their life is forever changed. There are many lasting and ongoing consequences to having a juvenile criminal record, and they are not anything we would wish for a child. Here in Indiana, a juvenile is a minor under the age of 18 years old. Sometimes, juveniles commit crimes so serious, they are tried in adult court. This is mostly typical among 16 and 17 year old defendants, but the court system has tried children as young as 12 years old in recent history.

Criminal records impact a defendant’s opportunity for education, employment, housing, financial assistance, and professional licensing. In worst scenarios, juvenile arrests and convictions pave the pathway for minors to grow into habitual or career criminals, spending most of their life in and out of the system. So, needless to say, it is in our best interest as a society to keep kids out of the criminal system using what resources and powers available to us. But what can we do? What can Indiana do?

Indiana Charges Kids With Delinquent or Status Offenses

There are two types of charges Indiana imposes on juvenile defendants. Status offenses are crimes that can only be committed by minors, such as underage drinking, underage smoking, truancy, curfew violations, and running away from home. Most of these offenses are dealt with using alternatives to arrest.

Delinquent offenses are crimes that can also be committed by adults, such as vandalism, voyeurism, theft, shoplifting, unlicensed driving, assault, and battery. These are clearly more serious than status offenses, and therefore, commonly land juveniles in adult court rather than juvenile court.

Protecting Juveniles From a Melancholy Future

After juveniles see a judge for their charges, they can be sentenced to a wide scope of penalties, which typically include fines and probation, but may also include community service, restitution, mental health counseling, educational programs, drug/alcohol treatment, and in worse cases, time spent in juvenile detention. In fact, many of these court orders are sentenced in place of juvenile detention or even a conviction altogether.

Indiana wants to keep kids out of the criminal system, which is why there are so many alternatives to arrest and criminal conviction. Fortunately, juveniles who are convicted of a crime may qualify later on for criminal record expungement or record sealing.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer ASAP

Not only do you want to protect your children’s current quality of life, but you also want to ensure their future rights and freedoms are secured as well. Do this by hiring a skilled Indiana criminal defense attorney who can fight your kid’s charges, reducing or dismissing them altogether.

Choose a lawyer who also specializes in criminal record expungement. They can set you up with details on how to expunge or seal your juvenile’s records so that their future is not impacted by any criminal charges from their past. The same goes for you, now. If you have a juvenile criminal history holding you back, contact a licensed expungement lawyer to see if you qualify now that you are an adult.

Are you ready to clear up your juvenile criminal record in Indiana? 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.

What To Do if You Have a Juvenile Criminal Record in Indiana

Posted on October 5, 2021 by admin

Are you an adult with a juvenile criminal record in Indiana? If so, this blog is for you. Continue reading to learn your options for concealing or removing juvenile arrest records and criminal convictions from your criminal history as a minor, including how to get started on a criminal record expungement petition as soon as today.

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Criminal Record Expungement in Indiana

A few years back, Indiana passed a new law, referred to as Indiana’s Second Chance Law, that allows qualified applicants to seal or expunge, which basically means to remove or clean up, eligible criminal records. Both convictions and non-convictions, including arrests, may be eligible for criminal record expungement. However, not all petitioners will qualify in Indiana.

Furthermore, an applicant only gets one chance to petition for criminal record expungement in Indiana; and just one mistake, such as a missed deadline or spelling error, can have an applicant’s opportunity revoked forever. For this reason, it is strongly encouraged, and, practice, to hire an Indiana criminal defense lawyer who specializes in expungement services. A criminal defense expungement lawyer can navigate all elements of your criminal record expungement petition, ensuring that all paperwork and documentation are carefully crafted, reviewed, and submitted on time.

Juvenile Records Can Be Cleaned Up

As an adult, you may have run into certain challenges and setbacks as a result of your juvenile criminal record. If this is true in your case, the new Indiana Second Chance Law is exactly what you need for a brighter more opportunistic future. Many juvenile arrest records qualify for criminal record expungement and record sealing, but others may not.

Some criminal convictions and charges do not qualify at all, including murder, kidnapping, sexual assault, and similar egregious and violent offenses. Talk to an Indianapolis IN criminal expungement lawyer to learn your eligibility for cleaning up your juvenile criminal record in Indiana. In fact, this is your very first step in the juvenile criminal record expungement process.

What You Need to Know Right Now

Indiana’s Second Chance Law is not a popular one, and there are many lobbyist groups and parties who are actively trying to revoke the law every single day. It is possible that this criminal record expungement law is not around for much longer. For this reason, it is important to take advantage of it right now, before your opportunity passes you by forever.

Are you ready to get in touch with a skilled criminal defense attorney who can help you clean up your juvenile 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.

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

Can Juveniles Tried as Adults Have their Criminal Record Expunged?

Posted on November 13, 2015 by admin

There are new Indiana laws that pertain to sealing or expunging criminal records for those who qualify, but there are several stipulations and complex procedures that influence a person’s right to expungement. For most misdemeanors, it is a required 5 year waiting period, from the date of the arrest, in order to meet the time-elapse qualifications. But there are many more, involving prior convictions, habitual offenders, serious felony crimes, and more. It is vitally important to talk to a licensed criminal attorney that is well-versed in the new Indiana record expungement laws in order to fully understand what it takes to
qualify and move forward with the process.

Many parents, or young adults, have questions about juvenile arrests and expungement. Mainly, people want to know if a juvenile record can be expunged, and if so, how to get started. But another common question has to do with minors that were arrested and tried as adults. Can these juvenile records still be expunged even though they were charged and convicted as an adult? And if so, how can a juvenile, or person with a juvenile record, qualify for criminal record expungement? Continue reading to learn the answers to these questions and more.

Juvenile Criminal Records

When a kid under the age of 18 years old is arrested for a crime, they are generally charged as a minor. But if they are over the age of 14 and the crime they committed was a serious felony, the courts and state may decide to try them as an adult. In these cases, the crimes are pretty serious or extensive. Courts do this to not only set an example, but to also make a point to service the right amount of justice where deserved.

In terms of expungement, a juvenile must wait a certain number of years, without committing any other crimes in between, before they can even qualify at all. Once this time limit is up, generally between 5 and 8 years, they can begin to inquire about further eligibility. What we mean is, some crimes are never eligible for expungement, including murder, sex crimes, arson, human trafficking, and more. But is a juvenile was convicted of a lesser crime, such as a misdemeanor or Level 6 felony, there is possibility for expungement. Depending on their past criminal history, this eligibility may change. Whether a juvenile was tried as an adult or not, there may be a chance for qualification. Each individual case is different, which is why it is important to consult a licensed criminal lawyer for accurate evaluation and information.

The Law Office of David E. Lewis

Call 317-636-7514 for information about juvenile criminal record expungement in Indiana. We are well-versed in the new Indiana laws pertaining to the processes, procedures, rules, eligibility, and more. We can provide secure assistance to seal or expunge criminal records and arrest records. Our services start as low as $850 and he offers free case evaluations. Call 317-636-7514 to determine your eligibility for criminal record expungement in Indiana, today.