4 Reasons You Should Consider Expunging Your Criminal Record in Indiana

If you’ve ever wondered what life would be like without a criminal record hanging over your head, you’re in the right place. You may be able to clear your criminal record through a process called expungement in the state of Indiana, and it may give you the fresh start you deserve.

Many people consider expunging their criminal record because they know they can enjoy:

Increased employment opportunities
Increased housing options
Positive social benefits
Peace of mind

Here’s a closer look at each.

Increased Employment Opportunities After Expungement

Living with a criminal record can present significant barriers to employment. Many employers require background checks as part of the hiring process, and seeing a criminal record may lead them to believe that you’re a liability. They may even choose another candidate instead. However, when your criminal record is expunged, employers can’t hold it against you. Although it’s not a guarantee that you’ll get a job, because you’ll still need to meet all the employment qualifications and be up against other candidates who may be more qualified than you are, having your record expunged may help you find employment.

Increased Housing Options

Many landlords conduct criminal background checks along with credit checks and rental history checks. If you have a criminal background, landlords may think that you’re a risk to their other tenants or to their property, and they may worry that you’ll cause them problems. If you expunge your record, these landlords can’t hold it against you in making a rental decision. That may make it easier for you to find your next place to live.

Positive Social Benefits

There’s no denying that there’s a social stigma associated with having a criminal record, even if it’s far in your past. No matter how long ago you were arrested or convicted of a crime, having a criminal record hanging over your head can really hold you back. People may judge you based on your past rather than who you are now, but when your record is expunged, most people will never know it existed. Even if your criminal record still appears in background checks, it will be marked as expunged, and people can’t legally hold it against you in making decisions related to employment and other important situations.

Peace of Mind

Many people who have criminal records express a fear that people will hold their past against them. But when your record is expunged, you get a fresh start.

FAQ on Criminal Record Expungements

Check out these frequently asked questions about criminal record expungements and how they can impact your life. If you don’t see the answers you’re looking for here, give us a call. We’ll be happy to answer them over the phone.

What crimes are eligible for expungement?

In the state of Indiana, many crimes are eligible for expungement. However, some offenses must remain on your criminal record forever. Indiana law allows for the expungement of most misdemeanors and a significant number of felonies. The best way to determine whether your record is eligible for expungement is to get in touch with a criminal record expungement attorney in Indiana who understands the process and the law as it applies to you. An experienced attorney can guide you through the specifics of your case.

How long do I have to wait to apply for expungement?

Indiana requires people to wait a certain amount of time before petitioning the courts for criminal record expungement. The waiting period depends on the nature of the crime. In some cases, you must wait for five, eight or even 10 years period. However, every situation is different, and you should speak to an attorney to find out how long you’ll have to wait.

Do I need an attorney for expungement?

Many people choose to work with an attorney for criminal record expungement because the process is very complicated. It requires you to file certain paperwork in certain locations, and you must meet specific deadlines. You must also include all supporting documentation with your petition or risk rejection. A lawyer can help you throughout the entire process, including filling out and filing your paperwork and representing you if you need to appear in court.

What happens after my record is expunged?

After your record is expunged, it may be erased or marked as expunged. When a record is marked as expunged, people can’t hold it against you for important decisions, such as hiring, licensure or rental.

Do You Need to Talk to an Indiana Expungement and Sealing Attorney?

If you’re ready for a fresh start, we may be able to help. Call us at 317-647-5476 or fill out the form below for a free consultation on expungement. We’re here to answer your questions and get you the fresh start you deserve.