If you’re carrying the burden of a criminal record, it’s important to know there’s a path forward. Expungement, the process of clearing your record, is a powerful tool that can unlock doors that would ordinarily be closed to you.
5 Ways Expunging Your Record Can Improve Your Life
This guide is designed to help you understand how expungement can drastically improve your life. You’ll learn the main benefits, getting an idea of what lies ahead after your record is expunged.
The guide covers the following:
- Employment opportunities
- Housing prospects
- Professional licensing
- Educational opportunities
- Personal relationships
Here’s a closer look at each.
Employment Opportunities
When you’ve got a criminal record hanging over you, landing a job can be tough. This is especially true in competitive markets where employers have the luxury of picking and choosing between candidates. After an expungement, your criminal record will no longer show up in background checks done by most employers. That means you can walk into an interview knowing that you’re being evaluated based on your skills and qualifications, not your past. Plus, you won’t have to explain away old charges, which can be a relief.
Related: Can you expunge an arson conviction in Indiana?
Housing Prospects
In today’s housing market, landlords and property managers are often meticulous about who they rent to. One of their biggest concerns? Whether a potential tenant has a criminal record. If you’ve had trouble securing housing because of your record, expungement can make a big difference. When your record is cleared, you can confidently put in rental applications without worrying that your past will be held against you. It also opens up the possibility of living in areas or buildings that were previously out of reach.
Professional Licensing
Certain careers – think nursing, real estate, or cosmetology, to name a few – require professional licenses issued by state or local agencies. Unfortunately, a criminal record can stand in the way of getting these licenses. But after expungement, the path to licensure is clearer. With a clean record, you can pursue your professional aspirations more freely, without the fear of being denied a license because of past mistakes.
Related: Indiana expungement FAQ
Educational Opportunities
Higher education can be a powerful tool for personal and professional growth. But a criminal record can hinder your chances of getting into the college or university of your choice, as many institutions consider applicants’ criminal history in their admissions process. After expungement, you won’t have to worry about your record being a roadblock to your educational goals. Whether you’re applying for undergraduate programs, graduate school, or even some scholarships, a clear record can make a big difference.
Personal Relationships
A criminal record doesn’t just affect your professional life; it can also impact your personal relationships. From strained family ties to difficulties in making new connections, the stigma of a criminal record can be hard to shake. After expungement, you may find it easier to rebuild damaged relationships and form new ones. Plus, knowing your past is truly behind you can give you a confidence boost that helps in all areas of life.
Related: Common myths about expunging a criminal record in Indiana
FAQ About Expunging Your Record
Here are some frequently asked questions about expunging your record. If you don’t see the answers you’re looking for here, please call our office. We’re here to help.
Q: How long does the expungement process take?
A: The process varies from case to case, but typically it takes several months.
Q: Will my expunged record show up on a background check?
A: After successful expungement, your record should not appear on most background checks.
Q: Can all crimes be expunged?
A: Not all crimes can be expunged. It generally depends on the nature of the crime and the laws in your specific state.
Q: Can I handle the expungement process myself?
A: While it’s possible, navigating the legal system can be complex. Working with an attorney ensures you don’t miss any critical steps.
Related: How to get your criminal record expunged in Indiana
Q: How much does expungement cost?
A: Costs vary depending on the complexity of your case and the attorney you hire. Call our office now to find out how much it may cost you.
Navigating life with a criminal record can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be a life sentence. Expungement offers a chance to rewrite your story, giving you the freedom to pursue opportunities that may have seemed out of reach. Remember, working with an experienced expungement attorney in Indianapolis can be beneficial, though it doesn’t guarantee outcomes.
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.
