How a Criminal Record Affects Your Voting Rights

Understanding how a criminal record can impact your life — especially your voting rights — is crucial. This guide will explore the effects of a criminal record on voting rights in Indiana and how expungement can offer a fresh start. We’ll delve into the specifics of expungement in Indiana, differentiating it from sealing records, and provide insights into how this legal process can help you regain your voting rights and move forward.

How a Criminal Record Affects Your Voting Rights and How Expungement Can Help

In this guide, you’ll find detailed information on:

The Impact of a Criminal Record on Voting Rights
Understanding Expungement in Indiana
The Expungement Process and Eligibility
How Expungement Can Restore Voting Rights
Life After Expungement: What to Expect

Here’s a closer look at each.

The Impact of a Criminal Record on Voting Rights

Having a criminal case in Indiana can significantly affect your voting rights. Depending on the nature of your case, you might face temporary or long-term restrictions on your ability to vote. It’s important to understand these limitations, as they directly impact your civic engagement and representation. To be clear, you’re allowed to vote if you’re not behind bars. That means if you’ve completed a sentence of incarceration, even if you’re on probation or parole, you can vote.

Note: If you’re in jail awaiting trial, which means you haven’t been convicted of a crime, you can still vote.

However, after you’re released, you’ll need to ensure your voter registration is active.

Understanding Expungement in Indiana

Expungement in Indiana refers to the legal process of having your criminal record erased or sealed. It’s different from simply sealing a record, as expungement can lead to the removal of the conviction from your record entirely. Knowing the nuances of this process is key to determining your eligibility and the potential benefits.

The Expungement Process and Eligibility

Navigating the expungement process in Indiana requires a clear understanding of the steps involved and the criteria for eligibility. This section will guide you through the process, helping you understand what to expect and how to prepare for each stage.

How Expungement Can Restore Voting Rights

Expungement can be a powerful tool in restoring your rights. By erasing or sealing your criminal record, you may regain some of your other rights — but you will be allowed to vote after you complete your jail or prison sentence, or when you’re on probation or parole.

Life After Expungement: What to Expect

Once your record has been expunged, it’s important to know what changes and what remains the same. This section will provide insights into life after expungement, including how it affects your voting rights, employment opportunities, and overall social standing.

FAQ About How a Criminal Record Affects Your Voting Rights

Check out these commonly asked questions about how a criminal record affects your voting rights and how expungement can help. If you don’t see the answers here, please call our office and we’ll provide the information you need.

Can I Vote While My Expungement Is Being Processed?

If your voting rights are currently suspended due to a criminal proceeding, they will remain so until you’re on parole, probation, or have fully completed your sentence. The processing time can vary, so it’s important to begin as soon as you’re eligible.

How Long Does the Expungement Process Take in Indiana?

The duration of the expungement process in Indiana can vary. It generally takes several months, but the exact timeline depends on the complexity of your case and the workload of the courts.

What Types of Convictions Are Eligible for Expungement in Indiana?

Not all convictions are eligible for expungement in Indiana. Generally, non-violent offenses and certain misdemeanors and felonies can be expunged, but there are specific criteria that must be met.

Can I Apply for Expungement More Than Once?

Indiana law typically allows one opportunity for expungement. It’s crucial to ensure that your application is complete and accurate, as a denied request may not be reconsidered.

Navigating the path toward expungement and the restoration of your voting rights can be a transformative journey. This guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to take the first steps toward a fresh start. Remember, a criminal record doesn’t have to be a life sentence of limited rights and opportunities. Expungement offers a legal remedy to turn over a new leaf and fully participate in your community once again.

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.