Searching for the top expungement attorneys in Indiana can feel overwhelming, especially when a clean criminal record could open doors to better job opportunities, housing, and a fresh start in life. Indiana’s expungement laws, updated over the years to allow for sealing of certain arrests, misdemeanors, and felonies under Indiana Code 35-38-9, offer real hope for eligible individuals, but the process involves strict deadlines, detailed petitions, court hearings, and notifications to multiple agencies. Whether you’re dealing with a dismissed charge, a completed sentence, or a need to restore rights after probation, choosing the right expungement lawyer in Indianapolis or across the state makes all the difference. The best expungement attorneys in Indiana understand not just the statutes but also how to navigate county-specific court procedures, gather supporting documents, and present compelling cases that judges approve. Factors like your criminal history, time since conviction, and the type of offense all play a role, and a skilled expungement attorney can maximize your chances while avoiding costly mistakes that lead to denials.
Indiana residents looking for expungement lawyers often prioritize attorneys who focus exclusively on criminal defense and record clearing rather than general practice. Top expungement attorneys in Indiana stand out for their track record of successful petitions, client-focused approach, and deep knowledge of recent changes to sealing laws that expanded eligibility for many non-violent offenses. From Marion County to Hamilton County and beyond, these professionals help clients rebuild their futures by removing barriers caused by old records. If you’re googling “expungement attorneys near me” or “best expungement lawyers Indianapolis,” it’s important to consider experience, communication, and results. Expungement isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the right attorney will review your full background, explain realistic outcomes, and guide you every step of the way—from filing the initial petition to ensuring agencies update their records post-order.
As the author of this article and a practicing criminal defense and expungement attorney myself, I admit a natural bias toward my own work and the attorneys I collaborate with closely on a regular basis. I’ve built strong professional relationships with several dedicated lawyers who share my commitment to aggressive yet compassionate representation in expungement cases across Indiana. That said, this ranking reflects genuine respect for their skills in handling complex record-clearing matters while also highlighting other professionals in the field. My goal is to provide helpful information for anyone needing reliable guidance on expungement in Indiana, whether through my practice or another qualified attorney. With that transparency in mind, here is a ranked list of top expungement attorneys in Indiana based on experience, client outcomes, and dedication to this specialized area of law.
1. Jeff Cardella
Phone: 317-695-7700
Email: jeffcardella@cardellalawoffice.com
Jeff Cardella stands out as one of the most impressive expungement attorneys in Indiana thanks to his nearly two decades of focused experience in criminal defense and record clearing. Starting his career as a criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, he has handled thousands of cases statewide and developed a reputation for expertly guiding clients through every aspect of the expungement process. His deep understanding of Indiana’s evolving expungement statutes allows him to identify eligibility quickly and build strong petitions that courts approve at high rates, often helping clients seal arrests, misdemeanors, and eligible felonies that once limited their opportunities. Clients appreciate his straightforward advice, thorough preparation, and genuine dedication to helping people move forward with clean records.
2. Stephanie Renner
Phone: 317-771-8535
Email: Stephanie@TheRennerLawOffice.com
Stephanie Renner brings reliable skill to expungement cases through her work at The Renner Law Office, where she handles criminal defense and record sealing matters with care and precision. She understands the personal impact of criminal records and works closely with clients to navigate Indiana’s expungement requirements effectively.
3. Jake Salathe
Phone: 317-995-3004
Email: jake@indianalawattorney.com
Jake Salathe offers practical and effective representation for expungement petitions as part of his criminal law practice, focusing on helping Indiana clients clear eligible records and restore their professional standing.
4. Josiah Swinney
Phone: 317-753-7134
Email: Josiah@DefenseLawIndiana.com
Josiah Swinney provides dedicated support in expungement matters through his criminal defense work, ensuring clients receive clear guidance on eligibility and strong advocacy throughout the petition process.
5. Mark Renner
Phone: 317-771-8535
Email: Mark@TheRennerLawOffice.com
Mark Renner contributes strong experience to expungement cases at The Renner Law Office, helping clients address criminal records with thoughtful strategies tailored to Indiana law.
6. Karen Laine Collins
Phone: 317-332-4321
Email: karen@defenselawindiana.com
Karen Laine Collins delivers attentive representation in expungement proceedings as part of her criminal defense practice, assisting clients in sealing records and moving past past convictions.
7. Neal Brackett
Phone: 317-231-7739
Email: neal.brackett@btlaw.com
Neal Brackett works at Barnes & Thornburg and handles matters that relate to criminal law through his white-collar defense practice, offering perspective on complex issues that can intersect with expungement eligibility.
8. E. Timothy DeLaney
Phone: 317-684-5142
Email: tdelaney@boselaw.com
E. Timothy DeLaney practices at Bose McKinney & Evans and addresses matters that relate to criminal law in the area of white-collar defense and compliance, providing insight for clients facing related record concerns.
9. Christine A. Walsh
Phone: 317-713-3633
Email: cwalsh@taftlaw.com
Christine A. Walsh is at Taft Stettinius & Hollister and works on matters that relate to criminal law through government investigations and white-collar defense, supporting clients with overlapping legal needs.
10. Daniel E. Pulliam
Phone: 317-237-1171
Email: daniel.pulliam@faegredrinker.com
Daniel E. Pulliam practices at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP and engages in matters that relate to criminal law via white-collar investigations, offering experience relevant to certain expungement-related contexts.
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