Expungement of your criminal record under the Indiana Second Chance Expungement Law has become much easier in recent years. If you are interested in speaking to an Indianapolis Expungement lawyer about having your criminal record expunged under the Indiana Expungement Law, for a criminal felony, criminal misdemeanor, or DCS case, please contact me at 317-695-7700 for a free consultation with an Indiana expungement attorney or email me at jeffcardella@cardellalawoffice.com If you are emailing me, make sure to include your date of birth and spelling of your name as it appears on mycase.in.gov
We offer a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE on ALL expungements. For the majority of expungements, no court appearance or office visit is necessary and we offer affordable prices.
I have practiced criminal defense my entire career, teach criminal law at the IU School of Law, and have personally handled thousands of cases. I practice in the entire State of Indiana, including Marion County, Hamilton County, Hendricks County, Boone County, Monroe County, Indianapolis, Bloomington, Noblesville, Carmel, Fishers, Danville, and Plainfield. If you have additional questions about the Indiana Expungement Law, please do not hesitate to contact me for a free consultation at 317-695-7700 or visit our home page.
- Provide Accurate and Complete Information: Make sure to include all relevant details about your case, such as the case number, dates of arrest and conviction, and the specific charges you were convicted of. Double-check all information for accuracy before submitting the petition.
- Clearly State the Reasons for Seeking Expungement: Explain why you are seeking expungement and how it will benefit you. This may include reasons such as improving your employment opportunities, housing options, or overall quality of life.
- Include Supporting Documentation: Attach any supporting documentation that may strengthen your case, such as letters of recommendation, proof of rehabilitation, or evidence of community service. These documents can help demonstrate your commitment to rehabilitation and your positive contributions to the community.
- Comply with requirements: Make sure the petition complies with the Indiana statutes and Indiana Rules of Civil Procedure.
- Deliver a Copy of the Petition to the Prosecutor’s Office: You can typically serve the petition by delivering a copy to the prosecutor’s office in person or by certified mail. Check with the court for specific instructions on how to serve the petition. If possible, use electronic service.
- Provide Proof of Service to the Court: After serving the petition, you will need to provide proof of service to the court. This may involve completing a certificate of service or an affidavit of service, which confirms that you have served the petition to the prosecutor’s office.
In some cases, the court may schedule a hearing to review your petition. During the hearing, you may need to present evidence and answer questions about your case. It’s important to be prepared and to present yourself professionally. Here are some tips for attending the hearing:
- Familiarize yourself with the Indiana Rules of Evidence: If your documents are not certified, review the Indiana Rules of Evidence to ensure that proper foundations can be laid to admit documents.
- Review Your Petition and Supporting Documentation: Before the hearing, review your petition and any supporting documentation to ensure that you are familiar with the details of your case. Be prepared to explain why you are seeking expungement and how you have rehabilitated since your conviction.
- Dress Appropriately: Dress in a professional manner for the hearing. This shows respect for the court and can help make a positive impression.
- Arrive on Time: Make sure to arrive on time for the hearing. Being punctual demonstrates
- Prepare Your Statement: Think about what you want to say during the hearing. Practice explaining why you are seeking expungement and how you have changed since your conviction. Be honest and sincere in your statements.
- Bring Supporting Documents: Bring copies of any supporting documents you included with your petition, such as letters of recommendation, proof of rehabilitation, or evidence of community service. These documents can help support your case during the hearing.
- Be Respectful: Show respect to the judge, prosecutor, and court staff. Address the judge as “Your Honor” and follow courtroom etiquette. Being respectful can positively influence the court’s perception of you.