Monroe County & Bloomington, Indiana
Expungement Attorney & Criminal Defense Lawyer
Jeff Cardella 317-695-7700
Call me for a free consultation at 317-695-7700. My office has been recognized as one of the Ten Best Law Firms in the State of Indiana by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, I was selected as one of the Top 100 Attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers Association, my office has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Law Firms in the State of Indiana by the American Association of Attorney Advocates, and I have been recognized as one of the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in the State under the age of forty by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. I have been a criminal attorney in Indiana for my entire legal career, have almost two decades of experience, have personally handled thousands of cases, and taught criminal law at the IU School of Law. I provide a money back guarantee on ALL Expungements. Additional information about me and my office is available on the home page and the in the news page.
This page contains very basic introductory information about the Indiana Expungement Law, also known as the Indiana Second Chance Law. If you are looking for a more through and detailed explanation of the Indiana Expungement Law, click here. Alternatively, if you have an open criminal case and are interested in discussing your case with a Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana criminal defense attorney, click here. For a free consultation with an Indiana expungement attorney call 317-695-7700.
Indiana Expungement Law Basics
While the expungement law does contain certain exceptions, these general rules apply:
• Expungement of Dismissed cases – can be expunged in 1 year (newer cases are automatically expunged)
• Expungement of Misdemeanor convictions – can be expunged in 5 years
• Expungement of AMS convictions – can be expunged in 5 years
• Expungement of Level 6 felony convictions – can be expunged in 8 years
• Expungement of D Felony convictions – can be expunged in 8 years
• Expungement of Major felony convictions – Some (but not all) major felony convictions can be expunged in 8 years
It is important to remember that normally, you only receive one expungement per lifetime (although this does not apply to cases that have been dismissed). It is generally not a good idea to do your own expungement as it can end badly. (If you are going on to the internet and doing google searches about expungement, then it may not be a good idea to serve as your own attorney). Lastly, in some situations, the waiting period to have your record expunged can be shortened through a process called “early expungement.” If you have questions about a legal matter in Monroe County, Bloomington, Ellettsville or Stinesville, Indiana, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Monroe County Indiana Circuit Courts
Monroe County, Indiana has 9 Circuit Courts. The Circuit Courts are located near the Bloomington town square at 301 North College Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47404. The Courthouse is open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday, but is closed on all government holidays. The phone number for the Court House is 812-349-2614.
Monroe County Criminal Court System
The criminal court system in Monroe County, Indiana, operates as a critical component of the state’s judicial framework, designed to ensure justice, public safety, and fairness in legal proceedings. Centered in Bloomington, the Monroe County Circuit Court is a unified court system with nine divisions, handling everything from minor traffic violations to serious felony cases. This court system is integral to addressing criminal matters, civil disputes, and family law cases, making it a cornerstone of the community’s legal infrastructure. For individuals facing criminal charges, understanding how this system functions can be essential to navigating the legal process effectively.
Cases in Monroe County begin with an arrest or citation, often followed by an initial hearing where charges are formally presented. The Monroe County Prosecutor’s Office plays a pivotal role, reviewing law enforcement reports to determine whether to file charges. Prosecutors aim to balance public safety with fairness, ensuring that only appropriate cases move forward. For minor offenses, the Pretrial Diversion Program may be offered, allowing defendants to avoid a conviction by completing specific requirements, such as community service or educational programs. This program reflects the county’s commitment to rehabilitation over punishment for first-time or low-level offenders.
Once a case is filed, it proceeds through the Monroe Circuit Court, where judges oversee hearings, trials, and sentencing. The court’s structure allows for specialized handling of cases, including a Mental Health Court for defendants with chronic mental health issues. This problem-solving court focuses on treatment and reducing recidivism, requiring participants to engage in supervised rehabilitation programs. Successful completion can lead to dismissed charges, offering a path to stability for eligible individuals. The court also employs probation officers who conduct presentence investigations, providing detailed reports to guide judicial decisions. These reports assess the defendant’s background, the impact on victims, and the risk to the community, ensuring informed sentencing.
For those convicted, sentencing options in Monroe County include jail time at the Monroe County Correctional Center, probation, or community corrections programs. The Community Corrections Program, a division of the Probation Department, offers alternatives like home detention, day reporting, and work release. These programs aim to reintegrate offenders into the community while maintaining accountability through electronic monitoring or regular check-ins. Probation officers, trained in evidence-based practices, supervise offenders to promote compliance and reduce recidivism. The county’s focus on rehabilitation is evident in initiatives like the Community Transition Program, which supports offenders reentering society after prison.
The Monroe County criminal justice system also emphasizes victim support. Victims can provide input during presentence investigations and receive ongoing updates about case progress. The system collaborates with community organizations, such as Centerstone for mental health services, to address underlying issues that contribute to criminal behavior. By combining accountability with rehabilitation, Monroe County strives to create a balanced approach to justice. For anyone involved in this system, whether as a defendant, victim, or family member, accessing resources like the Prosecutor’s Office, Probation Department, or Community Corrections can provide critical guidance. Understanding these processes underscores the importance of legal representation to navigate the complexities of the criminal court system effectively.
Below are key contacts for the criminal justice system in Monroe County, Indiana. These resources may be useful for those navigating legal matters in the area.
Monroe County Prosecutor’s Office
Address: 301 N College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: (812) 349-2670
The Prosecutor’s Office represents the State of Indiana, filing charges and prosecuting cases to seek justice and enhance public safety.
Monroe County Circuit Court
Address: 301 N College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: (812) 349-2614
The Monroe Circuit Court handles a wide range of cases, including criminal, civil, and family law matters, across its nine divisions.
Monroe County Correctional Center (Jail)
Address: 301 N College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: (812) 349-2534
The Correctional Center manages offender intake, release, and security, located in the Charlotte Zietlow Justice Center.
Monroe County Probation Department
Address: 301 N College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: (812) 349-2645
The Probation Department supervises adult and juvenile offenders, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions.
Monroe County Community Corrections
Address: 301 N College Ave, Bloomington, IN 47404
Phone: (812) 349-2000
Community Corrections offers alternatives to incarceration, such as home detention and day reporting, for eligible offenders.
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