In order to begin your Indiana Criminal Record Expungement application, call 317-695-7700. 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 with 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 [email protected]. 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.

I provide 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 had extensive experience with Indiana’s Second Chance Law since its inception.  My office can effectively handle the complexities of the expungement process, including preparing petitions and working with prosecuting attorneys to minimize the chance of having to appear in Court.  I have personally handled countless expungements in Indiana in order to help my clients move past their criminal record. 

I have practiced criminal defense my entire career, taught criminal law at the IU School of Law, and have personally handled thousands of cases.  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 have been recognized as one of the top ten criminal defense attorneys in the State of Indiana under the age of forty by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, and my office has been recognized as a Top 10 Law Firm by the American Association of Attorney Advocates. 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.  Click on any of the following links for more information: 

Indiana Expungement Law: Your Guide to Clearing Your Record

Welcome to Jeff Cardella’s comprehensive guide to Indiana expungement law. Whether you’re seeking to clear a criminal record or understand the Indiana Second Chance Law, our experienced Indianapolis expungement attorneys are here to help you navigate the process.

What Is Indiana Expungement?

Expungement in Indiana, governed by the Indiana Second Chance Law (IC 35-38-9), allows individuals to seal or remove certain criminal records from public view. This legal process can help you move forward by limiting access to past arrests, charges, or convictions, improving opportunities for employment, housing, and education. 

Who Is Eligible for Expungement in Indiana?

Eligibility for expungement depends on the type of offense and time elapsed since the conviction or arrest. Key categories include:

  • Arrests Without Conviction: Eligible for immediate expungement if no charges were filed or charges were dropped.
  • Misdemeanors: Eligible after 5 years from conviction date, with no pending charges.
  • Minor Felonies: Eligible after 8 years, subject to specific conditions.
  • Major Felonies: May require 10 years and prosecutor consent in some cases.

Certain serious offenses, like murder or sex crimes, are generally ineligible. Our attorneys can review your record to confirm eligibility.

How to File for Expungement in Indiana

The expungement process involves several steps, which our team can streamline for you:

  1. Obtain Your Criminal Record: Gather records from all relevant counties.
  2. Determine Eligibility: Confirm your case meets statutory requirements.
  3. Complete Forms: File the appropriate petition with the court.
  4. Notify Agencies: Serve the petition to the prosecutor and other required parties.
  5. Attend Hearing: Some cases require a court appearance, though many are uncontested.
  6. Receive Order: If approved, your record is sealed or expunged.

While it’s possible to file yourself, errors can delay or deny your petition. Our Indianapolis expungement lawyers ensure accuracy and efficiency.

Benefits of Expunging Your Record

Expungement offers life-changing advantages, including:

  • Improved Job Prospects: Employers typically cannot see expunged records during background checks.
  • Housing Opportunities: Landlords may be more likely to approve applications.
  • Educational Access: Expungement can ease admission to colleges or financial aid programs.
  • Peace of Mind: Move forward without the stigma of a past mistake.

Indiana Expungement Forms

Filing requires specific statutory compliance for:

  • Petition for Expungement of Conviction
  • Petition for Expungement of Arrest Records
  • Notice of Expungement Hearing

Our team provides tailored filings to simplify the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana Expungement

Can I expunge my record myself?

Yes, but the process is complex, and mistakes can lead to denial. An attorney improves your chances of success.

How long does expungement take?

Typically 1-3 months, depending on the county and case complexity.

Will my record be completely erased?

Sealed records are sealed from public view but may remain accessible to certain agencies (e.g., law enforcement).

Can I expunge multiple convictions?

Yes, but you may need to file separate petitions for each county.

Contact Jeff Cardella for Expungement Help

Ready to clear your record? Jeff Cardella focuses on expungement law. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Phone: (317) 695-7700
Email: [email protected]
Address: 350 Massachusetts Ave #357, Indianapolis, IN 46204