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What Is Criminal Expungement?

Expungement is a legal process that removes or seals criminal records from public view, giving you a clean slate.

Why Expungement Matters

Clearing your record can open doors that a criminal charge may have closed. An expungement can improve your chances of getting a better job, qualifying for safe and affordable housing, accessing education and training programs, and rebuilding your personal and professional reputation. When your record is cleared, you can move forward with confidence.

Expungement vs. Record Sealing

Expungement clears or hides your record from most employers, landlords, and public background checks.

Record sealing limits who can view your record but doesn’t erase it—courts and law enforcement can still access it.

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Indiana Expungement Cases

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Prior to filing any expungement in the State of Indiana you must first meet the following requirements: no pending criminal charges, all court costs, fees and restitution has been paid in full, and the waiting period must be met. 

  • Arrests or charges that were dismissed

    • Require a 1-year waiting period from the date of arrest or charge being dismissed.

  • Misdemeanors and Class D/Level 6 felonies

    • Require a 5-year waiting period from the date of conviction.

  • Class A–C / Level 1–5 felonies (non-violent)

    • Require an 8-year waiting period or 3 years after completion of the sentence — whichever is later.

  • Class A–C / Level 1–5 felonies (serious bodily injury cases)

    • Require a 10-year waiting period or 5 years after completion of the sentence — whichever is later.

Expungement eligibility varies based on the details of your case and Indiana law. The information above is general guidance only and does not guarantee eligibility. Please contact our office for a free review of your specific record.

The Expungement Process

  1. Record Review – We check your criminal history and confirm your eligibility.

  2. File the Petition – All paperwork is prepared and filed with the correct court.

  3. Court Hearing (If Needed) – If the judge requires a hearing, your attorney handles it for you.

  4. Record Sealed or Cleared – Once approved, your record is sealed or restricted from public view.

You’re supported at every step—from review to final approval—so you always know what to expect and where your case stands.

  • In Indiana, expungements can take a minimum of 1 month to several months. The prosecutor of the county in which the expungement is filed has 20 days to respond or "answer" the petition for expungement and can object to the same. Your attorney will track your case and keep you updated throughout the process.

  • Expungement removes or restricts your record from public view. Most employers, landlords, and background checks will no longer see it. Some government agencies may still access certain records depending on the offense.

  • For most people, no—once expunged, your record shouldn’t appear on standard employment background checks. Law enforcement and some government agencies may still access certain sealed records.

  • Indiana allows you to file on your own, but the process can be complex. An attorney helps ensure your petition is filed correctly, meets all legal requirements, and avoids delays or denial.

  • Even dismissed charges can show up on background checks. The good news is that dismissed cases are often eligible for expungement after one year, allowing you to clear them from public view.

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A clean record can change everything — and we’re here to help you get there.

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