How to Expunge a Criminal Record in Indiana (2025 Guide)

Having a criminal record in Indiana can significantly hinder your ability to find employment, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses. However, Indiana's expungement laws offer a second chance, allowing eligible individuals to clear their records and move forward with a clean slate.

Expungement in Indiana refers to the legal process of sealing or erasing your criminal records from public access. While it doesn't completely erase records, it ensures they aren't visible to potential employers, landlords, or the general public. This process can dramatically enhance your opportunities and remove barriers that past mistakes have placed on your future.

So, who exactly qualifies for expungement in Indiana in 2025? Here's what you need to know:

• Dismissed Cases or Acquittals: If your charges were dismissed or you were acquitted, expungement is automatic 60 days after the case's resolution.

• Misdemeanor Convictions: You're eligible after a five-year waiting period post-conviction, provided you've had no subsequent offenses.

• Level 6 or Class D Felonies: An eight-year waiting period applies. In some cases, these felonies can first be reduced to misdemeanors, potentially shortening your wait.

• Serious Felonies: Non-violent serious felonies require an eight-year waiting period after completing your sentence and need the prosecutor's consent.

Recent amendments in Indiana law have streamlined expungement, making the process more accessible. Notably, collateral actions linked to the original charges, such as protective orders or related lawsuits, are also eligible for sealing. Additionally, automatic expungements for dismissed charges reflect Indiana’s commitment to fairness and rehabilitation, reducing the stigma around past legal troubles.

Understanding and navigating these eligibility criteria and procedural details can be complex, making experienced legal guidance invaluable. Errors or omissions in your expungement petition could result in denial, and you might have to wait another three years to reapply.

At Brinkley Law, our seasoned expungement attorney is committed to helping you regain your peace of mind and future opportunities. We provide thorough, personalized legal advice, ensuring your petition meets all necessary criteria for success.

Ready to move past your criminal record and reclaim control of your life? Don't wait. Contact Brinkley Law today for a free, confidential consultation. Our experienced attorney will assess your eligibility and guide you through every step, ensuring the best possible outcome. Take your first step toward freedom and opportunity - call now 317.766.1379!