Indiana’s New Expungement Path (SB 281)

Starting July 2025, SB 281 repeals automatic juvenile expungement, meaning young defendants must now file a petition. Certain violent crimes remain off-limits, and anyone convicted of possessing a firearm as a serious violent felon cannot erase that history. 

Juvenile-court records (names, charges, key filings) must be made quickly available to law enforcement via a secure web portal. Expect faster background checks and fewer surprises when juvenile matters fall into adult cases.

Why it matters for you:

1. Employment & housing: A clean record can unlock jobs and rentals that automated screeners would otherwise reject.

2. Gun rights: The carve-outs for violent offenses mean timing your petition and the specific charge language matters.

3. Paperwork prep: Petitions must now include the full chronological case summary. Missing that exhibit = instant dismissal.

   
   

Quick checklist:

• Wait the waiting period (unless you secure prosecutor consent).

• Gather the entire CCS plus charging documents.

• Verify your charge isn’t excluded (crimes of violence, elected-official misconduct, etc.).

  
  

Ready to clear the slate? Book an expungement consultation with Brinkley Law at 317-766-1379. We’ll review your eligibility and draft the petition so you can move forward faster.