A criminal record can follow you around and negatively affect your life. It can make it difficult to obtain gainful employment. An Indianapolis expungement lawyer may be able to help you clear your record and move on with your life.

Indiana Expungement Law

Indiana code governs expungement law, and the qualifications can depend on the crime’s severity and whether or not you were convicted. In general, the severity of the crime and the amount of time you and your expungement lawyer in Indianapolis must wait to petition the court for expungement are directly proportional:

• Dismissal or no conviction – 1 year
• Conviction of misdemeanor offense – 5 years
• Conviction of D or Level 6 felony – 8 years
• Conviction of less serious felony – 8 years or 3 years after sentence has been served
• Conviction of serious felony – 10 years or 5 years after sentence has been served

Exceptions

If the prosecutor in the county in which you were convicted agrees in writing, you may be able to petition for an early expungement. Your petition must still meet all the requirements, including proof that all paperwork is in order and that no outstanding fines or restitution obligations remain. An experienced Indianapolis expungement lawyer who has fostered a good relationship with the prosecutor’s office is a valuable resource, especially if you are seeking early expungement.

Importance of Representation

Cleaning up your record can enhance your life. You may be able to drop the stigma of a criminal record and have more job opportunities. You often only get one shot, however, to expunge your record. A former prosecutor may have valuable insight on how to make the most solid case. A lawyer who specializes in expungement cases, such as one from Potts Law LLC, is probably your best shot at having arrests or even convictions erased. Contact us today for more information and a free consultation at (317) 951-0087 OR fill out the online contact form to receive a call from Potts Law.