Most people don’t realize just how powerful Indiana’s expungement law really is. If you qualify, it gives you the right to legally say, “I’ve never been arrested or convicted.” That’s not a figure of speech, it’s a legal protection that changes lives.
At the Marc Lopez Law Firm, we help clients with all kinds of criminal defense matters. But nothing beats the emotional payoff of a successful expungement. People call us crying tears of joy. And once you understand what expungement actually does, it’s easy to see why.
What Does Expungement Actually Do?
Expungement doesn’t just erase your record from public databases, it restores your privacy, your reputation, and in many cases, your opportunities.
Once a record is expunged:
- Employers and licensing boards can’t use it against you
- You can legally say you’ve never been convicted
- Online background checks show nothing
- Nosy neighbors and internet stalkers see a clean slate
It’s not just about avoiding awkward questions. It’s about finally putting the past behind you and moving on with your life.
Why People Love Expungement
Freedom from the Past
When we tell someone, “You’re eligible,” their relief is almost instant. Most people assume they’re stuck with their record forever. That’s just not true. Indiana law gives people a way out if they know where to look and how to ask.
Career and License Protection
Expungement opens doors. A clean record can make all the difference when you’re applying for a job, seeking a promotion, or trying to renew a professional license. Once your record is expunged, it’s legally off-limits. Period.
Pride in the Process
Even in cases where a higher-level felony is only marked as “expunged” and not erased completely, clients tell us it still feels like a major win. It’s a sign they’ve done the work and moved on from old mistakes. And that feeling matters.
Who Qualifies for Expungement?
In general, you may be eligible for expungement in Indiana if:
- It’s been at least 5 years since your conviction or guilty plea
- You haven’t had any new arrests or convictions since then
- You’ve completed your sentence, including probation and fines
- You’re not currently facing any new charges
There are exceptions and special rules for certain felony levels and multiple cases. But don’t assume you’re ineligible just because the process looks complicated. That’s where we come in.
Why You Shouldn’t Try to File on Your Own
The expungement process is full of technical requirements and strict deadlines. If you file incorrectly your petition can be denied, and in some cases, you may have to wait another three years before trying again.
Our team knows the system well, and we know how to get it right the first time.
The Calls We Never Forget
We’ve handled thousands of criminal cases. But the calls that stick with us are from the people we’ve helped clean up their records. They’re grateful in a way that’s hard to describe. Because expungement doesn’t just remove a record. It lifts a weight.
One client said it best: “It finally feels like I can breathe again.”
Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate
If it’s been at least five years since your conviction or guilty plea, give us a call. We’ll take a look at your case and let you know what your options are. You may be closer to a clean slate than you think.
Call the Marc Lopez Law Firm at 317-632-3642, and let us help you move forward.
And remember: always plead the 5th.