What Are The Benefits Of Expunging Criminal Records?

An expungement occurs when an arrest, dismissed charge, or conviction is sealed from public disclosure. In Indiana, both misdemeanors and felonies, with a few exceptions, can be expunged. One limitation, for example, is if you were convicted of a misdemeanor or felony sex or violent offense.

A criminal record expungement can benefit you in a lot of ways. According to Indiana law, after a person’s criminal record is expunged, they are to be treated like they had never been arrested, charged, or convicted of the offense. Generally, this is just one of the many benefits of expunging criminal records. Below are other benefits of expunging criminal records.

Employment

A criminal record can make it hard to find a job. This is especially true if you have a felony conviction on your criminal record. Once a criminal record is expunged, that record is no longer accessible to potential employers. Additionally, if your criminal record is expunged, you do not have to check the box to indicate a conviction or arrest has occurred when applying for a job.

Housing

Many landlords request a criminal background check on tenants. A conviction or even a record of an arrest or criminal charges can be the reason for a tenant’s application to be rejected. Just as with employers, when a criminal record is expunged, it is not accessible to landlords.

Auto Insurance

For example, suppose your criminal record includes a DUI/OWI conviction. In such a case, if you approach an insurance company seeking auto insurance, the insurance company might consider you a high-risk driver, resulting in high rates. A DUI/OWI conviction on your criminal record can even prevent you from obtaining auto insurance. Expunging your DUI/OWI criminal record can help prevent an insurance company from charging you higher premiums or denying you insurance.

Education

A criminal record can also make getting admitted into a school difficult. For example, a school may deny your application if the record of arrest, charge, or conviction goes against school policies. And if you are admitted into a school, your criminal record may make it hard to secure loans or grants to finance your education. A criminal record expungement can help you get accepted into the school of your choice and achieve your educational goals.

Volunteering

Many organizations will require that before a volunteer joins their team, a background check is conducted. An organization can deny you the opportunity to become a volunteer because of your criminal record.

Restoration of Gun Rights

In Indiana, you may lose your right to own or carry a gun after a conviction. However, if you successfully petition the court to expunge your conviction(s), you may have your right to possess a firearm restored.

Restoration of Other Rights

A criminal record expungement can help you regain your right to vote. It can also restore your right to serve as a juror and run for public office.

Speak With an Experienced Indianapolis Expungement Lawyer

The process of expunging criminal records in Indiana can be complicated. It is vital that you seek legal help to ensure the process goes smoothly. Contact Rigney Law LLC to speak to a skilled Indianapolis expungement lawyer today.

Source:

in.gov/courts/iocs/files/pubs-trial-court-courtmgmt-expungement-detailed.pdf