Do you have questions about the Indiana Expungement Law? Call the Indiana Expungement Queen, Stephanie Renner at 317-771-8535 or email me at [email protected] If you are emailing me, please provide your legal name(s) as it appears on mycase.in.gov as well as your date of birth so that I can pull your case files. I provide free consultations, affordable pricing, payment plans (including Buy Now Pay Later) and a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE ON ALL EXPUNGEMENTS. For most expungements, I can handle your Indiana expungement without you even having to show up for a court date. Do you think it all sounds too good to be true? Call my office for a free consultation to find out why they call me the Indiana Expungement Queen. I practice in the entire State of Indiana, including Marion County, Hamilton County, Hendricks County, Boone County, Monroe County, Madison County, Johnson County, Hancock County, Shelby County, Greenfield, Bloomington, Noblesville, Carmel, Fishers, Lebanon, Franklin, Shelbyville, Danville, and Plainfield, Indiana. Lets go over some basic information about the Indiana Expungement Law below. Remember that the information below is a basic summary of Indiana Law and does not contain every possible exception. It is important to talk about your case with an Indiana Expungement Attorney.
Lower-Level Felony Expungement (Class D or Level 6)
Major Felony Expungement (Class A-C or Level 1-5)
Why Choose Stephanie Renner as Your Indiana Expungement Attorney?
Beyond the Basics: Unique Aspects of Indiana Expungement
Frequently Asked Questions About the Indiana Expungement Law
Expungement in Nashville, Brown County, Indiana
Nashville, the county seat of Brown County, Indiana, is a picturesque town of approximately 1,200 residents, celebrated for its thriving arts scene, historic charm, and proximity to Brown County State Park, Indiana’s largest state park. The Brown County Courthouse, a Greek Revival structure built in 1873–1874 at 20 East Main Street in Nashville’s town square, anchors the county’s judicial system, recognized on the National Register of Historic Places for its architectural significance and role as a community landmark. Housing the Brown County Circuit Court, the Clerk’s Office, and related services, the courthouse serves a county of about 15,000 people across 316 square miles. Expungement, governed by Indiana’s Second Chance Law (Indiana Code § 35-38-9), allows individuals to seal or remove certain criminal records, facilitating reintegration. While Brown County adheres to state mandates, its expungement process is uniquely shaped by its low caseload, and community-oriented judicial approach, distinguishing it from urban counties like Allen or suburban Boone. This exploration examines Nashville’s court system and the specific aspects of expungement that reflect Brown County’s rural, artistic identity and judicial practices.
The Brown County Circuit Court, established under the Indiana Constitution, is the county’s sole trial court, handling felonies, misdemeanors, civil disputes, probate, and juvenile matters, with no separate Superior or city courts, unlike Boone County’s three-court system. Located at 20 East Main Street (P.O. Box 85, Nashville, IN 47448), the court operates under Judge Mary Wertz, with contact available at (812) 988-7557. The Brown County Clerk’s Office, led by an elected official limited to two consecutive terms, serves as the recordkeeper, collecting filing fees, court costs, and fines, and managing child support and election board duties. The Clerk’s Office supports online case access via mycase.in.gov and payments at public.courts.in.gov/pay, streamlining expungement prerequisites like settling financial obligations. Brown County’s low crime rate—violent crime at 13.8 compared to the U.S. average of 22.7—results in a modest caseload, enabling the court to address expungements with personalized attention, unlike high-volume courts in Fort Wayne.
Indiana’s Second Chance Law outlines expungement eligibility. Brown County diligently enforces these rules.
The court’s low caseload, driven by Brown County’s small population and tourism-driven economy, allows Judge Wertz to exercise nuanced discretion in some expungement cases. Unlike Fort Wayne’s standardized hearings or Lebanon’s structured allocation, Nashville’s court handles fewer petitions, enabling detailed review. For discretionary cases, such as Level 5 felony, Judges may consider petitioners’ community contributions, like involvement in Nashville’s art galleries, the Brown County Playhouse, or local festivals such as the Bean Blossom Blues Fest. The county’s website highlights its “small-town atmosphere,” and judicial decisions often reflect this ethos, favoring petitioners employed at local businesses like Hard Truth Distilling Co. or volunteering at the Brown County Historical Society. This community focus aligns with Hartford City’s practices but benefits from Nashville’s vibrant cultural scene, amplifying rehabilitation evidence.
Brown County’s Pretrial Diversion and Deferral Program, managed by the Prosecutor’s Office at 31 Buck Stogsdill Way, adds a unique dimension to expungement. Unlike Bartholomew’s Mental Health Diversion or Boone’s Justice Center plans, Brown’s program targets minor offenses, offering dismissal upon completing conditions like community service or fines, often within six months to a year. Successful completion results in non-conviction records eligible for automatic expungement post-2022, per Indiana law. The Prosecutor’s Office, contactable at (812) 988-5470, ensures compliance, notifying victims if required, as in cases involving restitution. This program, less extensive than Allen’s Drug Court, streamlines minor expungements, reflecting Nashville’s focus on low-level reform.
The Probation Department, also in the courthouse, supports expungement by verifying compliance with court orders, particularly for convictions requiring probation or restitution. Unlike Columbus’s Court Services, Brown’s probation is small-scale but effective, ensuring petitioners meet financial and behavioral criteria. For juvenile records, expungeable at age 18 if no further issues arise, probation officers coordinate with the court to confirm eligibility, leveraging community resources like Nashville’s youth programs. This contrasts with Benton County’s minimal corrections, highlighting Brown’s ability to integrate probation into expungement despite rural constraints. The department’s close ties with the Prosecutor’s Office ensure thorough petition reviews, minimizing delays compared to Boone’s busier courts.
Courthouse accessibility shapes Brown County’s expungement filings. Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Security measures, including Sheriff’s Office screening, ensure safety without the strict phone bans seen in Blackford County. The courthouse’s historic log cabin jail, now a museum, underscores Nashville’s preservationist ethos, paralleled by expungement’s aim to restore futures. Petitioners must navigate these logistics, often traveling from rural areas like Morgantown, but the Clerk’s guidance travel barriers by assisting with driving directions, unlike Fowler’s isolation challenges.
Financial hurdles persist in Brown County, where the median income of $56,000 exceeds Blackford’s but trails Boone’s $68,000. The $157 filing fee and outstanding fines—common in cases like ordinance violations reported by local courts—can delay petitions. Online payments help, but restitution or collections, noted in county records, complicate eligibility. Fee waivers require indigency proof. Ineligible offenses—murder, sex crimes like child molesting, or public corruption—face strict exclusion, per Indiana law, and the Prosecutor’s Office ensures compliance, maintaining judicial integrity without reported fraud cases, unlike other counties’ documented issues.
Nashville’s cultural context, with its artist colony and tourism hub status, reinforces expungement’s significance. The courthouse, adjacent to the Nashville House and Brown County Art Gallery, symbolizes justice amid creativity, mirroring expungement’s promise of renewal. Sealed records enable jobs at tourism-driven businesses like the Brown County Inn or Abe Martin Lodge, critical in a county where 1.3 million park visitors annually boost the economy. Restored rights, such as voting, resonate in a rural area valuing self-reliance and civic engagement. Automatic expungements for recent non-convictions, processed via the Indiana State Police, ease minor cases, but felonies require meticulous filings, testing petitioners in a county with strong schools but no local legal clinics.
Legal representation remains a challenge, as Brown County lacks resident expungement attorneys. Unfortunately, pro se filings dominate. Multi-county filings, such as with Monroe County (Bloomington), must comply with the statutory window. The court’s adherence to the 2017 Allen County precedent ensures hearings for contested petitions, when objections are filed.
In conclusion, Nashville’s Brown County Circuit Court blends state expungement law with rural pragmatism, marked by an accessible Clerk’s Office, diversion programs, and discretion tied to community ties. Unique aspects—like low caseloads enabling personalized rulings, pretrial diversion for minor offenses, and cultural alignment with Nashville’s artsy ethos—set Brown apart from urban Allen or suburban Boone Counties. For Nashville residents, expungement is a legal and communal lifeline, reflecting a town proud of its heritage and dedicated to second chances within its historic courthouse walls.
If you have questions about the expungement process, call the Indiana Expungement Queen today for a free consultation 317-771-8535.
Indiana Expungement Rules: Your Guide to a Fresh Start with Stephanie Renner
Are you tired of a past mistake holding you back? Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony conviction, Indiana’s Second Chance Law offers a path to clear your criminal record and reclaim your life. Indiana Expungement Lawyer Stephanie Renner, the Indiana Expungement Queen, focuses on helping Hoosiers like you navigate the complex Indiana expungement process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about expunging your record in Indiana—covering misdemeanor expungement, felony expungement, eligibility requirements, unique insights into the process, and how Stephanie Renner can help you achieve a fresh start. Call 317-771-8535 today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward freedom.
What Is Indiana Expungement?
Expungement in Indiana, often referred to as the “Second Chance Law,” is a legal process that allows individuals to expunge or seal certain records. When a case is expunged, it is still visible to the public. When a case is expunged and sealed, it means that the case is no longer visible to the public and will not appear on mycase.in.gov It is important to remember that law enforcement, prosecutors, Judges, and some government actors can still view sealed records). Expungement and sealing will give you a cleaner slate for employment, housing, education, and more. Unlike other states where expungement might only apply to minor offenses, Indiana’s laws are notably progressive, offering relief for both misdemeanors and many felonies—provided you meet specific criteria.
Stephanie Renner, an Indiana expungement attorney with a proven track record, has earned her nickname the Indiana Expungement Queen by successfully guiding clients through this transformative process. Her expertise ensures that your petition is filed correctly, maximizing your chances of approval. Stephanie Renner also provides a MONEY BACK GUARANTEE ON ALL EXPUNGEMENTS.
Misdemeanor Expungement in Indiana: Rules and Requirements
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses than felonies, but they can still cast a long shadow over your life. Fortunately, Indiana law makes it relatively straightforward to expunge misdemeanor convictions, and courts are required to grant these petitions if you meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility for Misdemeanor Expungement
- Waiting Period: At least 5 years must have passed since the date of your conviction—not the arrest or sentencing date, but the day the court entered your conviction.
- Clean Record: You must have no convictions in the 5 years prior to filing your petition. This includes convictions from any jurisdiction, not just Indiana.
- No Pending Charges: You cannot have any active criminal cases or charges pending against you at the time of filing.
- Fines and Fees: All court-ordered fines, fees, restitution, and costs associated with the misdemeanor must be paid in full.
Unique Insight:
One little-known aspect of misdemeanor expungement is that the 5-year waiting period can sometimes be waived with written consent from the prosecuting attorney. This is called early expungement. Stephanie Renner’s relationships with prosecutors in Indiana can allow her to negotiate this waiver, speeding up the process for her clients. While Stephanie guarantees that expungement will be granted, she can not guarantee that it will be granted early.
The Process:
To expunge a misdemeanor, you must file a petition in the county where the conviction occurred. The petition must list every record you want expunged. In Indiana, you only get one shot at expungement for convictions in your lifetime. Once filed, the prosecutor has 30 days to object. If no objection is raised and all criteria are met, the court must grant the expungement, sealing your record from public access.
Benefits of Misdemeanor Expungement
Once expunged, your misdemeanor conviction is hidden from employers, landlords, and the general public. You can legally answer “no” when asked if you’ve been convicted of a crime. This opens doors that were previously closed, from job opportunities to volunteer positions at your child’s school.
Felony Expungement in Indiana: A Deeper Dive
Felony convictions carry heavier consequences, but Indiana’s expungement laws offer hope even for these more serious offenses. However, the rules are stricter, and the process varies depending on the felony’s severity. Let’s explore the two main categories: lower-level felonies (Class D or Level 6) and major felonies (Class A-C or Level 1-5).
Lower-Level Felony Expungement (Class D or Level 6)
Class D felonies (pre-2014) and Level 6 felonies (post-2014) are the least severe felony classifications in Indiana. These include offenses like theft, possession of marijuana, or certain DUIs.
Eligibility for Low Level Felony Expungement
Here’s what’s required to expunge class D or level 6 felonies.:
- Waiting Period: At least 8 years must have passed since the conviction date.
- Clean Record: No convictions in the 8 years prior to filing.
- No Pending Charges: No active criminal cases against you.
- Fines and Fees: All financial obligations must be satisfied.
Key Difference:
Like misdemeanors, courts must grant expungement for Class D or Level 6 felonies if you meet these conditions—no judicial discretion is involved. However, if your felony was reduced to a misdemeanor at sentencing (via Alternative Misdemeanor Sentencing), the 5-year misdemeanor rule applies instead. Also, there are some exceptions to the general rule. For example, cases that resulted in injury can be expunged, but not sealed. Additionally, cases involving injury are to the discretion of the Judge and are not mandatory. Lastly, some offenses (such as sex offenses) are not eligible even if all other criteria are met.
Major Felony Expungement (Class A-C or Level 1-5)
Major felonies—such as burglary, robbery, or drug dealing—are tougher to expunge. Additionally, major felony cases are NEVER eligible for sealing. Unlike lower-level offenses, courts have discretion to approve or deny these petitions, even if you meet the basic requirements.
Eligibility for Major Felony Expungement
- Waiting Period: At least 8 years since the conviction or 3 years since completing your sentence (whichever is later).
- Clean Record: No convictions in the 8 years prior to filing.
- No Pending Charges: No active cases.
- Fines and Fees: All financial obligations paid.
Unique Twist:
For major felonies, records aren’t fully sealed—they’re marked “expunged” and remain accessible to the public. Stephanie Renner’s advocacy skills shine here, as she presents compelling arguments to sway judges in your favor, drawing on her experience as a former law clerk handling complex criminal cases.
Ineligible Felonies
Not all felonies can be expunged. Indiana law excludes:
- Sex or violent offender registry offenses (e.g., rape, child molestation).
- Official misconduct by public servants.
- Two or more unrelated felonies involving deadly weapons.
- Homicide-related crimes (e.g., murder, manslaughter).
If you’re unsure about your felony’s eligibility, Stephanie offers a free consultation to review your case and provide clarity.
Why Choose Stephanie Renner as Your Indiana Expungement Attorney?
Expungement is a one-time opportunity in Indiana, and mistakes can bar you from trying again. You only get one shot, do not miss your chance. This opportunity comes once in a lifetime. Stephanie Renner brings unmatched expertise and a client-first approach to every case:
- Proven Experience: With a background in state and federal criminal defense, Stephanie has handled everything from petty theft to white-collar crimes, giving her a broad perspective on expungement challenges.
- Personalized Service: Unlike big firms, Stephanie offers direct access and tailored strategies, often meeting clients with her “para-beagles” in tow for a welcoming touch.
- Affordable Rates: Flexible payment plans and reasonable fees make expungement accessible to everyone in Indiana.
- Local Advantage: Based in Indiana, she knows the courts intimately, streamlining the process across Indiana.
Unique Offering: Stephanie’s insider tip? She often uses character references and rehabilitation evidence—like job history or community service—to strengthen discretionary felony cases, a strategy rarely highlighted or utilized by other expungement firms.
The Indiana Expungement Process: Step-by-Step
Filing for expungement can feel daunting, but Stephanie simplifies it into manageable steps:
- Eligibility Check: Stephanie reviews your criminal history to confirm you meet the time, payment, and clean-record requirements.
- Petition Preparation: Stephanie drafts a detailed petition, ensuring that the Indiana Code is complied with.
- Filing: The petition is filed in the county of conviction (or each county if multiple apply), with all petitions due within a 1-year window.
- Prosecutor Review: The prosecutor has 30 days to object.
- Court Decision: For mandatory expungements (misdemeanors, Level 6 felonies), approval is guaranteed if criteria are met. For major felonies, a hearing may be required, where Stephanie advocates on your behalf.
- Record Sealing: Once approved, your record is sealed or marked “expunged,” effective immediately.
Timeline Insight: Most cases take 30 to 90 days. Stephanie’s proactive filing keeps delays to a minimum.
Beyond the Basics: Unique Aspects of Indiana Expungement
Here are some lesser-known facets of Indiana expungement that Stephanie leverages for her clients:
Restoring Rights
Expungement often restores civil rights, like voting or jury service, lost due to a felony. For gun rights, the picture is murkier—federal law may still restrict ownership, even post-expungement. Stephanie provides case-specific advice to clarify your status. In some cases (such as domestic convictions) a separate petition to restore firearm rights is sometimes necessary. However, Stephanie can also represent you on the petition to restore firearm rights.
Multiple Counties, One Chance
If you have convictions in different Indiana counties, you must file separate petitions in each, all within 365 days. Miss this window, and unfiled records stay public. Stephanie coordinates multi-county filings seamlessly.
Collateral Consequences
Expungement doesn’t erase everything. Courts, law enforcement, and certain licensing boards can still access sealed records. Stephanie educates clients on these limits, ensuring no surprises down the road.
Automatic Expungement
Since 2022, Indiana automatically seals some non-conviction records (e.g., dismissed arrests) upon disposition, no petition required. Stephanie checks if you’ve already benefited, saving time and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Indiana Expungement Law
1. What is sealing?
Sealing is a legal process that removes a criminal conviction from your public record. This can be beneficial for various reasons, including employment, housing, and education.
2. What types of convictions can be expunged in Indiana?
Indiana law allows for the expungement of certain misdemeanor and felony convictions. However, not all convictions are eligible. Some factors that can affect eligibility include the severity of the crime, the time elapsed since the conviction, and whether there were any subsequent convictions.
3. How long do I have to wait before I can file for expungement?
The waiting period for expungement depends on the type of conviction. For misdemeanors, it is generally 5 years after the date of conviction. For felonies, the waiting period is typically longer, often 8 years or more. To find out when your specific waiting period ends, call 317-771-8535.
4. Can I expunge a conviction if I have been arrested multiple times?
Multiple arrests do not necessarily disqualify you from expungement, but they can affect your eligibility. It’s important to consult with an attorney to determine your specific situation.
5. Can I expunge a conviction if I have been convicted of a crime in another state?
If a conviction occurred in another state, you will need to follow the expungement procedures in that state.
6. Will expungement completely erase my criminal record?
No, expungement does not completely erase your criminal record. While sealing removes the conviction from public access, it may still be visible in certain databases or for specific purposes, such as background checks for certain professions or government positions.
7. Can I expunge a conviction if I have been arrested but not convicted?
Yes, you can typically expunge an arrest record if you were not convicted of a crime.
8. What is the difference between expungement and sealing?
In Indiana, the term “expungement” means that you have not been convicted of a crime. The term “sealing” prevents the public from accessing the record. Click here, for a more detailed explanation of the differences between expungement and sealing.
9. How much does expungement cost?
The cost of expungement can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case and whether you hire an attorney. There may also be court fees and other expenses involved. Court fees are typically 162 per county. There is generally a sheriff service fee of $28.
10. Do I need an attorney to file for expungement?
While it is possible to file for expungement on your own, it is generally recommended to consult with an attorney who focuses on expungement law. An Indiana expungement attorney can help you navigate the legal process, ensure that your application is complete and accurate, and represent you in court if necessary. Another attorney once told me that doing an expungement is like changing the brakes in a car – as long as you have done it a few hundred times and you know what you are doing – it will go smoothly. If you are doing google searches for how to do it yourself, then you don’t know what you are doing and the process is likely to end badly.
11. How long does the expungement process take?
The timeline for expungement can vary, but it typically takes 30 to 90 days. Factors that can affect the processing time include the complexity of the case, the workload of the court, and whether there are any objections from the state.
12. Can I expunge a conviction if I have a pending criminal case?
You cannot expunge a conviction while there is a pending criminal case against you.
13. Can I expunge a conviction if I have been convicted of a crime of violence?
Certain crimes of violence may not be eligible for expungement. The specific eligibility criteria can vary depending on the nature of the crime. To see a list of what cases can and can not be expunged, click here.
14. Can I expunge a conviction if I have been convicted of a sex crime?
Expungement is generally not available for sex crimes.
15. Can I expunge a conviction if I have been convicted of a federal crime?
Federal convictions are typically handled by the federal court system, and can generally not be expunged.
Take Control of Your Future Today
Don’t let a criminal record define you. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, the Indiana Expungement Queen, Stephanie Renner, the premier Indiana expungement attorney, is here to guide you through Indiana’s expungement rules with expertise and empathy. Call 317-771-8535 for your free consultation. Your second chance starts now! You can also click the following to view Indiana Expungement Law information by County or Statewide Indiana Expungement Law information.
Additional Indiana Expungement Resources
Looking for more information about Indiana expungement laws or the process of clearing your criminal record? Below are some valuable resources from trusted sources that complement the expertise offered by Stephanie Renner . These links provide in-depth guides, charts, and tips to help you better understand your options under Indiana’s Second Chance Law.
- Indiana Expungement Law Explained – A beginner-friendly overview of how expungement works in Indiana, perfect for those just starting their research.
- 2025 Indiana Expungement Law Guide – An up-to-date, comprehensive look at expungement laws specific to Indiana and Indianapolis, with insights into recent changes.
- Indiana Expungement Charts and Tables – Visual breakdowns of eligibility rules and timelines for felonies and misdemeanors in Indiana.
- How to Expunge Your Record Under Indiana’s Second Chance Law – A step-by-step guide to navigating the expungement process under this landmark legislation.
- Indiana Expungement: Your Guide to Clearing Your Record – A practical resource for Hoosiers seeking a fresh start through expungement.
- Indiana Expungement Forms: How to File in Indianapolis – Detailed instructions on completing and filing expungement paperwork, tailored to Marion County residents.
- Indiana Expungement Tips and Tricks – Lesser-known strategies to improve your chances of a successful expungement petition.
- Can I Expunge My Record Myself in Indiana? – An exploration of DIY expungement versus hiring an attorney, with pros and cons.
- Indiana Expungement Law – An in depth discussion of the Indiana Expungement Law.
While these resources offer excellent background information, nothing beats the personalized guidance of Stephanie Renner, the Indiana Expungement Queen. Contact her today at 317-771-8535 to ensure your expungement petition is handled with precision and care.
DISCLAIMER – The information contained on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice or as an offer to perform legal services on any subject matter. The content of this web site contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments or information. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete or current. We make no warranty, expressed or implied, about the accuracy or reliability of the information at this website or at any other website to which it is linked. Recipients of content from this site should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in the site without seeking appropriate legal advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from an Indiana Criminal Defense attorney or attorney licensed in the recipient’s state. Nothing herein is intended to create an attorney-client relationship and shall not be construed as legal advice. This is not an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship.