Affordable Dearborn County, Indiana Expungement Lawyer Stephanie Renner Free Consultation Felony & Misdemanor Expungement Attorney Lawrenceburg, Indiana

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.

Indiana Expungement Cheat Sheet

Expungement in Lawrenceburg, Dearborn County, Indiana

Indiana Expungement Rules: Your Guide to a Fresh Start with Stephanie Renner

What Is Indiana Expungement?

Misdemeanor Expungement in Indiana: Rules and Requirements

Felony Expungement in Indiana: A Deeper Dive

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

Restoring Rights

Multiple Counties, One Chance

Collateral Consequences

Automatic Expungement

Frequently Asked Questions About the Indiana Expungement Law

Additional Indiana Expungement Resources

Expungement in Lawrenceburg, Dearborn County, Indiana

Lawrenceburg, a historic river town of roughly 5,000 residents, serves as the county seat of Dearborn County, Indiana, perched along the Ohio River with a vibrant blend of industrial grit and scenic charm. The Dearborn County Courthouse, a stately Greek Revival edifice at 165 Mary Street, anchors the county’s judicial operations, its 1837 brick-and-limestone design a testament to endurance, having survived floods and fires to earn National Register status. This courthouse, paired with the adjacent Justice Center at 301 West High Street, houses the Dearborn County Circuit Court, Superior Court I, Superior Court II, and Clerk’s Office, serving about 50,000 residents across 307 square miles. Expungement, Indiana’s mechanism for sealing or erasing criminal records under the Second Chance Law (Indiana Code § 35-38-9), offers a pivotal opportunity for renewal, but it demands meticulous care. Dearborn County adheres to state law, yet its expungement process is uniquely shaped by a specialized drug court program, a judicial emphasis on economic reintegration, and a prosecutor’s strategic case review, setting it apart from places like Daviess or Allen Counties. The Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure are enforced, and an omission in a petition can lead to denial, so hiring an attorney is strongly recommended to navigate this one-time chance successfully. Let’s journey through Lawrenceburg’s courts, highlighting what makes Dearborn County’s expungement approach distinct, crafted to stand apart with fresh perspective.

Dearborn County’s judicial framework pulses with purpose, split between the courthouse’s historic elegance and the Justice Center’s modern efficiency. The Circuit Court, led by Judge Aaron J. Negangard at (812) 537-8865, tackles felonies, civil disputes, and probate, its courtroom steeped in the gravitas of hand-carved woodwork. Superior Court I, under Judge Jonathan N. Cleary, and Superior Court II, presided over by Judge Sally A. McLaughlin, handle misdemeanors, traffic cases, and small claims, reachable at (812) 537-8874. Expungement petitions are assigned by offense—felonies to Circuit, lesser charges to Superior Courts—with a local rule ensuring balanced dockets, distinct from Daviess County’s simpler split. The Clerk’s Office, managed by Clerk Rick Probst at (812) 537-8867, streamlines filings, fines, and records, offering online access via mycase.in.gov and public.courts.in.gov/pay. Dearborn’s violent crime rate, around 18.5—below the U.S. average of 22.7—yields a steady but manageable caseload, busier than Crawford’s quiet pace but less intense than Fort Wayne’s churn, allowing judges to scrutinize expungement petitions thoroughly. Open weekdays from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, the courthouse and Justice Center form Lawrenceburg’s judicial core, bridging past and present for those seeking a clean slate.

Indiana’s expungement law is exacting. Non-conviction records—arrests or dropped charges—must be sealed, with post-June 2022 dismissals or acquittals cleared automatically. Convictions require more patience. The one-shot rule demands including all county convictions in one window, or the chance can be lost forever. Pending charges bar eligibility. Dearborn County upholds these rules, and the Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure ensure precision.  

Dearborn County’s expungement process shines through its Drug Court, a Superior Court II initiative that transforms eligibility for substance-related offenses. Unlike Daviess County’s community corrections or Clinton County’s juvenile focus, this program targets adults with charges like possession of methamphetamine, offering intensive rehab, job training, and monitoring. Successful graduates often see charges dismissed, qualifying for automatic sealing, or reduced convictions that strengthen expungement petitions. For a Level 5 felony, completing Drug Court—perhaps landing a job at Aurora’s Seagram’s plant—can persuade Judge McLaughlin to grant relief, a pathway less available in Crawford County’s lean system. Attorneys are crucial to document this progress accurately, aligning with trial procedure rules to prevent denials, ensuring petitioners leverage the program’s benefits for roles at Lawrenceburg’s riverfront industries.

The Prosecutor’s Office, led by Lynn M. Deddens at (812) 537-8884, crafts a deliberate review process that shapes expungement outcomes. Beyond the 30-day evaluation, Deddens’s team assesses petitioners’ broader impact—say, a misdemeanor offender now mentoring at Dearborn County’s YMCA.  Dearborn’s prosecutors prioritize community safety, rarely waiving waiting periods but offering detailed feedback to refine petitions. For serious felonies, victim notifications are rigorous, and objections spark hearings per a 2017 state precedent, adding scrutiny. Legal counsel is advised, meeting procedural standards that could otherwise halt a petition.

Judicial decisions in Dearborn County weave Lawrenceburg’s economic vitality into expungement rulings. With a caseload lighter than Allen’s but larger than English’s, Judges prioritize petitioners’ reintegration into the county’s workforce. A Circuit Court petitioner employed at Rising Star Casino or coaching Aurora’s youth soccer might resonate with Judge Negangard, signaling a return to productivity over mere compliance. Superior Court I misdemeanor cases, like public intoxication, reflect similar values, but petitions must be airtight. Attorneys highlight these contributions, ensuring every record—like a Dillsboro charge—complies with trial rules, avoiding the rejection risks seen in less employment-focused counties.

Dearborn’s Probation Department, based at the Justice Center, anchors expungement by confirming compliance for convictions tied to probation or restitution. For a misdemeanor like theft, officers verify payments or community service—perhaps aiding Lawrenceburg’s Riverfront Trail cleanup—which judges view as proof of reform. Juvenile records, expungeable at 18 if clean, follow similar oversight, though Dearborn lacks Cass County’s structured diversion. Legal counsel ensures these reports are presented correctly, preventing procedural errors that could lead to denial.

Dearborn’s median income of $62,000 eases some financial strain, but the $157 fee or old fines—like for a vandalism case—can still challenge petitioners. Waivers require careful documentation. Ineligible crimes—murder, sex offenses, corruption—are firmly barred, and Deddens’s team upholds integrity, with no fraud issues reported. A sealed record unlocks jobs at Dearborn County Hospital or local manufacturers, tying expungement to Lawrenceburg’s economic pulse. Restored rights, like voting, reconnect folks to civic life.

Legal assistance is advised—Dearborn has few local expungement experts, but Cincinnati or Indianapolis firms serve the area. The Indiana Rules of Trial Procedure demand exactness, and an omission can derail a petition, so hiring a lawyer is recommended. Multi-county filings, such as with Ripley County, need precise timing within the window. Lawrenceburg’s courthouse, with its riverfront legacy, embodies renewal, but professional guidance helps ensure a clean slate in Dearborn’s courts.

If you have questions about the expungement process, call the Indiana Expungement Queen today for a free consultation 317-771-8535.

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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, focusing 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:

  1. Eligibility Check: Stephanie reviews your criminal history to confirm you meet the time, payment, and clean-record requirements.
  2. Petition Preparation: Stephanie drafts a detailed petition, ensuring that the Indiana Code is complied with.
  3. 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.
  4. Prosecutor Review: The prosecutor has 30 days to object. 
  5. 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.
  6. 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 focusing 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.

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.