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 Spencer, Owen County, Indiana
Spencer, the county seat of Owen County, Indiana, is a tranquil town of about 2,300 residents, nestled in the rolling hills of south-central Indiana. Owen County, with a population near 21,000, spans 388 square miles of verdant forests, limestone quarries, and winding creeks, offering a serene escape from the bustle of nearby Bloomington and Indianapolis. Established in 1818 and named for a fallen soldier of the Battle of Tippecanoe, the county blends a rugged pioneer spirit with a modern commitment to community. Spencer’s downtown, centered around a classic courthouse square, buzzes with local flavor—antique stores, a family-owned bakery, and the Tivoli Theatre, a 1928 gem hosting concerts and classic films. The county’s economy thrives on small-scale manufacturing, agriculture (think soybeans, hay, and cattle), and tourism, driven by natural treasures like McCormick’s Creek State Park, Indiana’s oldest, where waterfalls and hiking trails draw adventurers year-round. Owen County’s cultural pulse beats through events like the Apple Butter Festival, a fall tradition celebrating homemade preserves with crafts and live music, and the Owen County Fair, where 4-H kids showcase prize livestock. This blend of history, nature, and neighborly warmth shapes the backdrop for the county’s judicial system, anchored by the Owen County Courthouse, a cornerstone of local governance.
The Owen County Courthouse, located at 60 South Main Street in Spencer, is a stately limestone structure built in 1911, its Beaux-Arts design featuring a domed clock tower and elegant columns that reflect the county’s pride in its civic institutions. Housing both the Circuit Court and Superior Court, it serves as the judicial hub for Owen County’s legal matters, from property disputes to criminal cases. Judge Lori Thatcher Quillen presides over the Circuit Court, while Judge Kelsey B. Hanlon oversees the Superior Court as of 2025, together handling a diverse caseload with efficiency and care. Open Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, except for state holidays, the courthouse requires attorneys to e-file documents, a modern touch that streamlines operations in this rural setting. Governed by Indiana Supreme Court oversight for certain rules—like special judge appointments—the courts adopt local guidelines tailored to Owen County’s needs, balancing accessibility with procedural rigor. The smaller caseload, compared to urban counties, allows judges to delve deeply into cases, fostering a courtroom atmosphere that feels personal yet strictly impartial, reflective of a community where trust is paramount.
Owen County’s character is as much about its land as its people. McCormick’s Creek State Park, with its limestone canyon and Wolf Cave, offers a glimpse into the county’s geological past, while Cataract Falls, the state’s largest waterfall by volume, attracts kayakers and photographers. Agriculture remains a lifeline, with family farms dotting the landscape, their silos standing sentinel over fields of corn and alfalfa. The county’s limestone industry, once a major employer, still operates quarries that supply stone for buildings nationwide, a nod to Owen County’s role in shaping America’s infrastructure. Education unites the community, with Cloverdale and Spencer-Owen Community Schools fostering tight-knit environments where teachers often know students’ families personally. Gosport, Patricksburg, and other small towns add their own flavor—Gosport’s Lazy Days Festival celebrates local crafts, while Coal City’s volunteer fire department hosts fish fries that double as fundraisers. These threads—nature, industry, and community—create a county that values hard work and mutual support, qualities that echo in the courthouse’s measured approach to justice.
Beyond Spencer’s square, Owen County’s recreational offerings shine. Lieber State Recreation Area at Cagles Mill Lake provides camping, boating, and fishing, with bald eagles occasionally soaring overhead. The county’s backroads, lined with wildflowers in spring, invite cyclists and Sunday drivers to explore hamlets like Freedom and Arney, where general stores still serve as gossip hubs. History buffs flock to sites like the Vandalia Methodist Church, a 19th-century relic, or the Owen County Heritage and Culture Center, which preserves artifacts from the county’s founding days to its World War II contributions. The local economy, while modest, supports a low unemployment rate, with residents often commuting to Bloomington for work in tech or academia, yet returning to Owen County’s slower pace. Community groups, from the Kiwanis to the Owen County Humane Society, rally around causes like youth scholarships and pet adoptions, reinforcing a culture of giving that complements the courts’ role in resolving disputes with fairness.
One facet of the Owen County courts’ work is processing expungement petitions, a legal mechanism allowing individuals to seal certain criminal records from public view, aligning with the county’s ethos of redemption through effort. Governed by Indiana Code § 35-38-9, expungement in Owen County adheres to the Indiana Rules of Procedure, with hearings scheduled if objections arise, all within a framework that respects the community’s expectation of accountability alongside second chances.
Expungement’s one-time nature in Indiana underscores its gravity. An attorney experienced in expungement law can adeptly handle Owen County’s procedures. The process demands accuracy, as incomplete petitions can lead to delays or rejections, especially for higher-level felonies requiring victim notification.
Owen County’s judicial system operates within a broader social context. The courts’ decisions resonate in a county where reputation matters, whether among farmers trading stories at the Spencer diner or festival-goers swapping tales over apple butter. The courthouse’s limestone walls, etched with decades of history, stand as a testament to Spencer’s role as a civic anchor, its clock tower chiming reminders of order and continuity. Local traditions, like the Christmas in the Park light display or the Owen Valley Winery’s summer tastings, knit residents together, creating a community that values both celebration and responsibility. The courts reflect this duality, administering justice with an eye toward preserving social bonds while upholding legal standards.
The county’s natural and cultural assets also inform its identity. Hikers traverse the Owen-Putnam State Forest, where oak and hickory groves shelter deer and turkey, while artists find inspiration in the county’s pastoral vistas, selling paintings at the Spencer Art Gallery. Volunteerism thrives, with groups like the Owen County Community Foundation funding park benches and library programs, mirroring the courts’ role in fostering community welfare. Expungement, though a smaller part of the courts’ docket, aligns with this spirit, offering petitioners a chance to rebuild their standing in a county that respects perseverance. Judges approach these cases with care, balancing statutory requirements against the petitioner’s ties to Owen County—whether they’re a quarry worker, a fair vendor, or a park ranger.
As Spencer and Owen County look ahead, they remain tethered to their roots. New businesses, like craft coffee shops and eco-tourism ventures, signal growth, yet the courthouse endures as a steady presence, its limestone facade unmoved by time. The courts’ work, including expungement, reflects a commitment to fairness in a county that cherishes its parks, festivals, and small-town bonds. For those pursuing expungement, engaging an attorney with deep expungement experience is wise, ensuring the petition navigates the courts’ expectations and leverages Owen County’s unique judicial rhythm. In Spencer, where McCormick’s Creek flows and the courthouse clock ticks on, justice is crafted with precision, serving a county that thrives on its past while embracing its future.
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.