Rhett Lee

Are you looking to expunge your criminal record in Indiana? Read on to learn about expungements and how much they typically cost.

What is an Expungement?

Your criminal record could restrict you from certain opportunities; but it doesn’t have to. Expungement is a term for the process of sealing criminal records. This means that after getting court approval, records of your criminal history can be sealed from public view and protect you from discrimination from potential landlords and employers.

Am I Eligible for Expungement?

The Indiana Code states that without consent from the prosecuting attorney, a conviction may not be expunged sooner than 5 years for a misdemeanor conviction and 8 years for most felony convictions. Certain high-level felonies and sex crimes have stricter requirements or complete ineligibility. Cases in which all charges were dismissed may be sealed after 1 year with no filing fee necessary. As of 2022, most dismissed charges should be automatically expunged 60 days after the dismissal. Records may be expunged earlier with consent from the prosecutor.

What crimes can be expunged?

Whether or not a criminal record can be expunged depends on a few factors:

• The nature of the record (if it is an arrest, charge, or conviction)
• The level of the offense involved
• The amount of time that has passed since the arrest, charge, or conviction
• The nature or characteristics of the petitioner

Indiana Code § 35-38-9 outlines the criminal records that are eligible for expungement. This includes arrest records, misdemeanor convictions, Class D or Level 6 felonies, and certain higher level felonies. If you have any questions about if your criminal record is eligible for expungement, contact our office for a free 30-minute consolation.

How much does an expungement in Indiana cost?

In an effort to increase pricing transparency in the legal field, our attorney has put together this pricing guide. Prices may vary in the case of great geographic distance, early expungement, or certain serious felony convictions.

Baseline pricing (Based on a single conviction)

$1200 + filing fee (with an additional $500 + filing fee per county)***

* No filing fee for dismissed cases

** Early expungements will add 10% to the cost

Your criminal record does not need to limit your future opportunities. A criminal record has the power to significantly transform your life by negatively impacting your employment prospects, housing stability, educational pursuits, child custody arrangements, and more. Thankfully, having an experienced Indiana Criminal Defense attorney by your side can alleviate the stress of having a criminal record, as they can provide guidance and ensure the protection of your freedom and future. If you have any questions about your criminal matter, or if you want to see if your record qualifies for an expungement, contact our attorney Rhett Lee now for a free consultation by calling 219-501-0422.