Expunging Your Dismissed Criminal Case: It’s a Must!
Have you previous been arrested and charged with a criminal case that was ultimately dismissed? Did you enter into, and successfully complete, a pre-trial diversion program? Perhaps you were found not guilty at a trial on your charges?
If any of these scenarios apply to you, you may not be aware that a simple name search in Indiana’s statewide case management system will reveal those past charges – even if they were dismissed. Additionally, this information is likely appearing on background checks conducted by potential employers or other screening agencies, which could be costing you opportunities just the same as if you were convicted of those same charges. For some employers, the discovery of just an arrest alone can be enough for this to disqualify you from employment. They may not even bother to check how the case ultimately decided.
Are You Eligible to Have Your Record Expunged?
The term “expungement ” is often associated solely with actual convictions, but charges that were eventually dismissed can also be expunged from your record – and it can happen sooner than you think. In Indiana, you must wait for five (5) years from the date of your conviction to expunge a misdemeanor conviction; and some felony convictions require that you wait at least eight (8) years. However, a dismissed charge can be expunged a mere one (1) year after the date of arrest if that arrest did not result in a conviction or if the conviction was overturned on appeal.
Have You Participated in a Pre-trial Diversion Program?
If you participated in a pre-trial diversion program, and completed that program, then your case is likely eligible to be expunged. Also, since criminal cases can easily stretch out for a year or more before they are disposed, even when they are dismissed, many people whose cases have been dismissed may be eligible for expungement immediately. If you have completed a pre-trial a pre-trial diversion agreement in order to secure your dismissal, it’s likely that you are eligible to have that arrest expunged today.
Let Our Experienced Attorneys Help You
No one should be haunted by charges for which they were never found guilty. And it’s possible to have those arrest records completely sealed with expungement. If you are tired of having to explain old dismissed charges to potential employers or are otherwise ready to finally move on with your life, call Keffer Hirschauer LLP today! Find out if you’re eligible to have any or all of your previous records expunged by calling (317) 857-0160.
