Benefits of Expunging Your Criminal Record
Having a criminal record can affect your life in many ways. Fortunately, Indiana recognizes that people make mistakes in life and has laws in place that allow people with criminal records to have those records expunged. The process of expunging criminal records enables individuals to seal criminal records from public view. In Indiana, records in several categories, including arrests, criminal charges, and criminal convictions, may be eligible for expungement. However, not everyone with a criminal record is eligible to have their records expunged. Indiana law details the criteria criminal records must meet to qualify for expungement. A qualified criminal defense attorney can help you determine if you are eligible to have your criminal record expunged. If you are, they can help you with the expungement process.
What Are the Benefits of Expunging a Criminal Record?
Expunging a criminal record can have many benefits. Having your criminal record expunged can benefit you in, among others, the following ways:
Restored Civil Rights
Sometimes, a criminal record can result in the loss of certain civil rights, such as the right to serve on a jury, possess firearms, hold public office, access government benefits, or vote. Expungement can help restore any civil rights you may have lost. It can promote reintegration into society and ensure you are treated fairly and equitably under the law.
More and Better Employment Opportunities
If you have a criminal record and have been on a job hunt, you have likely realized that getting a job with a criminal record can be challenging. Most employers run a background check on job applicants. A criminal record is often a barrier to securing employment. When your criminal record is expunged, employers cannot see that particular record in your background when they complete a background check. Having your criminal record expunged can allow you to present yourself to potential employers without the stigma of past mistakes, increasing your chances of finding meaningful employment.
Enhanced Housing Opportunities
Some landlords and property managers order background checks on prospective tenants. A criminal record can prevent an individual from securing a house. An expungement can help you qualify for housing opportunities that may have been previously unavailable to you due to your criminal record. It can open the door to more and better rental properties.
Access to Better Education Opportunities
A criminal record can affect a person’s ability to enroll in an educational institution. Colleges and other academic institutions conduct background checks on applicants. If someone has a criminal record, it can bar them from being accepted into an institution. Expungement can open up opportunities for further education and career advancement.
Access to Credit/Loans
Like employers, landlords, and educational institutions, banks and other financial institutions run background checks on applicants. A criminal record can bar someone from obtaining credit or a loan. Expunging your criminal record can make it easier for you to access credit or loans.
Reduced Stigma
Often, people with criminal records face stigma. People frequently have negative attitudes, beliefs, or stereotypes about people with criminal records. Expunging a criminal record can reduce stigma and prevent people from judging you based on your past mistakes.
Contact an Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you are ready to change your life, contact our Indianapolis criminal defense lawyers at Rigney Law LLC for help determining your eligibility for expungement. We can help you with the expungement process if you are eligible for expungement.
