Indianapolis Expungement Lawyers
Clearing Criminal Records and DCS Records in Indiana
A past record should not define your future. Whether you are dealing with a criminal record or a substantiated finding with the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS), that history can affect your job opportunities, housing, professional licensing, and peace of mind.
At Schembs Law, we help clients pursue expungement and record-clearing options in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana. We understand that people want a real second chance. Our firm works with clients to determine whether they may qualify for criminal expungement, DCS record expungement, or both, and we guide them through the process from start to finish.
Criminal Record Expungement in Indiana
Even an old arrest or conviction can continue to follow you long after your case is over. Indiana law allows some people to seal or expunge certain criminal records, but eligibility depends on the type of offense, the outcome of the case, and how much time has passed.
We assist clients with expungement matters involving:
- Arrest records
- Dismissed charges
- Misdemeanor convictions
- Certain felony convictions
- Juvenile records, in some situations
An expungement can make it easier to move forward with employment, housing, education, and other opportunities. In some cases, clearing a criminal record can also help resolve related legal issues, including matters involving family-related criminal charges.
DCS Record Expungement
A DCS record can create serious problems even when there was never a criminal conviction. A substantiated assessment or child abuse or neglect record may affect employment, licensing, foster care eligibility, adoption matters, and your reputation.
We help clients seek removal or expungement of eligible DCS records when appropriate. These cases can be especially important for teachers, health care workers, childcare providers, and anyone whose career may be affected by a DCS finding.
If your situation involves an open case or prior state involvement, you may also need guidance on DCS investigations or CHINS proceedings.
Clearing a DCS record can also be an important step for individuals hoping to move forward with adoption or serve as a guardian for a loved one through guardianship proceedings.
Understanding Which Type of Expungement You Need
Criminal expungement and DCS expungement are not the same process. Some clients need help with only one. Others may need to address both a criminal case record and a DCS history arising from the same allegations.
We work with clients to identify:
- What records exist
- Whether those records are criminal, administrative, or both
- Which expungement or appeal process may apply
- What documentation is needed to move forward
By looking at the full picture, we help clients avoid wasting time on the wrong process and focus on the options that may actually provide relief – especially when issues overlap with family law matters like custody, DCS involvement, or adoption.
Why Experience Matters
Record-clearing cases are rarely as simple as filling out a form. Courts and agencies follow strict rules, and even a small mistake can delay or hurt your case. Our firm understands how these matters can affect family law issues, employment concerns, and a client’s long-term future.
We take the time to evaluate the record, explain your options clearly, and pursue the most effective strategy available under Indiana law.
Talk to an Indianapolis Expungement Attorney
If you are ready to clear a criminal record, challenge a DCS history, or find out whether you qualify for expungement in Indiana, Schembs Law can help. We represent clients in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana in criminal and DCS expungement matters. Call us for a consultation at 317-643-6266 or contact us online.