Will an Expunged Record Show Up on a Background Check in Indiana?
Introduction: Does Expungement Completely Erase Your Record?
Expungement offers a fresh start for individuals with a criminal record, but many people wonder: Will my expunged record still show up on a background check?
While Indiana’s expungement law allows people to seal or clear their criminal history, not all background checks are the same. Some agencies and employers may still have access to certain records, and understanding these exceptions is crucial.
This guide explains:
✔ What happens to your criminal record after expungement
✔ Who can still see an expunged record
✔ The difference between expungement and record sealing
✔ When an expunged record might still be accessible
✔ How to ensure your record is fully cleared after expungement
📞 Considering expungement? Protect your future—call Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today.
What Happens to Your Criminal Record After Expungement?
When a record is expunged in Indiana:
✔ The conviction, arrest, or charge is removed from public view.
✔ Employers, landlords, and most background checks will not show the record.
✔ You are legally allowed to state you have not been convicted of the expunged offense.
📌 TIP: Expungement does not mean complete destruction of the record—it is simply sealed from public access.
➡ Related Read: Learn how to expunge a criminal record in Indiana.
Will an Expunged Record Show Up on a Background Check?
In most cases, NO. Expunged records will not appear on:
✔ Standard employment background checks
✔ Rental and housing background screenings
✔ Most private background check services
📌 TIP: If your expungement was approved, employers should NOT be able to see your past conviction.
➡ Related Read: Learn who qualifies for expungement in Indiana.
Who Can Still See an Expunged Record?
🚨 Certain agencies and organizations can still access expunged records in specific situations.
Expunged Records Are Still Visible To:
✔ Law enforcement (police, FBI, federal agencies)
✔ Prosecutors and courts (if new criminal charges are filed)
✔ Certain government agencies (for professional licensing or security clearances)
📌 TIP: Expunged records may still be considered if you apply for a job in law enforcement, government, or certain medical fields.
Expungement vs. Record Sealing: What’s the Difference?
📜 Expungement and record sealing are often confused, but they are different legal processes.
| Feature | Expungement | Record Sealing |
|---|---|---|
| Public Access | ❌ No public access | ❌ No public access |
| Law Enforcement Access | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Court & Prosecutor Access | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Background Checks | ❌ No (in most cases) | ❌ No (but may still be seen by government agencies) |
| Effect on Legal Rights | ✅ Allows you to deny the conviction | ❌ Record is hidden but still legally exists |
📌 TIP: Expungement gives you more legal protections than sealing but does not erase your record entirely.
When Might an Expunged Record Still Be Accessible?
🚨 Certain situations may allow access to an expunged record, including:
✔ Applying for a professional license (law, healthcare, real estate, finance, etc.)
✔ Applying for a federal job or security clearance
✔ Being charged with a new crime (courts can still see past expunged records)
✔ Immigration and visa applications (expunged records may still appear in federal databases)
📌 TIP: If you are concerned about how an expunged record may impact a specific situation, consult with an attorney.
How to Ensure Your Record Is Fully Cleared After Expungement
✅ After your record is expunged, follow these steps to verify it has been properly removed:
✔ Check your record with the Indiana State Police (You can request a limited criminal history report).
✔ Run a background check on yourself through private services.
✔ Contact a lawyer if your expunged record still appears in public databases.
📌 TIP: Some private background check companies may still show old records if they were not updated—an attorney can help ensure full compliance.
📞 Need help verifying your expungement? Contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation.
Conclusion: Will an Expunged Record Show Up on a Background Check?
🚨 For most jobs, housing applications, and standard background checks—NO.
✔ Expunged records are sealed from public view and should not appear in background screenings.
✔ Law enforcement, courts, and certain government agencies may still access expunged records.
✔ If an expunged record appears on a background check, legal action may be necessary to correct the issue.
📞 Need to clear your record or verify an expungement? Contact Vining Legal LLC at (317) 759-3225 or schedule a consultation today.
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