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Criminal Defense & Family Law

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How to Appeal a DCS Substantiation in Indiana: Understanding the Two-Step Process

If you have received a Notice of Right to Appeal a Child Abuse or Neglect Substantiation from the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS), it means the agency has determined there is enough evidence to substantiate an allegation against you. A substantiation can have serious consequences, including being listed on Indiana’s Child Protection Index (CPI), which can affect your ability to work in certain fields and impact custody rights.

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Will an Expunged Record Show Up on a Background Check in Indiana?

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.

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Can a Criminal Charge Jeopardize Your Indiana Nursing License?

If you're a nurse in Indiana, a criminal charge—whether it results in a conviction or not—can put your license at risk. The Indiana State Board of Nursing has strict regulations for moral character and professional conduct, and even a minor offense can lead to disciplinary action.

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What Happens If You’re Charged With a Crime You Didn’t Commit in Indiana?

Being wrongfully accused of a crime is a terrifying experience. You may assume that if you're innocent, the truth will come out, and the charges will be dropped—but that’s not always the case. Many innocent people have faced wrongful convictions simply because they didn’t know how to protect themselves.

If you're falsely accused of a crime in Indiana, you must take action immediately to protect your rights. One wrong move—like speaking to police without an attorney—can jeopardize your case.

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Steps to Regain Custody After a DCS Case in Indiana

When the Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) gets involved in a family’s life, it can be stressful, emotional, and overwhelming—especially if your child has been removed from your home.

If DCS has placed your child in foster care or with another family member, you have the right to fight for reunification. But getting custody back requires proving to the court that you can provide a safe, stable, and loving home.

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What Happens If You Don’t Pay Child Support in Indiana?

Child support payments are court-ordered obligations, and failing to pay them can lead to severe legal and financial consequences in Indiana. Many parents struggling to keep up with payments don’t realize how quickly enforcement actions can escalate—including wage garnishment, license suspension, and even jail time.

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How to Prepare for a DCS Interview in Indiana: What Parents Need to Know

Expungement allows people with criminal records to clear or seal their past convictions, giving them a second chance. But many wonder, "Can an expunged record still be used against me?"

While expungement removes records from public view, there are some exceptions where the information may still appear in certain legal, employment, or government situations.

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Avoid These Common Mistakes in an Indiana Uncontested Divorce

Expungement allows people with criminal records to clear or seal their past convictions, giving them a second chance. But many wonder, "Can an expunged record still be used against me?"

While expungement removes records from public view, there are some exceptions where the information may still appear in certain legal, employment, or government situations.

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Can Expunged Records Be Used Against You in Indiana?

Expungement allows people with criminal records to clear or seal their past convictions, giving them a second chance. But many wonder, "Can an expunged record still be used against me?"

While expungement removes records from public view, there are some exceptions where the information may still appear in certain legal, employment, or government situations.

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Parental Alienation in Indiana: What Fathers Can Do

Parental alienation occurs when one parent intentionally damages or interferes with the relationship between a child and the other parent. Fathers in Indiana often face this issue when an ex-partner limits parenting time, makes false accusations, or manipulates the child’s perception of them.

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Caught with Drugs in Indiana? Understanding Possession & Trafficking Charges

Being charged with drug possession or trafficking in Indiana is a serious legal matter that can lead to fines, jail time, and long-term consequences on your record. Whether you're facing a misdemeanor possession charge or a felony drug trafficking offense, it’s critical to understand Indiana’s drug laws, penalties, and legal options.

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Contact us.

Navigating legal challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Vining Legal, we’ll listen to your story, assess your unique situation, and provide actionable guidance tailored to your needs. Through a consultation, you’ll gain clarity on the legal process, understand your options, and take proactive steps to protect your future.

Don’t wait to get the answers you deserve—book a consultation today and let us help you move forward with confidence.