One of the most common questions we hear is:

“Can I get a job with a misdemeanor or felony in Indiana?”

The short answer: Yes, but it depends.


What shows up?

• Felony convictions
• Misdemeanor convictions
• Arrests that led to charges
• Sometimes even dismissed cases (though they carry less weight)

How a Criminal Record Affects Different Types of Jobs

Jobs in healthcare, education, law enforcement, and government often have stricter requirements, especially for felonies.

But many employers in trades, hospitality, food service, construction, and logistics are more flexible, especially for misdemeanors or older convictions.

In Indiana, some jobs are legally off-limits for people with certain convictions (e.g., working with vulnerable populations), but most hiring decisions are up to the employer.

Can I Clean Up My Record?

If your record is eligible, expungement can help:

• Remove the conviction from most public background checks
• Allow you to legally answer “no” when asked about a past conviction
• Improve your chances of getting hired

Tips for Job Seekers With a Record

• Be honest when asked — don’t lie on applications.
• Explain what’s changed and what you’ve done since the conviction.
• Focus on skills, references, and reliability.
• Consider reaching out to reentry programs or career coaches who specialize in helping people with past convictions.
• If eligible, consider filing for expungement to improve future opportunities.

Bottom Line: You’re More Than a Record

Need help understanding your record or expungement options?
This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.