What Happens After Your Indiana Expungement Is Granted?
Zach Baber • May 27, 2025
So, your expungement in Indiana was granted. What happens now?
Whether you pursued having your records sealed in Fort Wayne or Indianapolis, what happens next should look similar.
You went through the paperwork, waited patiently, and finally received the good news. That your Indiana expungement has been granted. So, what now?
Many people think that once a judge signs the order, their record disappears instantly. But the process doesn't end there. Knowing what happens after your expungement is approved in Indiana is just as important as filing the petition correctly.
Here’s what to expect next and how to make the most of your clean slate.
1. How Long Until My Record Is Actually Cleared?
Once your expungement is granted, the court notifies relevant agencies, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Each agency (such as the Indiana State Police, Department of Corrections, county clerk, and local law enforcement) must update their records individually.
Typical timeline:
Indiana State Police: 30–60 days to update
Local court systems: varies by county
Background check companies: 60–90+ days to reflect changes
Pro tip: After 60–90 days, run your own background check to confirm your record has been updated across databases.
2. Who Can Still See My Record After Expungement in Indiana?
It depends on the type of expungement you were granted:
Misdemeanor and Most Level 6 Felony Expungements:
Your records are sealed from public view. Law enforcement, courts, education, and a few others may still access them, but employers, landlords, and the general public cannot.
Other Felony Expungements Not Covered Above:
Records are marked as expunged but not sealed. They’ll still appear in some law enforcement systems, but with a notation that they’ve been expunged.
Note: Expunged convictions cannot be used against you in most civil or criminal proceedings in Indiana.
3. Will My Mugshots or Charges Still Appear Online?
Here’s the frustrating truth: some third-party websites and news outlets may still display arrest records or mugshots, even after expungement.
That’s because these private websites don’t always update with court orders.
What you can do:
Contact sites directly to request removal (include your expungement order)
Use an online reputation management service
Hire an attorney to send removal requests if needed
4. Can I Say “I’ve Never Been Convicted” on Job Applications?
It depends. This is one reason we provide our clients with a guide on how to handle job applications and job interviews after an expungement.
In general, if asked:
You are not required to disclose expunged arrests or convictions
Employers are prohibited from asking about expunged records
5. What Else Can Expungement Help Me With?
An expunged record can open new doors, especially when it comes to:
- Employment (pass background checks and open more job opportunities)
- Housing
- College Financial Aid
- Professional Licenses
- Gun Rights Restoration (if applicable and petitioned separately)
- Peace of mind knowing your past is no longer public
6. Final Steps: What Should You Do Now?
After your Indiana expungement is granted:
- Wait 60–90 days, then run a background check
- Check your local court’s online docket to confirm updates
- Review your online presence and request content removals if needed
- Keep a certified copy of your expungement order for your records (we provide our clients with a digital, physical, and a laminated copy to last)
Need Help With An Expungement?
Located near Fort Wayne | Serving All of Indiana
Call us at 260.244.4422Visit: https://www.bradbaberatty.com/seal-your-records
Learn what happens if you miss a court date in Whitley County, Indiana, including bench warrants, no-bond risks, and next steps.
Learn how bond works in Whitley County, Indiana, including jail release, bond conditions, bond reductions, and what families should know.
Should you accept a plea deal in Indiana? Learn how plea agreements work and the factors to consider before making a decision.
Can police search your phone in Indiana? Understand warrants, consent, and what to know about your digital privacy rights.
Do you have to talk to police in Indiana? Understand your right to remain silent and what to know before answering questions.
Learn when police can search your car in Indiana, what probable cause means, and what rights you may have during traffic stops.
Learn when criminal charges may be dropped in Indiana, including misdemeanors, felonies, diversion, and dismissed cases.
Learn how long criminal cases take in Indiana, from arrest to trial or sentencing, and what can speed up or delay your case timeline.
Charged with a misdemeanor in Indiana? Learn when jail is possible, what factors matter, and alternatives that may help you avoid jail.
Arrested in Whitley County, Indiana? Learn what happens next, including jail, bond, court dates, and common mistakes to avoid.
