Two significant changes in state law allows non-violent offenders to have their criminal records sealed as well as gives courts the power to convert a Class D felony conviction to a Class A misdemeanor upon petition.

The new Indiana laws, which went into effect last July, aim to help ex-offenders find work.

“Every legislative session, new laws pass that directly impact the lives of Hoosiers,” said Jamal L. Smith, Executive Director of the Indiana Civil Rights Commission. “It’s important that we share this information with people so that everyone has a clear understanding of their rights. These laws, specifically, have gone relatively unnoticed.”

To have criminal records sealed ex-offenders must wait a minimum of eight years following the completion of their sentence. Likewise, ex-offenders must wait a minimum of three years following the completion of their sentence to request a conversion of a Class D felony conviction to a Class A misdemeanor.

With both laws, sex or violent offenders, persons convicted of a Class D felony that resulted in bodily injury to another person, or individuals still serving sentences related to criminal activity are not eligible to submit a petition.

Contact Indiana Legal Services or a private attorney for more information.

The Indiana Civil Rights Commission enforces the Indiana civil rights laws and provides education and services to the public in an effort to ensure equal opportunity for all Hoosiers and visitors to the State of Indiana.

For more information visit the Indiana Civil Rights Commission website.