If you have questions about expunging and/or sealing eviction records in Indianapolis or Indiana, please call my office at 317-985-4300.
Why having eviction records expunged in Indiana is a good idea
An eviction record can have a devastating impact on your life. It can make it difficult to find housing, get a job, and even qualify for certain government benefits. Eviction records can also stay on your public record for years, even if you were ultimately able to pay your rent.
Having your eviction record expunged can help you overcome these challenges and get your life back on track. Expungement is a legal process that removes certain types of criminal and civil records from public view. In Indiana, you can have your eviction record expunged if you meet certain requirements, such as paying all of your rent and court costs.
The benefits of having your eviction record expunged in Indiana
There are many benefits to having your eviction record expunged, including:
- Improved housing prospects: Eviction records can make it difficult to find housing, even if you have a good credit score and a steady income. Landlords often run credit checks and background checks on potential tenants, and an eviction record can be a red flag. Having your eviction record expunged can make you more competitive in the housing market.
- Increased job opportunities: Many employers also run background checks on potential employees. An eviction record can make it difficult to get a job, especially in certain industries. Having your eviction record expunged can improve your chances of getting hired for the job you want.
- Access to government benefits: Some government benefits, such as public housing and food stamps, have restrictions on people with eviction records. Having your eviction record expunged can make you eligible for these benefits.
- Peace of mind: Eviction records can be a constant source of stress and anxiety. Having your eviction record expunged can give you peace of mind knowing that you are no longer being judged for your past mistakes.
- Improve your credit score: An eviction record can negatively impact your credit score. Having your eviction record expunged can help improve your credit score, making it easier to qualify for loans and other forms of credit.
- Reduce your insurance rates: Some insurance companies, such as car insurance companies, charge higher rates to people with eviction records. Having your eviction record expunged can help reduce your insurance rates.
- Protect your privacy: Eviction records are public records, meaning that anyone can access them. Having your eviction record expunged can help protect your privacy.
How having an eviction record can have a disproportionate impact on low-income people and minorities
Eviction records can have a disproportionate impact on low-income people and minorities. This is due to a number of factors, including:
- Systemic racism: Low-income people and minorities are more likely to live in poverty and in low-income neighborhoods. These neighborhoods are often more likely to have high rates of crime and violence, which can make it difficult for residents to find and keep good jobs.
- Discrimination in the housing market: Low-income people and minorities are more likely to experience discrimination in the housing market. This can make it difficult for them to find affordable housing.
- Lack of affordable housing: There is a shortage of affordable housing in the United States. This shortage is particularly acute in low-income neighborhoods.
As a result of these factors, low-income people and minorities are more likely to be evicted than people with higher incomes.
How having an eviction record can create a cycle of poverty
An eviction record can create a cycle of poverty. This is because it can make it difficult for people to find housing, get a job, and qualify for certain government benefits.
For example, if a person has an eviction record, they may have difficulty finding housing. This is because landlords often run credit checks and background checks on potential tenants, and an eviction record can be a red flag. If a person cannot find housing, they may become homeless.
Homelessness can make it difficult to get a job. This is because employers may be reluctant to hire someone who is homeless. If a person cannot get a job, they may have difficulty paying their bills and may become evicted again.
This cycle can continue for years, making it difficult for people to break the cycle of poverty.
Conclusion
Having your eviction record expunged can be a life-changing event. It can help you overcome the challenges of finding housing, getting a job, and qualifying for certain government benefits. It can also help you protect your privacy and improve your peace of mind. If you meet the requirements for expungement, you should consider filing a petition to have your eviction record expunged.