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1. Does my juvenile record get erased once I turn 18?

No. It is a myth that once you turn 18 your juvenile record gets erased. Although juvenile records are not accessible by the public, they still exist and can be accessed under certain circumstances. Recent changes in legislation has made it possible for certain juvenile cases to be automatically expunged.  IC 31-39-8-3 states that once a 'child' reaches nineteen (19) years of age, or one (1) year after the date on when the juvenile court discharges the 'child', whichever is later, the court shall automatically expunge certain juvenile offenses within sixty (60) days.  This statue is only applicable for adjudications occurring AFTER 6/30/21.

Matters involving handgun/weapons offenses, regardless of offense level, are excluded under this statute and DO NOT qualify for an automatic expungement.  Additionally, any adjudication that involves a felony is also excluded from the automatic expungement statute.

Any adjudication prior to 6/30/21, any adjudication involving a felony, or, one that involves an excluded offense under the statute after 6/30/21 must go through the expungement process outlined on this site.

2. I was in trouble as a juvenile, what do I put on a job application if asked about criminal history?

Pay careful attention to the actual question on the application. If it asks 'Have you ever been convicted of a crime?' the answer is "no". You cannot be convicted of a crime as a juvenile. You are simply adjudicated a delinquent child. However, some employers may ask if you've ever been arrested. We encourage honesty with prospective employers.

3. Can my juvenile history jeopardize military enlistment?

Absolutely. Any felony on your juvenile record, whether it was referred to formal court or handled informally, may disqualify you from military enlistment. It is strongly suggested that you take the necessary steps to apply for your juvenile record to be expunged prior to starting the enlistment process with a military recruiter.

4. If I'm placed on Probation, how long will I be on?

It varies. Formal probation can be from 3-6 months. However, the length of time you're on probation is directly related to your compliance with your probation and how quickly you can complete your court ordered terms. If you're on an Informal Adjustment, those last 3-6 months and can only be extended up to 9 months with a court order. Again, how long you're on probation is entirely up to you.