Q: I was charged with a misdemeanor in 2001 before I was 21. I heard anything before you were 21 can be taken off your record. Is that true? If not, how long do i have to wait till it's off? A: No. Crimes committed by someone will always stay a matter of their criminal history record. Certain offenses may be "expunged" from permanent record for lesser crimes, such as truancy, runaways, etc. However, crimes (from theft, vandalisms, robbery, etc) will stay a matter of record through your whole life. Certain records and offenses that ocurred when you are a juvenile may not be shown on a general "background" check, such as those required by an employer, for example. But this information does remain a part of your police and court records.
There is no such thing as a clean slate when you turn a certain age. In addition Indiana and most other states recognize "adult" status at 18 years of age, not 21. Other crimes, even if committed by juveniles can still be prosecuted as an adult. |
