As an Indiana criminal defense attorney, I take a client centered approach to each case.  I treat each client the way I would want to be treated if I were in their shoes, interacting with and representing them directly. I realize that every one of my client’s is a unique person with specific goals, and not merely a file.  As an Indiana criminal lawyer, I believe it is my job to help you get through a case as painlessly as possible – without passing judgment.  I am aware that as humans, even the best of us occasionally make mistakes.  I believe that anyone in our legal system who is accused of wrongdoing deserves to have a criminal defense attorney fighting for their best interests in court and protecting their Constitutional rights.

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The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana

Columbus, the county seat of Bartholomew County, Indiana, is a dynamic city of approximately 50,000 residents, known for its architectural heritage and vibrant community. Nestled in south-central Indiana, the county is home to a mix of urban and rural areas, with Columbus celebrated for its mid-century modern buildings, designed by architects like Eero Saarinen, and landmarks such as the Bartholomew County Courthouse, a Second Empire-style structure built in 1874. The city’s economy thrives on manufacturing, with major employers like Cummins Inc., and its cultural scene is enriched by events like the Ethnic Expo and the Columbus Area Arts Council’s programs. The criminal justice system in Bartholomew County, centered in Columbus, is a coordinated network of courts, the prosecutor’s office, jail, probation department, and community corrections, designed to address the unique needs of this architecturally and economically distinct community. For those navigating this system, understanding its components and the county’s specific characteristics is crucial, often requiring the expertise of a defense attorney.

The Bartholomew County court system is a cornerstone of the criminal justice process, operating primarily out of the Bartholomew County Courthouse at 234 Washington Street in Columbus, though the Circuit Court and Juvenile Court have temporarily relocated to the Court Services Building at 555 1st Street due to ongoing renovations. The county has one Circuit Court and two Superior Courts, each with distinct roles. The Circuit Court handles serious felony cases, such as drug trafficking or violent crimes, as well as civil matters like probate and family law. Superior Court 1 focuses on misdemeanors, traffic violations, and small claims, while Superior Court 2 deals with felony cases and has a dedicated magistrate for juvenile matters. The courts also feature specialized programs, such as the Adult Drug Recovery Court, which offers rehabilitation-focused alternatives for non-violent drug offenders. The county’s manageable caseload—reflecting its mid-sized population—allows for thorough case processing, but the courts’ efficiency requires defendants to be well-prepared. A criminal attorney familiar with these courts can navigate their procedures and specialized dockets effectively.

The Bartholomew County Prosecutor’s Office, located in the courthouse, is responsible for representing the state in all felony and misdemeanor prosecutions, as well as traffic infractions and juvenile cases. Led by an elected prosecuting attorney, the office is proactive in addressing local issues, particularly drug-related crimes, which are a concern due to Columbus’s location along Interstate 65, a corridor for drug trafficking. The office also manages the Adult Protective Services Unit, serving endangered adults in Bartholomew and four neighboring counties, and the Title IV-D Child Support Office, which enforces child support orders. These responsibilities reflect the county’s role as a regional hub. The prosecutor’s office emphasizes community safety and victim support, offering resources for those affected by crimes like domestic violence or theft. A criminal lawyer working with this office must understand its priorities, such as its focus on drug offenses, to engage in effective plea negotiations or evidence challenges.

The Bartholomew County Jail, situated at 543 2nd Street in Columbus, is a key component of the county’s criminal justice system, managed by the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Department. With a capacity of approximately 300 inmates, the jail houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences for misdemeanors, or awaiting transfer to state facilities for felony convictions. The facility is modern, with updated security systems, and offers programs like substance abuse counseling and educational classes to support rehabilitation. Its proximity to the courthouse facilitates efficient inmate transport for hearings, but the jail’s urban-rural mix means it handles a diverse range of offenders, from those involved in city-based crimes to rural property offenses. The jail’s staff often collaborate with local agencies to monitor inmates’ progress, reflecting Columbus’s community-oriented approach. A criminal defense attorney can assist clients by addressing detention conditions or advocating for access to rehabilitation programs within the jail.

The Bartholomew County Court Services Department, located at the Court Services Building, oversees probation services, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions such as drug testing, community service, or restitution. Probation officers in Bartholomew County prepare presentence investigation reports for adult defendants facing potential imprisonment exceeding one year and social histories for juvenile offenders. The department is known for its evidence-based approach, incorporating “What Works” training since 2001, which emphasizes programs proven to reduce recidivism. Officers conduct home visits and drug screens, often in partnership with the Columbus Police Department or Indiana State Police, to monitor compliance. The department’s focus on rehabilitation aligns with Columbus’s progressive community values, and a criminal defense lawyer can help clients navigate probation requirements, addressing any compliance challenges that arise.

Bartholomew County’s Community Corrections Department, established in 1986 with state funding, provides alternatives to incarceration, such as home detention, work release, and electronic monitoring. Based in Columbus, the program is tailored to the county’s needs, allowing offenders to maintain employment at local businesses like Cummins or Toyota Material Handling while serving sentences. The Residential Component, introduced in 2009, offers a structured, therapeutic environment for high-risk offenders, combining treatment with correctional oversight. The Mental Health Diversion program, funded by a JABG grant since 2010, supports offenders with mental health needs, a priority in a county with a growing focus on mental health resources. These programs reflect Bartholomew County’s commitment to reducing recidivism while supporting its workforce-driven economy. A criminal attorney can assist clients in exploring eligibility for these alternatives, particularly for non-violent offenses.

Bartholomew County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique blend of urban sophistication and rural roots. Columbus’s architectural fame attracts tourists and professionals, but its manufacturing base and proximity to Interstate 65 contribute to specific crime patterns, such as drug trafficking and property crimes tied to economic disparities. The county’s diverse population, including a significant Hispanic community and workers from nearby rural areas, influences case types, with courts handling everything from DUI cases in urban Columbus to agricultural theft in outlying areas like Hope or Hartsville. The system’s progressive initiatives, like the Adult Drug Recovery Court and Mental Health Diversion program, reflect the county’s forward-thinking approach, driven by its educated workforce and community engagement. A criminal lawyer with local knowledge can tailor strategies to these dynamics, addressing the specific context of Bartholomew County.

The county’s economic and cultural landscape further defines its criminal justice system. Columbus’s economy, anchored by Cummins Inc. and other manufacturing giants, supports a stable middle class, but economic challenges in certain neighborhoods contribute to property crimes and drug offenses. The city’s cultural vibrancy, seen in events like the Ethnic Expo, fosters a diverse community, which can lead to cases involving language barriers or cultural misunderstandings. The rural areas of Bartholomew County, with their agricultural focus, see unique cases like livestock theft or disputes over farm equipment, reflecting the county’s farming heritage. The criminal justice system adapts to these factors, balancing enforcement with rehabilitation to support the community’s economic and social goals.

Navigating the criminal justice system in Bartholomew County requires understanding its interconnected components and the county’s distinct context. From arrests handled by the Columbus Police Department or Sheriff’s Office, often in areas like the downtown corridor or along State Road 46, to the completion of probation or community corrections, each stage involves specific procedures. The courts’ efficiency, the prosecutor’s focus on drug crimes, and the availability of innovative programs like the Residential Component all reflect Columbus’s commitment to addressing local challenges. A criminal defense attorney familiar with these elements can guide defendants through the process, from pretrial hearings in Superior Court to compliance with community corrections terms.

For residents of Columbus and Bartholomew County, facing criminal charges can be challenging in a community where social and professional ties are significant. A conviction, whether for a misdemeanor like public intoxication or a felony like drug possession, can impact employment at major employers or participation in community events like the Columbus Scottish Festival. The criminal justice system in Bartholomew County is structured to address these challenges, offering programs that prioritize rehabilitation while maintaining accountability. A criminal defense lawyer with knowledge of Columbus’s system can assist defendants in navigating its complexities, ensuring they understand their options and responsibilities within the county’s framework.

In conclusion, the criminal justice system in Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana, is a well-integrated network of courts, prosecutors, jail, probation, and community corrections, designed to serve a community known for its architectural heritage and economic vitality. The historic courthouse, proactive prosecutor’s office, and innovative programs like the Mental Health Diversion initiative reflect the county’s commitment to justice and rehabilitation. Shaped by Columbus’s unique blend of urban and rural dynamics, the system addresses specific challenges like drug trafficking and cultural diversity. For those facing charges, understanding the local courts, prosecutor priorities, and rehabilitation options is essential. A criminal defense attorney with experience in Bartholomew County can provide guidance through this system, addressing the specific needs of defendants in a community where justice is both progressive and community-focused.

Call 317-695-7700 for a Free Consultation with a Criminal Defense Attorney about Your Case in Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana

Call 317-695-7700 for a free consultation with an Indiana defense attorney if you have questions about a criminal matter in Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana.  I have practiced criminal defense my entire career, have taught criminal law at the IU School of Law, and have personally handled thousands of cases. I provide reasonably priced criminal defense representation (compared to other top criminal attorneys in the State) and practice in the entire State of Indiana. I look forward to hearing from you.

Misdemeanor Criminal Defense Attorney for Columbus, Bartholomew, County, Indiana

There are 3 levels of misdemeanor cases in Indiana which are A misdemeanor, B misdemeanor, and C misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is the most serious while C misdemeanor is the least serious. A misdemeanor cases carry a minimum sentence of zero days and a maximum sentence of 365 days. B misdemeanor cases carry a minimum sentence of zero days and a maximum sentence of 180 days. C misdemeanor cases carry a minimum sentence of zero days and a maximum sentence of 60 days. Misdemeanor cases carry lesser penalties than felony cases, but the conviction itself can still make it more difficult to obtain employment, so it is important not to brush off a misdemeanor criminal charge.

Level 6 Felony Criminal Defense Attorney for Columbus, Bartholomew, County, Indiana

A level 6 felony carries a potential penalty range of ½ a year to 2.5 years with 1 year being the presumptive sentence. While a level 6 felony is a low level felony, being a convicted felon can carry serious penalties beyond the sentence, including the loss of legal rights such as the right to possess a firearm. Being a convicted felon can also ake it more difficult to obtain employment. Some (but not all) level 6 felony cases are eligible for alternate misdemeanor sentencing, which is often called AMS for short. AMS allows what would otherwise be a low level felony to be converted to a misdemeanor. AMS is most often addressed at the time of sentencing. However, if AMS is not brought up at the time of sentencing, AMS can still be requested at a later point in time. AMS generally can be ordered (1) at the front – meaning that on the day of sentencing, the conviction will go on the defendant’s record as a misdemeanor, or (2) at the back – meaning that the conviction will begin as a felony but can change if the defendant successfully completes the sentence. It is important to remember that when AMS is ordered at the back, if there are violations of probation, it is likely that the conviction will stay a felony.

Major Felony Criminal Defense Attorney for Columbus, Bartholomew, County, Indiana

Felony cases that are level 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are considered major felony cases. Murder cases are the most serious major felony charge. A level 5 felony carries a potential penalty range of 1 year to 6 years with 3 years being the presumptive sentence. A level 4 carries a potential penalty range of 2 years to 12 years with 6 years being the presumptive sentence. A level 3 felony carries a potential penalty range of 3 years to 16 years with 9 years being the presumptive sentence. A level 2 felony carries a potential penalty range of 10 years to 30 years with 17.5 years being the presumptive sentence. A level 1 felony carries a potential penalty range of 20 years to 40 years with 30 years being the presumptive sentence. A murder case carries a potential penalty range of 45 years to 65 years with 55 years being the presumptive sentence.

Navigating the Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana Legal System with a Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana, the process generally starts with a summons or arrest and can end with charges being dropped or a conviction through a guilty plea or trial. Without a good defense attorney, the process can be confusing and stressful and put your liberty at jeopardy.  In Indiana, misdemeanors can carry up to a year of incarceration and felonies can result in prison time for longer periods of time.  Even a short period of incarceration can cause an individual major life problems, such as loss of employment.

Convictions also have long-lasting effects, like court-mandated supervision, fines, drug treatment programs, community service, and more. Plus, the stigma of a conviction makes it more difficult to tough to find a job, get an education, access public benefits, or find housing.

When facing charges in Indiana, your first move should be to call a good and knowledgeable criminal defense attorney.

Jeff Cardella has helped thousands of clients dealing with felonies and misdemeanors in Indiana. Jeff Cardella provides solid legal representation and is committed to defending your rights.

Cases generally begin with an investigation. Someone makes a complaint with the police or an individual might be arrested at the scene.  When an on scene arrest does not occur, law enforcement might ask a judge for a warrant based on probable cause. If police think you committed a crime, they can seek a Judicial arrest warrant. If they suspect you have contraband or evidence in your place or vehicle, they can request  a search warrant, which might lead to your arrest.

If an arrest occurs, the individual is taken to the jail or will receive a summons telling them when to appear in court for the initial hearing. During processing, law enforcement will obtain fingerprints and take the defendants picture.  If incarcerated, the defendant will generally have a bond review hearing to determine how much bond must be posted in order to be released. The defendant might merely be ordered to re-appear in Court or might be supervised by Pretrial Services (which could mean drug tests, reporting in person or by phone, GPS ankle monitoring, and/or no contact orders).

At the initial hearing, charges will be read and a plea of not guilty is entered on the defendant’s behalf.

As the case progresses, there will be hearings before the Judge.  If there is a failure to appear, a warrant is likely to be issued, which can result in being incarcerated until trial.  The prosecutor might make plea or diversion offers at any status hearing. Deferred Prosecution is an agreement where the prosecutor agrees to dismiss your case if you do certain things (pay money, community service, classes, etc).  A plea offer is a deal negotiated between the prosecutor and you that might result in dismissal of some charges or a lighter sentence.

Any motions to suppress evidence based on Constitutional violations will likely be heard at these hearings.

If there is no diversion, dismissal, or plea, then the case will generally proceed to trial. 

Before trial, your defense attorney plans a defense strategy. The trial starts with opening statements from the prosecutor and your defense attorney. The prosecutor presents their case, calling witnesses and questioning them. Your attorney is allowed to cross-examine each witness.  After the state rests, the Defense Attorney will often move for Judgement on the Evidence, arguing that the case should be dismissed for lack of evidence.  The defense then has the opportunity to present evidence (although a defendant has a right to remain silent).   

After each side makes closing arguments, the Jury will decide if you are guilty or not guilty.  If convicted, the judge decides your sentence, considering things like the severity of the crime and your criminal history.

Federal Criminal Defense Attorney in Indiana

Federal cases generally carry far harsher penalties as compared with State cases. It is not rare that a charge that would result in probation in State Court could result in over a decade of prison in Federal Court. If you are being charge with a Federal case it is important to take the case very seriously as many federal cases result in significant prison time. It is also important to be mindful that Federal cases are far more time consuming for the attorney and legal representation can be very expensive. For more information about representation in Federal Court, click here.

Miscellaneous Information

For questions about specific areas of Indiana criminal law, click here.   Additional information about my office is available on the home page and the in the news page.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much do you charge for criminal defense representation in Indiana?

For the majority of cases, I charge a flat fee.  This fee varies from case to case and can be affected by many factors, such as the level of the charges, the likelihood of a trial or litigation, the amount of trial preparation that is anticipated, and the actual county.  I am of the opinion that my fees are very reasonable, compared to other top criminal attorneys in the State of Indiana.  However, for people who are looking for bargain basement pricing or low end discount legal services, there might be better options.  There are many alternative lawyers for those who are looking for attorneys at the lower end of the price spectrum.  If you realistically know that you are looking for options at the lower end of the price spectrum, it may be a good idea to contact attorneys that have internet advertisements, as an attorney who is willing to pay to provide a free consultation is generally in need of business and might offer lower fees.

• Does your office accept Payment Plans?

We accept flexible payment plans for many legal matters.  Our office allows for “Buy Now Pay Later” through Affirm.  If you use the “Buy Now Pay Later” option, it is important to remember that qualification for a loan goes through Affirm and our office has no ability to approve eligibility.  Using “Buy Now Pay Later” is similar to using a credit card in that the repayment plan would be between you and Affirm.  In order to learn more about the “Buy Now Pay Later” option, click this option on the payment page of my website:

• Where do you practice?

I handle cases throughout all of Indiana, including the Federal District Courts, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and Columbus, Bartholomew County, Indiana.