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.

For additional information, please click on any of the following links:

The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Shoals, Martin County, Indiana

Martin County, Indiana, with its county seat in Shoals, is a rural community of approximately 10,000 residents, nestled in the rolling hills of southern Indiana, about 100 miles southwest of Indianapolis. Known for its natural beauty, the county is home to the East Fork of the White River and attractions like the Martin County Forest and Hindostan Falls, a historic site once bustling with 19th-century river commerce. Shoals, a small town of about 800, serves as the county’s hub, centered around the Martin County Courthouse, a modest yet functional structure built in 1876, located at 129 Main Street in the town square. The county’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, small manufacturing, and tourism, with local businesses like the Overlook Restaurant and proximity to Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center supporting livelihoods. Martin County’s rural setting and limited infrastructure along State Road 550 shape a unique criminal justice system—encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections—that emphasizes community ties while addressing challenges like drug offenses tied to its isolated geography and economic constraints. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in Shoals, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.

The Martin County court system is a streamlined framework tailored to the county’s small population and rural character. The county operates a single Circuit Court, located at 129 Main Street in Shoals, within the historic Martin County Courthouse, a central landmark near community events like the annual Shoals Catfish Festival, which draws residents to the riverfront. The Circuit Court, presided over by an elected judge, handles a broad range of cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, juvenile matters, traffic violations, and civil disputes like probate and family law. Due to the county’s limited judicial resources, the court manages a diverse caseload, processing common offenses such as OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug possession, and theft, often linked to Martin County’s rural isolation, which fosters methamphetamine production, and its proximity to larger hubs like Jasper, contributing to minor trafficking. The court also oversees a Problem-Solving Court, specifically a Drug Court, which targets non-violent drug offenders, offering rehabilitation through treatment and monitoring in collaboration with local providers like the Daviess-Martin County Community Services. This program reflects the county’s focus on addressing substance abuse, a pressing issue in communities like Loogootee and Crane. A criminal defense attorney in Shoals must navigate this single-court system, adapting to its broad jurisdiction and the community-oriented approach of its judge, who often knows local families personally.

The Martin County Prosecutor’s Office, also housed at 129 Main Street in Shoals, is a compact operation representing the State of Indiana in all criminal prosecutions. Led by an elected prosecuting attorney and supported by a small team of deputy prosecutors and administrative staff, the office handles approximately 500 criminal cases annually, with a focus on OWI, drug offenses, domestic violence, and property crimes, reflecting the county’s rural dynamics and economic challenges. The office reviews complaints from law enforcement agencies, primarily the Martin County Sheriff’s Department and Shoals Town Marshal, deciding whether to file charges. It also manages juvenile delinquency cases, enforces child support orders, and provides victim assistance, a critical service in a county with close-knit communities like Dover Hill and Burns City. The office’s Pretrial Diversion Program is a distinctive feature, allowing first-time offenders charged with minor offenses to avoid conviction by completing conditions like community service or counseling, often involving local initiatives such as volunteering at the Martin County 4-H Fair or maintaining trails at Glendale Fish and Wildlife Area. A criminal lawyer in Shoals frequently engages with this office, negotiating on behalf of clients facing charges like DUI or theft, in a system that balances accountability with fairness while respecting constitutional rights.

The Martin County Jail, located at 318 Capital Avenue in Shoals, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Martin County Sheriff’s Department, the jail is a modest facility with a capacity of approximately 50 inmates, reflecting the county’s small population and low crime rate. The jail houses pre-trial detainees and those convicted of minor offenses, with common charges including OWI, drug possession, and public intoxication, driven by the county’s rural setting and community events like the Shoals July Jubilee. The facility offers basic services like medical care and limited educational programs, with a focus on rehabilitation through partnerships with local recovery groups, addressing the county’s methamphetamine and opioid issues. The Sheriff’s Department maintains a strong community presence, with deputies participating in events like the Martin County Historical Society’s annual meeting, fostering trust with residents. Due to its limited capacity, the jail coordinates with neighboring counties like Daviess for overflow, and its work release program allows eligible inmates to maintain employment, often with local farms or businesses in Shoals’ industrial park. A criminal defense lawyer in Shoals often interacts with the jail to arrange bail or client visits, navigating its procedures in a facility that balances security with community-oriented sheriff services.

The Martin County Probation Department, based at the Courthouse at 129 Main Street in Shoals, oversees individuals placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration or following a sentence. Staffed by a small team of certified probation officers, the department serves the Circuit Court, managing a caseload that includes both adults and juveniles. The department focuses on reducing recidivism through conditions like drug testing, community service, and regular check-ins, tailored to individual needs. In Shoals, probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Martin County Community Foundation and Loogootee United Methodist Church, to provide addiction treatment and mentoring, addressing the county’s challenges with substance abuse and youth delinquency. The Juvenile Probation Division works closely with Martin County Schools, including Shoals Community School Corporation, to support at-risk youth through educational programs, often involving community service at local sites like the Martin County Museum or West Boggs Park. Probationers may participate in community initiatives, such as volunteering at the Shoals Homecoming or maintaining facilities at Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center’s recreation areas, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in Shoals works closely with the probation department to ensure clients comply with conditions or address violations, navigating a system that balances rehabilitation with accountability in a community-focused environment.

Martin County Community Corrections, also operating from 129 Main Street in Shoals, provides alternatives to traditional incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing jail overcrowding. The program offers options like home detention, electronic monitoring, and work release, allowing offenders to maintain employment or family responsibilities while serving their sentences. In Martin County, the program partners with local employers, such as small manufacturers in Loogootee or agricultural operations along State Road 550, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s agrarian economy. The Community Corrections Advisory Board ensures the program aligns with local needs, particularly addressing OWI and drug-related offenses, which are significant due to the county’s rural isolation and limited law enforcement resources. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the Martin County Humane Society or cleaning up facilities at Hoosier National Forest. The program’s emphasis on evidence-based practices, including substance abuse counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy, promotes community safety and reduces recidivism. A criminal attorney representing clients in this program must understand its specific requirements, such as monitoring protocols, to ensure compliance. The program’s integration with local resources, like the Shoals Lions Club’s community projects, distinguishes its approach from more standardized systems in urban counties.

Martin County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as a sparsely populated, rural county with a strong sense of community, with Shoals serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The historic Martin County Courthouse fosters collaboration among courts, prosecutors, probation, and community corrections, but the county’s limited budget and small staff require efficient resource management. The county’s challenges with OWI and drug-related crimes, driven by its rural isolation and proximity to larger hubs, influence the priorities of each component, from the prosecutor’s diversion programs to the jail’s rehabilitation efforts. The Drug Court and Juvenile Probation initiatives reflect Martin County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse and youth issues despite resource constraints. A criminal defense lawyer in Shoals must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its rural dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like Hindostan Falls and the Catfish Festival, and its economic reliance on agriculture and small industry shape a justice system that balances accountability with opportunities for reform.

The interplay of these components—courts, prosecutors, jail, probation, and community corrections—creates a criminal justice system that reflects Martin County’s distinct identity. The Circuit Court provides a comprehensive legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach, while the prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring diversion programs to manage resources. The jail serves as a temporary holding facility, with efforts to address capacity through community corrections, which promotes reintegration through local employment opportunities. The probation department bridges punishment and rehabilitation, leveraging Shoals’ dedicated resources to address issues like addiction and youth challenges. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its natural beauty and tight-knit communities. For individuals facing charges in Shoals, a criminal lawyer familiar with Martin County’s system is essential for navigating its unique challenges, from the historic courthouse to the innovative community corrections program.

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

Call 317-695-7700 for a free consultation with an Indiana defense attorney if you have questions about a criminal matter in Shoals, Martin 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 Shoals, Martin 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 Shoals, Martin 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 Shoals, Martin 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 Shoals, Martin County, Indiana Legal System with a Criminal Defense Attorney

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Shoals, Martin 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 Shoals, Martin County, Indiana.