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 Kentland, Newton County, Indiana

Newton County, Indiana, with its county seat in Kentland, is a rural community of approximately 13,800 residents, located in northwest Indiana, about 90 miles southeast of Chicago. As part of the Chicago metropolitan area, Newton County blends agricultural traditions with proximity to urban influences, creating a unique socioeconomic landscape. The county, spanning 403 square miles, is characterized by vast farmlands, wind farms, and the scenic Kankakee River, which supports fishing and outdoor recreation. Kentland, a town of about 1,700, serves as the county’s hub, with a historic downtown centered around the Newton County Courthouse, a Classical Revival structure built in 1906, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The county’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, with corn and soybean fields dominating the landscape, alongside emerging renewable energy projects like the Indiana Crossroads Wind Farm. Newton County’s rural isolation and proximity to major highways like I-65 shape a distinctive criminal justice system—encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections—that operates with limited resources and a community-oriented focus, addressing local challenges like drug offenses tied to its highway access and agricultural setting. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in Kentland, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.

The Newton County court system is a compact framework tailored to the county’s small population and rural character. The county operates one Circuit Court and one Superior Court, both located at 201 North 3rd Street in Kentland, within the historic Newton County Courthouse, a central landmark in the town square, surrounded by local businesses and community events like the Kentland Festival. The Circuit Court, presided over by an elected judge, handles felony cases, juvenile matters, and civil disputes, including probate and family law, serving as the primary venue for serious criminal proceedings. The Superior Court, also led by an elected judge, focuses on misdemeanors, traffic violations, lower-level felonies, and small claims, processing the majority of the county’s legal matters. The courts manage common offenses like OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug possession, and theft, influenced by Newton County’s rural roads, such as U.S. Route 41, and its proximity to I-65, which facilitates drug trafficking. The county’s Drug Court program, a specialized initiative for non-violent drug offenders, combines judicial oversight with treatment and monitoring to address the county’s challenges with methamphetamine and opioid abuse, particularly in areas near Morocco and Brook. A criminal defense attorney in Kentland must navigate this dual-court system, adapting to the distinct roles of the Circuit and Superior Courts and the community-focused approach of local judges.

The Newton County Prosecutor’s Office, also housed in the Courthouse at 201 North 3rd Street, is a critical component of the criminal justice system, representing the State of Indiana in all criminal prosecutions. Led by an elected prosecuting attorney and supported by a small team, including deputy prosecutors, investigators, and a child support enforcement caseworker, the office handles a modest caseload of approximately 700 criminal cases annually, with a focus on OWI, drug offenses, and property crimes, reflecting Newton County’s rural character and agricultural economy. The office reviews complaints from law enforcement agencies, such as the Newton County Sheriff’s Department and Kentland Police Department, deciding whether to file charges. It also manages juvenile delinquency cases and operates a Child Support Enforcement Division, assisting families in a county with a significant farming population. The office’s Pretrial Diversion Program is a unique feature, allowing first-time offenders charged with minor offenses to avoid conviction by completing conditions like community service or counseling, often involving local projects like maintaining trails at Willow Slough Fish and Wildlife Area or assisting at the Newton County Fair. A victim assistance coordinator provides support to those affected by crime, emphasizing Kentland’s commitment to community welfare despite limited resources. A criminal lawyer in Kentland 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 Newton County Jail, located at 304 East Seymour Street in Kentland, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Newton County Sheriff’s Department, the jail is a modest facility with a capacity of approximately 40 inmates, designed to accommodate the county’s low crime rate and limited resources. 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 roads and community events like the Kentland Jeep Jamboree. The facility offers basic services, such as medical care and religious programs, and emphasizes rehabilitation through partnerships with local recovery groups, addressing the county’s substance abuse issues. The Sheriff’s Department maintains a strong community presence, with deputies participating in events like the Goodland Grand Prix, fostering trust with residents. Due to its small size, the jail often transfers inmates to nearby Jasper or Lake Counties when overcrowded, a common practice given Newton County’s limited infrastructure. A criminal defense lawyer in Kentland 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 Newton County Probation Department, based at 201 North 3rd Street in Kentland, 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 both the Circuit and Superior Courts, managing a caseload that includes 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 Kentland, probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Newton County Health Department and community churches, to provide addiction treatment and mental health support, addressing the county’s challenges with substance abuse. The Juvenile Probation Division works closely with South Newton School Corporation and North Newton School Corporation to support at-risk youth through mentoring and educational programs, often involving community service at local sites like the Kentland Public Library or George Ade Historic Home. Probationers may participate in community initiatives, such as volunteering at the Morocco Fall Festival or maintaining facilities at the county fairgrounds, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in Kentland 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 resource-constrained community.

Newton County Community Corrections, also operating from 201 North 3rd Street in Kentland, 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 Newton County, the program partners with local employers, such as agricultural businesses or small manufacturers in Kentland’s industrial park, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s farming-driven 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 highway access and limited law enforcement presence. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the Newton County 4-H program or cleaning up facilities at Beaver Lake. The program’s emphasis on substance abuse counseling and GPS monitoring, often ordered in lieu of jail time, 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 focus on reintegration, leveraging Newton County’s community resources, distinguishes its approach from more punitive systems in urban counties.

Newton County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as a rural county with a strong agricultural base and emerging renewable energy projects, with Kentland serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The historic Newton County Courthouse fosters collaboration among courts, prosecutors, probation, and community corrections, but the county’s limited budget requires efficient resource management. The county’s challenges with OWI and drug-related crimes, driven by its rural isolation and access to I-65, 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 Newton County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse and youth delinquency despite resource constraints. A criminal defense lawyer in Kentland must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its rural dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like the Kankakee River and the courthouse, and its economic reliance on agriculture and wind energy 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 Newton County’s distinct identity. The Circuit and Superior Courts provide a centralized 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 Kentland’s limited but dedicated resources to address issues like addiction and youth challenges. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its agricultural heritage and rural charm. For individuals facing charges in Kentland, a criminal lawyer familiar with Newton 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 Kentland, Newton County, Indiana

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Kentland, Newton 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 Kentland, Newton County, Indiana.