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 South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana

St. Joseph County, Indiana, with its county seat in South Bend, is a bustling urban and suburban community of approximately 270,000 residents, located in the northern part of the state near the Michigan border. South Bend, a city of about 100,000, serves as the county’s economic and cultural hub, home to the University of Notre Dame, which drives significant academic, athletic, and economic activity. The county’s economy is diverse, encompassing manufacturing, education, healthcare, and retail, with landmarks like the Notre Dame Stadium, the Studebaker National Museum, and the South Bend Riverwalk showcasing its vibrant heritage. St. Joseph County’s proximity to Lake Michigan and its role as a regional transportation hub, with major highways like I-80/90, contribute to its dynamic character. The criminal justice system in St. Joseph County, including the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections, operates on a larger scale than many Indiana counties, shaped by South Bend’s urban challenges, diverse population, and innovative justice programs. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in South Bend, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.

The St. Joseph County court system is a robust framework designed to handle a substantial caseload, reflecting the county’s large population and urban complexity. The county operates one Circuit Court and three Superior Courts, all primarily located in the County-City Building at 227 West Jefferson Boulevard in South Bend, though some proceedings occur at the St. Joseph County Courthouse at 101 South Main Street, a historic 1855 building renovated for modern use. The Circuit Court, presided over by an elected judge, handles major felony cases, juvenile matters, and civil disputes, including probate and family law, serving as the primary venue for serious criminal proceedings. The Superior Courts, each led by an elected judge, focus on misdemeanors, traffic violations, lower-level felonies, and civil cases, with one court dedicated to the Traffic and Misdemeanor Division, which processes a high volume of cases due to South Bend’s busy roadways. The county also operates a Probate Court, located at the Thomas N. Frederick Juvenile Justice Center at 1000 South Michigan Street, which oversees juvenile delinquency cases and adoptions. St. Joseph County’s courts offer specialized programs, such as the Veterans Treatment Court and the Drug Treatment Court, addressing issues like substance abuse and mental health among veterans and other offenders, tailored to the county’s diverse population and urban challenges. A criminal defense attorney in South Bend must navigate this multi-court system, adapting to the distinct roles of the Circuit, Superior, and Probate Courts and the community-focused approach of local judges.

The St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office, also based in the County-City Building at 227 West Jefferson Boulevard, is a key 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 team of deputy prosecutors, the office manages a significant caseload, reflecting South Bend’s urban environment and higher crime rates compared to rural counties. Common offenses include OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug trafficking, robbery, and violent crimes, driven by the county’s role as a transportation hub and its socio-economic diversity. The office has specialized units, such as the Special Victims Unit for domestic violence and sexual assault cases, and the Child Support Division, which serves thousands of families in a county with a mix of urban and suburban communities. A Victim-Witness Assistance Program provides dedicated support to those affected by crime, emphasizing South Bend’s commitment to community welfare. Plea agreements are frequently utilized to manage the high caseload, leveraging the office’s resources and the courts’ capacity. A criminal lawyer in South Bend frequently engages with this office, negotiating on behalf of clients facing charges like DUI or drug offenses, in a system that balances accountability with fairness while respecting constitutional rights.

The St. Joseph County Jail, located at 401 West Sample Street in South Bend, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department, the jail is a large facility with a capacity of approximately 700 inmates, designed to accommodate the county’s law enforcement needs. The jail houses pre-trial detainees and those convicted of minor offenses, with common charges including OWI, drug possession, and theft, reflecting South Bend’s urban challenges and transient population along major highways. The facility offers services like medical care, mental health counseling, and educational programs, with partnerships like the Notre Dame Legal Aid Clinic providing legal support to inmates. The Sheriff’s Department is deeply engaged in the community, with deputies participating in events like the South Bend Chocolate Festival, fostering trust with residents. Overcrowding is a periodic issue, managed through coordination with community corrections and transfers to nearby counties like Elkhart when necessary. A criminal defense lawyer in South Bend 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 St. Joseph County Probation Department, headquartered in the County-City Building at 227 West Jefferson Boulevard, oversees individuals placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration or following a sentence. Staffed by a large team of certified probation officers, the department serves the Circuit, Superior, and Probate Courts, managing a substantial 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 South Bend, probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Center for the Homeless and the St. Joseph County Health Department, to provide addiction treatment and mental health support, addressing the county’s challenges with opioid abuse and urban poverty. The Juvenile Probation Division, based at the Juvenile Justice Center, is particularly active, working with South Bend Community Schools and Notre Dame’s youth programs to support at-risk youth through mentoring and educational initiatives, often involving community service at local sites like the Riverwalk. Probationers may participate in community projects, such as volunteering at the Studebaker Museum or maintaining facilities at Potawatomi Park, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in South Bend 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-rich but high-demand community.

St. Joseph County Community Corrections, located at 116 South Taylor Street in South Bend, provides alternatives to traditional incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing jail overcrowding. The program offers options like home detention, electronic monitoring, work release, and day reporting, allowing offenders to maintain employment or family responsibilities while serving their sentences. In St. Joseph County, the program partners with local employers, such as manufacturing firms like AM General or businesses near Notre Dame, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s industrial and academic economy. The Community Corrections Advisory Board ensures the program aligns with local needs, particularly addressing OWI, drug offenses, and non-violent crimes, which are significant due to South Bend’s urban density and highway access. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the South Bend Heritage Foundation or cleaning up trails at Rum Village Park. The program’s Day Reporting Center, unique to the county, provides structured supervision with educational and vocational training, emphasizing rehabilitation. A criminal attorney representing clients in this program must understand its specific requirements, such as GPS monitoring protocols, to ensure compliance. The program’s focus on reintegration, leveraging South Bend’s economic and community resources, distinguishes its approach from more punitive systems in smaller counties.

St. Joseph County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as one of Indiana’s most populous and economically diverse counties, with South Bend serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The County-City Building and Juvenile Justice Center foster collaboration among courts, prosecutors, and probation, but the high caseload strains resources, requiring efficient case management. The county’s challenges with drug trafficking, OWI, and violent crimes, driven by its urban setting and transportation networks, influence the priorities of each component, from the prosecutor’s specialized units to the jail’s counseling programs. The Veterans and Drug Treatment Courts, along with the Juvenile Justice Center’s comprehensive services, reflect St. Joseph County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse, mental health, and youth delinquency in a community with significant resources but complex needs. A criminal defense lawyer in South Bend must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its urban dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like Notre Dame and the Riverwalk, and its economic vibrancy 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 St. Joseph County’s distinct identity. The Circuit, Superior, and Probate Courts provide a structured legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach, while the prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring plea deals to manage volume. The jail serves as a temporary holding facility, with efforts to address overcrowding through community corrections, which promotes reintegration through local employment and training opportunities. The probation department bridges punishment and rehabilitation, leveraging South Bend’s resources to address issues like addiction and youth challenges. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its academic prestige and urban vitality. For individuals facing charges in South Bend, a criminal lawyer familiar with St. Joseph County’s system is essential for navigating its unique challenges, from the bustling County-City Building to the innovative community corrections program.

St. Joseph County Criminal Justice Contacts

Below are key contact details for criminal justice offices in St. Joseph County, Indiana, to assist with legal inquiries and case-related needs.

St. Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office

• • Address: 227 West Jefferson Boulevard, Suite 722, South Bend, IN 46601
  • Phone: (574) 235-8200
  • Website: stjoepros.org

St. Joseph County Circuit and Superior Courts

• • Address: 101 South Main Street, South Bend, IN 46601
  • Circuit Court Phone: (574) 235-9650
  • Superior Court Phone: (574) 235-9531
  • Website: sjcindiana.gov

St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Office and Jail

• • Address: 401 Lincolnway West, South Bend, IN 46601
  • Sheriff’s Office Phone: (574) 245-9000
  • Jail Phone: (574) 245-6500
  • Website: sjcpd.org

St. Joseph County Probation Department

• • Address: 227 West Jefferson Boulevard, South Bend, IN 46601
  • Phone: (574) 235-9677
  • Website: sjcindiana.gov

St. Joseph County Community Corrections (DuComb Center)

• • Address: 4161 Lathrop Street, South Bend, IN 46619
  • Phone: (574) 251-6200
  • Website: sjcindiana.gov

Call 317-695-7700 for a Free Consultation with a Criminal Defense Attorney about Your Case in South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in South Bend, St. Joseph 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 South Bend, St. Joseph County, Indiana.