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 Vevay, Switzerland County, Indiana

Switzerland County, Indiana, with its county seat in Vevay, is a picturesque rural community of approximately 9,000 residents, nestled along the Ohio River in the southeastern corner of the state. Vevay, a town of about 1,600, serves as the county’s heart, known for its historic charm, riverfront views, and vibrant cultural heritage. The county’s economy is rooted in agriculture, tourism, and small businesses, with attractions like the Switzerland County Historical Museum, the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, and the annual Swiss Wine Festival, which celebrates Vevay’s Swiss heritage with wine tastings and riverboat cruises. The county’s scenic beauty, including rolling hills and the Ohio River, draws visitors, while landmarks like the Benjamin Schenck Mansion and the Vevay riverfront park reflect its 19th-century roots. Switzerland County’s small population and rural setting shape a unique criminal justice system, encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections, which operates with limited resources but a strong community focus. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in Vevay, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.

The Switzerland County court system is a compact framework designed to manage a modest caseload, reflecting the county’s small population and rural character. The county operates one Circuit Court, located in the Switzerland County Courthouse at 212 West Main Street in Vevay, a historic building constructed in 1864 with a distinctive Greek Revival design, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Circuit Court, presided over by a single elected judge, handles all criminal cases, from misdemeanors to felonies, as well as juvenile matters, civil disputes, and probate cases. Unlike larger counties, Switzerland County lacks Superior Courts, making the Circuit Court the sole judicial venue for criminal proceedings, which centralizes operations. The court’s caseload is relatively light, with common offenses including OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug possession, and property crimes, often linked to the county’s rural roads and proximity to the Ohio River, a corridor for minor trafficking. The court also oversees a Problem-Solving Court, specifically a Drug Court program, tailored to address substance abuse issues, which are a concern in Switzerland County due to its rural isolation and limited access to treatment facilities. A criminal defense attorney in Vevay must navigate this single-court system, adapting to its procedures and the judge’s preferences, which are shaped by the county’s community-oriented approach to justice.

The Switzerland County Prosecutor’s Office, also housed in the Courthouse at 212 West Main 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 staff, the office manages a limited caseload, focusing on offenses like drug possession, theft, and OWI, which are prevalent due to the county’s rural nature and its location along the Ohio River, near urban centers like Cincinnati. The prosecutor’s office also handles juvenile delinquency cases and operates a Child Support Enforcement Division, a vital service in a county with a significant working-class population. A victim advocate provides support to those affected by crime, reflecting Vevay’s emphasis on community welfare despite budget constraints. Plea agreements are common, as the small caseload and single court encourage efficient case resolution to avoid backlog. A criminal lawyer in Vevay frequently engages with this office, negotiating on behalf of clients facing charges such as DUI or minor drug offenses, in a system that prioritizes accountability while respecting constitutional rights.

The Switzerland County Jail, located at 405 Liberty Street in Vevay, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Switzerland County Sheriff’s Department, the jail is a small, aging facility with a capacity of approximately 20 inmates, reflecting the county’s low population and minimal law enforcement needs. The jail handles detainees charged with a range of offenses, from traffic violations to low-level felonies, with a focus on local issues like OWI and drug-related crimes, influenced by the county’s rural setting and riverfront access. The facility offers basic services but lacks extensive rehabilitation programs due to limited funding, though it coordinates with local faith-based groups and community organizations to provide counseling and support. Overcrowding is rare, but the small size means inmates may be transferred to neighboring counties like Jefferson or Dearborn during peak periods. The Sheriff’s Department maintains a strong community presence, with deputies participating in events like the Swiss Wine Festival, fostering trust with residents. A criminal defense lawyer in Vevay often interacts with the jail to arrange bail or client visits, navigating its procedures in a facility that balances security with the county’s community-oriented sheriff services.

The Switzerland County Probation Department, located in the Courthouse Annex at 212 West Main Street, oversees individuals placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration or following a sentence. Staffed by a small team of probation officers, the department serves the Circuit Court, managing a modest 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 Vevay, probation officers work closely with local organizations, such as the Switzerland County Health Department and community churches, to provide addiction treatment and mental health support, addressing the county’s challenges with substance abuse in a rural area with limited healthcare access. The Juvenile Probation Division is active, collaborating with Switzerland County Schools to support at-risk youth through mentoring and educational programs, often involving community service at local sites like the Vevay riverfront park. Probationers may participate in community initiatives, such as volunteering at the Swiss Wine Festival or maintaining trails at Paul Ogle Riverfront Park, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in Vevay 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.

Switzerland County Community Corrections, also based in the Courthouse Annex, provides alternatives to traditional incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing jail overcrowding. The program offers options like home detention, electronic monitoring, and community service, allowing offenders to maintain employment or family responsibilities while serving their sentences. In Switzerland County, the program partners with local employers, such as small businesses in Vevay’s historic downtown or farms in the surrounding area, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s agricultural economy. The Community Corrections Advisory Board ensures the program aligns with local needs, particularly addressing drug-related offenses and OWI, which are significant due to the county’s rural roads and limited law enforcement presence. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the Switzerland County Historical Society or cleaning up along the Ohio River. 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 Switzerland County’s community resources, distinguishes its approach from more punitive systems in urban counties.

Switzerland County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as one of Indiana’s smallest and most scenic counties, with Vevay serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The historic Courthouse, housing the Circuit Court, prosecutor’s office, and probation department, fosters collaboration but strains resources due to the county’s limited budget and staff. The county’s challenges with drug-related crimes and OWI, driven by its rural isolation and proximity to trafficking routes along the Ohio River, influence the priorities of each component, from the prosecutor’s focus on drug offenses to the jail’s coordination with community groups for support. The Drug Court and Juvenile Probation programs reflect Switzerland County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse and youth delinquency despite resource constraints. A criminal defense lawyer in Vevay must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its rural dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like the Swiss Wine Festival and the historic Courthouse, and its economic reliance on agriculture and tourism 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 Switzerland County’s distinct identity. The Circuit Court provides a centralized legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach, while the prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring plea deals to manage resources. The jail serves as a temporary holding facility, with efforts to address its small capacity through community corrections, which promotes reintegration through local employment opportunities. The probation department bridges punishment and rehabilitation, leveraging Vevay’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 riverfront beauty and historical significance. For individuals facing charges in Vevay, a criminal lawyer familiar with Switzerland 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 Vevay, Switzerland County, Indiana

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Vevay, Switzerland 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 Vevay, Switzerland County, Indiana.