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 Booneville, Warrick County, Indiana

Warrick County, Indiana, anchored by its county seat of Boonville, is a vibrant community of over 63,000 residents, known for its blend of rural charm, historical significance, and proximity to the bustling city of Evansville. Situated along the Ohio River, the county boasts a diverse landscape of rolling hills, fertile farmland, and scenic waterways, with attractions like the Boonville Public Square Historic District and Scales Lake Park drawing visitors and locals alike. Boonville, a town of about 6,200 people, serves as the hub of civic and cultural activity, with its well-preserved downtown reflecting a rich history tied to figures like Abraham Lincoln, who studied law nearby in the 19th century. The county’s economy thrives on agriculture, manufacturing, and logistics, bolstered by its strategic location along major transportation routes. The criminal justice system in Warrick County, encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections, operates with a distinct local flavor, shaped by the county’s tight-knit community and its efforts to balance public safety with rehabilitation. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and unique characteristics in Boonville, optimized for search engine visibility with terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.

The Warrick County court system forms the backbone of the local criminal justice framework, handling a spectrum of cases from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. The Warrick County Circuit Court, located at One County Square in Boonville’s historic town square, oversees felony criminal matters, juvenile cases, and probate disputes. This court, housed in a stately courthouse that stands as a community landmark, is presided over by an elected judge who manages a diverse caseload reflective of the county’s rural and semi-urban dynamics. Complementing the Circuit Court are two Superior Courts, also located in the Boonville Judicial Center. Superior Court No. 1 focuses on misdemeanor cases, DUI/OWI offenses, small claims, and court-supervised programs like drug treatment and jail diversion, which are tailored to address local issues such as substance abuse. Superior Court No. 2 handles a mix of civil and criminal matters, often dealing with less severe offenses. The courts’ operations are streamlined to accommodate Warrick County’s moderate caseload, allowing for efficient case processing compared to larger urban jurisdictions. A criminal defense attorney in Boonville must navigate these courts’ specific procedures, from arraignments to trials, ensuring clients’ rights are upheld in a system that values community ties.

The Warrick County Prosecutor’s Office is a pivotal player in the criminal justice system, tasked with representing the state in criminal proceedings. Operating from the Judicial Center in Boonville, the office is led by an elected prosecuting attorney and a small team of deputy prosecutors who handle cases ranging from drug possession to violent crimes. The office places a strong emphasis on fairness, guided by a mission to uphold justice without bias, and collaborates closely with local law enforcement agencies like the Boonville Police Department and Warrick County Sheriff’s Office. Warrick County has seen a rise in drug-related offenses, particularly involving methamphetamine and prescription drugs, reflecting broader challenges in Southern Indiana. The prosecutor’s office often prioritizes plea agreements to manage caseloads, given the county’s limited resources compared to urban centers. A criminal lawyer working in Boonville engages frequently with this office, negotiating on behalf of clients to address charges ranging from DUI to domestic violence. The office also maintains a dedicated Child Support division, unique to Warrick County’s commitment to addressing family-related legal issues alongside criminal matters, ensuring holistic support for the community.

The Warrick County Jail, situated near the Judicial Center in Boonville, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Warrick County Sheriff’s Department, the jail has a capacity of approximately 120 inmates, reflecting the county’s modest size. The facility handles a range of detainees, from those charged with minor theft to more serious offenses like drug trafficking, with a particular focus on addressing the county’s drug-related challenges. The jail offers limited rehabilitation programs, such as substance abuse counseling, tailored to local needs, though its resources are constrained compared to larger facilities. Overcrowding has occasionally been an issue, prompting the county to rely on alternatives like community corrections to alleviate pressure. A criminal defense lawyer in Boonville often interacts with the jail to secure bail or arrange client meetings, navigating its procedures to ensure fair treatment. The Sheriff’s Department, which emphasizes community-oriented policing, also employs former military personnel and local residents, like Officer Casey Miller, a Boonville native, fostering a connection between the jail and the community it serves.

The Warrick County Probation Office oversees individuals placed on probation, either as an alternative to jail or following a sentence. Located near the courthouse in Boonville, the office supervises a diverse caseload, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions such as drug testing, community service, or regular check-ins. In Warrick County, probation officers focus heavily on addressing substance abuse, given the prevalence of drug-related offenses, and often collaborate with local treatment providers to offer counseling or addiction recovery programs. The office’s small staff allows for personalized supervision, with officers tailoring probation plans to individual circumstances, reflecting the county’s community-driven approach. For example, probationers may be required to participate in local initiatives, such as community clean-up projects in Boonville’s historic downtown, to foster reintegration. A defense attorney in Boonville works closely with the probation office to advocate for reasonable conditions or address violations, ensuring clients can navigate the system effectively. The office’s emphasis on rehabilitation aligns with Warrick County’s broader goal of reducing recidivism in a region where economic opportunities can be limited.

Community corrections in Warrick County offer innovative alternatives to traditional incarceration, addressing both public safety and offender rehabilitation. The Community Corrections program, based in Boonville, provides options like home detention, work release, and electronic monitoring, designed to reduce jail overcrowding and support reintegration. This program is particularly significant in Warrick County, where the rural economy and proximity to Evansville create unique challenges for offenders seeking employment or stability. The program partners with local businesses, such as manufacturing firms or agricultural operations, to facilitate work release, allowing participants to maintain jobs while serving their sentences. For instance, participants might work at facilities along the Ohio River, a key economic artery for the county. 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 community reintegration, coupled with its collaboration with local social services, distinguishes Warrick County’s approach from more punitive systems, reflecting a commitment to balancing accountability with opportunity.

Warrick County’s criminal justice system is deeply influenced by its unique context as a fast-growing yet rural county with a strong sense of community. The Boonville Judicial Center, located in the historic town square, serves as a central hub for legal proceedings, reflecting the county’s pride in its heritage. The system’s components work in tandem to address local challenges, particularly the rise in drug-related crimes, which have strained resources in a county with a smaller budget than urban neighbors like Vanderburgh County. The courts’ efficiency, the prosecutor’s office’s focus on fairness, and the jail’s community-oriented approach create a cohesive framework, while probation and community corrections emphasize rehabilitation to address local issues like addiction and economic hardship. A criminal defense lawyer in Boonville must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its resource constraints and community ties to effectively represent clients. The county’s proximity to the Ohio River and its agricultural heritage further shape its criminal justice priorities, as programs often aim to reintegrate offenders into the local economy, whether through farming or manufacturing jobs.

The interplay of these components—courts, prosecutors, jail, probation, and community corrections—creates a criminal justice system that reflects Warrick County’s unique identity. The Circuit and Superior Courts provide a structured legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach. The prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring plea deals to manage resources, while the jail serves as a temporary holding facility with efforts to address overcrowding through alternatives. Probation and community corrections work together to promote rehabilitation, leveraging local partnerships to support offenders’ reintegration. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its historical charm and economic diversity. For individuals facing charges in Boonville, a criminal lawyer familiar with Warrick County’s system is essential for navigating its unique dynamics, from the historic courthouse to the innovative community corrections program.

Warrick County Criminal Justice Resources

Below are key contacts for legal and law enforcement institutions in Warrick County, Indiana. These resources are provided to assist clients and visitors with navigating the local criminal justice system.

Warrick County Prosecutor’s Office

Led by Prosecuting Attorney Michael J. Perry, the Warrick County Prosecutor’s Office handles criminal prosecutions, child support enforcement, and victim assistance services, including the Infraction Deferral Program for minor violations like speeding.
Address: 1 County Square, Suite 210, Boonville, IN 47601
Phone: 812-897-6193
Fax: 812-897-6119
Website: warrickcounty.gov/prosecutor
Victim Assistance: Contact the office for support or to press charges in cases of domestic violence or sexual assault.
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Warrick County Circuit Court

The Circuit Court, located in the Warrick County Judicial Center, handles felony, misdemeanor, civil, and other cases. Attorneys are required to e-file in this court.
Address: 1 County Square, Suite 300, Boonville, IN 47601
Phone: 812-897-6130
Fax: 812-897-6128
Website: warrickcounty.gov/circuit-court
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Warrick County Superior Court I

Superior Court I, presided over by Judge Robert R. Aylsworth, oversees criminal, civil, and other cases. Contact for case information or scheduling.
Address: 1 County Square, Suite 310, Boonville, IN 47601
Phone: 812-897-6140
Fax: 812-897-6128
Website: warrickcounty.gov/superior-court-i
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Warrick County Superior Court II

Superior Court II, presided over by Judge Keith A. Meier, handles criminal, civil, small claims, and traffic cases. Attorneys are required to e-file.
Address: 1 County Square, Suite 320, Boonville, IN 47601
Phone: 812-897-6215
Fax: 812-897-6128
Website: warrickcounty.gov/superior-court-ii
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Warrick County Clerk of Courts

The Clerk of Courts, located in the Judicial Center, manages court records, protection orders, and payments for fines. They also handle marriage licenses and voter services.
Address: 1 County Square, Suite 200, Boonville, IN 47601
Phone: 812-897-6160
Fax: 812-897-6403
Pay Fines by Phone: 866-480-8552
Website: warrickcounty.gov/clerk
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Warrick County Sheriff’s Office and Jail

The Warrick County Sheriff’s Office, led by Sheriff Michael Wilder, manages the Security Center (Jail) and provides court security and public safety services. Contact for inmate information or sheriff services.
Address: 100 W SR 62, Boonville, IN 47601
Phone (Jail): 812-897-6096
Phone (Office): 812-897-6180
Dispatch: 812-897-1200
Fax: 812-897-3654
Website: warricksheriff.com
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Administration Office)

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

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Booneville, Warrick 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 Booneville, Warrick County, Indiana.