If someone you know has been arrested in Indiana, you need to act quickly to protect their rights and ensure the best outcome. Contact Jeff Cardella at 317-695-7700 or via email for a free consultation. With nearly two decades of experience as an Indiana criminal defense attorney, Jeff Cardella can guide you through what to do after an arrest.
Why Quick Action Matters If Someone You Know Is Arrested in Indiana
If someone you know gets arrested, it can feel overwhelming, but acting swiftly and correctly is crucial. In Indiana, the legal process moves fast, with arraignments often happening within 24-48 hours. Mistakes like discussing the case or delaying legal help can hurt their defense. Jeff Cardella’s experience as a criminal law adjunct professor at the Indiana University School of Law and as a Judge pro tem ensures you get expert guidance during this critical time.
Steps You Should Take If Someone You Know Is Arrested
Here are the essential steps you should follow to protect their rights and build a strong defense:
- Stay Calm and Gather Information: Panicking can lead to mistakes. You need to find out where the arrest happened, which jail they’re in, and any charges filed. This helps your attorney act effectively.
- Advise Silence and Legal Counsel: Tell them to invoke their Miranda rights—remain silent and request an attorney. Jail phones are often recorded, and anything said could be used against them.
- Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney: Reach out to an experienced lawyer right away. Jeff Cardella offers free consultations to discuss the case, bail options, and next steps. You can call him at 317-695-7700.
- Explore Bail Options: In Indiana, bail may involve a cash bond or a bail bondsman. You can work with Jeff Cardella to secure their release as soon as possible.
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all interactions, including names of officers, times, and dates. This information can be vital for their defense.
- Provide Support, Not Interference: Offer emotional support but avoid discussing case details. The attorney should handle all legal communications to avoid complications.
Common Mistakes You Should Avoid If Someone You Know Is Arrested
To protect their case, you should avoid these pitfalls:
- Talking about the case on recorded jail phones or social media.
- Trying to negotiate with police or prosecutors without an attorney.
- Delaying contact with a lawyer, which can limit defense options.
- Assuming the charges will resolve themselves without legal help.
Frequently Asked Questions: What to Do If Someone You Know Gets Arrested in Indiana
Here are answers to common questions you might have about handling an arrest in Indiana:
What should you do immediately if someone you know gets arrested in Indiana?
Stay calm and gather information about the arrest location, jail, and charges. Advise them to remain silent and request an attorney right away. Avoid discussing details, as communications may be recorded.
Do you need to contact a lawyer right after someone you know is arrested in Indiana?
Yes, you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. They can guide you through bail, protect rights, and build a defense strategy. Call Jeff Cardella at 317-695-7700 for a free consultation.
How does the bail process work in Indiana if someone you know is arrested?
Bail is set at the initial hearing, typically within 48 hours. Options include cash bond, surety bond via a bondsman, or release on recognizance. An attorney can help you argue for lower bail or alternative conditions.
What are the rights of someone you know during an arrest in Indiana?
They have Miranda rights: the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and protection from self-incrimination. They cannot be held longer than 48-72 hours without charges.
Can you talk to someone you know about their case after their arrest?
No, you should avoid discussing case details over phone or in person at the jail, as calls are recorded and visits may be monitored. Let the attorney handle all communications.
What happens after the initial hearing if someone you know is arrested in Indiana?
The judge sets bail and conditions. If released, they must comply with all terms. The case proceeds to pre-trial conferences, discovery, and potentially trial. Your attorney will represent them throughout.
How long can someone you know be held without charges in Indiana?
In Indiana, they must be charged within 48-72 hours of arrest or released. If detained longer without charges, you should contact an attorney to file for release.
Contact Jeff Cardella for a Free Consultation
Contact Jeff Cardella directly for a free consultation.
Phone: 317-695-7700
Email: jeffcardella@cardellalawoffice.com
Address: 350 Massachusetts Ave #357, Indianapolis, IN 46204
I handle criminal defense cases throughout the entire State of Indiana, including:
- Indianapolis, Indiana
- Noblesville, Carmel & Fishers, Hamilton County, Indiana
- Danville, Plainfield & Avon, Hendricks County, Indiana
- Franklin & Greenwood, Johnson County, Indiana
- Muncie, Delaware County, Indiana
- Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana
- Anderson, Madison County, Indiana
- Lebanon & Zionsville, Boone County, Indiana
- Shelbyville, Shelby County, Indiana
- Martinsville, Mooresville & Morgantown, Morgan County, Indiana