If you are in need of a top rated criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana, call me at 317-695-7700 or email me for a free consultation.
I was selected as one of the Top 100 Attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers Association. I have been recognized as a Top Ten Attorney in the State of Indiana by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys. I was also recognized as a Top 10 Under 40 Criminal Defense Attorney by The National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. I taught criminal law at the IU McKinney School of Law and served as a Judge pro tem. I filed the Federal Class Action lawsuit of Washington v. Marion County Prosecutor, in which Indiana’s vehicle forfeiture statute was held to be unconstitutional, under the Due Process clause of the US Constitution. I also co-authored the amicus brief for the United States Supreme Court case of Timbs v. State of Indiana, in which the United States Supreme Court held that Indiana’s attempts at forfeiture were unconstitutional under the Excessive Fines clause of the US Constitution. I filed over a dozen successful lawsuits against the Indiana Department of Corrections, challenging solitary confinement procedures under the Due Process Clause of the US Constitution. I also filed several successful lawsuits against the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department for arrests that violated the First Amendment of the US Constitution. Additionally, I have represented a fellow criminal defense attorney, a Metro Police Officer, and two former Sheriff's deputies after they were arrested and accused of illegal activity. As members of the legal community, these individuals spend a great deal of time in Court and have first hand experience with many different criminal lawyers. These individuals, having familiarity with many different criminal attorneys, were aware of the high quality of legal representation that I provide and trusted me to serve as their Indiana criminal defense lawyer. You can find additional information about my career as an Indiana criminal defense attorney and cases that I have handled on my In the News page.
I have handled thousands of cases and been lead counsel in hundreds of trials. As a criminal lawyer in Indiana, I have represented persons accused of a wide variety of crimes, ranging from murder to minor possession of alcohol. I have experience in all stages of criminal litigation, including jury trials, bench trials, suppression hearings, post-conviction relief proceedings, appellate law and oral argument, expungement and sealing of records under the Indiana Second Chance law, civil forfeiture, constitutional challenges under 42 USC 1983, hardship licenses and specialized driving permits, probation violations, and plea negotiations.
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 clients 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. My legal representation is client-centered and focused on accessibility.I was also rated one of the Top Federal Criminal Defense Lawyers In Indianapolis and one of the Best Criminal Lawyers & Attorneys in Indianapolis. If you have questions about a legal matter in Indianapolis, Beech Grove, Lawrence, Southport, or Speedway, Indiana, please do not hesitate to contact me.
What areas of criminal law does Jeff Cardella specialize in?
I provide criminal defense representation on a wide range of criminal matters and I specialize in the following areas of law:
I routinely handle alcohol offenses, such as DUI, chemical test refusals, underage drinking (minor in possession of alcohol), and public intoxication cases.
Alcohol offenses
I represent individuals with drug related charges, including possession, manufacturing, trafficking, paraphernalia, dealing and visiting or maintaining a common nuisance. We fight cases based on an inability of the state to prove actual or constructive possession and challenge illegally seized evidence through suppression.
Drug cases
I defend individuals who are accused of domestic violence, such as domestic battery, invasion of privacy, strangulation, stalking, harassment, intimidation, no contact order violations and criminal confinement.
Domestic violence
I represent people who have been accused of property crimes, such as theft, shoplifting, conversion, criminal mischief, trespassing, burglary, robbery and arson.
Property crimes
I defend individuals who have been accused of violent crimes, such as assault, battery, manslaughter, and homicide cases.
Allegations of violence
I handle sex crime cases, including public nudity, public indecency, prostitution, sexual battery, rape, child molestation, exploitation, and sex-offender registry offenses.
Sex crimes
I defend individuals who have been accused of white collar criminal activity such as forgery, fraud, money laundering, embezzlement, identity theft and tax crimes.
White collar crimes
I represent people who have been accused of breach of the peace crimes, including disorderly conduct, resisting law enforcement and neglect of a dependent.
Breach of the peace crimes
I defend individuals who have been accused of gun and weapon related offenses (which can range from low level misdemeanors to high level felonies) such as unlawful carrying, possession by a felon, pointing a firearm and criminal recklessness. My office also helps individuals who are seeking to restore their Second Amendment right to possess a firearm.
Gun charges and weapons offenses
I also represent individuals facing criminal charges related to driving, such as habitual traffic violator (HTV), driving while suspended, leaving the scene of an accident, and reckless driving.
Driving offenses
I handle expungement cases in every county in the State of Indiana, ranging from low level simple misdemeanor expungements to complex multi-county major felony expungements and requests for permission to file early expungement.
Expungement for misdemeanor and felony cases
Federal criminal charges carry much harsher penalties than cases in State Court. I represent individuals in the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals as well as the Southern and Northern District of Indiana who have Federal criminal cases or active Federal investigations.
Federal criminal charges and investigations
Navigating the Criminal Justice System and Courts with an Indianapolis Criminal Attorney
Being charged with a crime in Marion County, Indiana — especially in bustling Indianapolis — can feel daunting, yet partnering with an experienced criminal attorney can help you effectively navigate the complexities of the local courts and procedures.
The journey typically starts with an initial hearing in the Marion Superior Court criminal division, often at the state-of-the-art Community Justice Campus in Indianapolis, where judges quickly review charges and set bond or release terms.
In cases involving OWI or drug charges, motions to suppress evidence are often key — particularly when stops occur on major Indianapolis roadways or in neighborhoods like Beech Grove, Lawrence, Southport, or Speedway — and these hearings generally take place at the Marion County Courthouse on the Community Justice Campus.
Plea negotiations are frequent in Marion County, with prosecutors and defense counsel negotiating to reach resolutions for clients who do not wish to proceed to trial.
For allegations such as theft or battery, your attorney may arrange witness depositions to strengthen your defense, drawing on the unique practices of Marion Superior Courts to craft an approach suited to cases arising across Indianapolis and its surrounding areas.
Marion County provides various alternatives via community corrections and probation services, including work release, home detention, or electronic monitoring. A knowledgeable Indianapolis criminal lawyer can push for these options at sentencing to help minimize or avoid jail time.
Criminal trials in Marion County occur in the modern facilities of the Marion County Courthouse at the Community Justice Campus, where juries are drawn from Indianapolis residents and surrounding communities, delivering a balanced yet locally informed adjudication process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge for criminal defense representation in Indianapolis?
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. My fees are very reasonable (compared to other top criminal attorneys in the State of Indiana).
Does your office accept Payment Plans?
We offer flexible payment plans for many legal matters. We also accept “Buy Now Pay Later” through Affirm. (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:
How Can a Criminal Defense Attorney help me Get Criminal Charges Dismissed?
There are many ways to get criminal charges dropped in Indiana, including motions for involuntary dismissal, prosecutorial discretion, pretrial diversion programs, conditional discharge for misdemeanor marijuana possession, and specialized courts like Mental Health, Veterans, and Drug Courts. I’ve successfully handled thousands of such cases, including dismissals in Marion County. If you are seeking dismissal of a criminal case, click the following link for a more detailed explanation of the various methods to get a case dismissed or contact me for a free consultation.
Can Two Co-Defendants Who Are Arrested Together Use the Same Attorney?
In Indiana, co-defendants can share an attorney, but conflicts may arise if one implicates the other. A waiver is needed. Benefits include unified defense and cost savings, but risks include divided loyalty. If separate counsel is required, I collaborate with trusted Indianapolis attorneys for a cohesive strategy. If you and another were arrested together, click here to read more about joint representation for co-defendants.
What Should I Do If I Get Arrested in Indianapolis?
If arrested in Indianapolis, stay calm, don’t resist, exercise your right to remain silent, and request an attorney. Be cautious with jail calls as they’re recorded. Write down arrest details for your lawyer. Click the following link for a more detailed look at what you should do if you are arrested in Indiana.
What Should I Do If Someone I Know Gets Arrested?
If someone you know is arrested in Indiana, stay calm, gather details like arrest location and charges, and advise them to remain silent and request an attorney. Avoid discussing the case on recorded lines. Contact an experienced attorney like me for guidance through bail and defense options. Click the following for a complete guide on the steps to take and mistakes to avoid if someone you know has been arrested.
What Can a DUI Attorney in Lawrence Do for My OWI Charge?
A skilled DUI attorney can challenge evidence from your stop, such as field sobriety tests or breathalyzer results, and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal. In Indianapolis, I offer reasonable fees and have helped many clients avoid harsh penalties like license suspension. Contact me for a free consultation to discuss your options.
How Does a Public Intoxication Lawyer in Speedway Handle Cases?
For public intoxication charges in Marion County, I review arrest details to identify weaknesses, like lack of proof of endangerment. Diversion programs may lead to dismissal. My affordable representation focuses on protecting your record. Reach out today for personalized advice.
What Should I Expect from a Drug Possession Criminal Lawyer in Beech Grove?
A drug possession lawyer can file suppression motions if the search was unlawful and explore alternatives like Drug Court in Indianapolis. I’ve guided clients through Marion County processes with competitive fees. Let’s talk about strategies to minimize impact on your life.
How Can a Theft Defense Attorney in Southport Assist Me?
In theft cases, I examine evidence for inconsistencies and negotiate pleas or diversions. Marion County’s courts often allow first-time offenders programs. My reasonable rates ensure quality defense. Contact me to build a strong case.
What Role Does a Battery Criminal Defense Attorney Play in Indianapolis?
A battery attorney can argue self-defense or lack of intent, potentially reducing charges. In Indianapolis, I provide flexible payment options and have experience in local courts. Let’s discuss how to protect your rights.
How Can a Resisting Law Enforcement Lawyer Help in Marion County?
For resisting charges, I challenge if the officer’s commands were lawful. Marion County cases benefit from thorough investigation. My fees are competitive, and I offer free consultations to start your defense.
Where Is Your Office Located?
My office is located at 350 Massachusetts Ave #357, Indianapolis, IN 46204 in downtown across the street from Needler’s market. If you are driving to the office and need directions, please use the google map link below:
Additional Resources for the Courts and Criminal Justice System in Marion County, Indiana
The Marion County criminal justice system is primarily housed at the Community Justice Campus in Indianapolis, which integrates courts, detention, and support services for a more efficient process.
- Marion Superior Court
Address: 675 Justice Way, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Phone: 317-327-4747 - Marion County Clerk’s Office
Address: 675 Justice Way, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Phone: 317-327-4740 - Marion County Jail
Address: 695 Justice Way, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Phone: 317-327-1700 - Marion County Probation Department
Address: 3115 Southeastern Ave, Suite 100, Indianapolis, IN 46203
Phone: 317-327-4252 - Marion County Community Corrections
Address: 200 E. Washington St. Suite T522, Indianapolis, IN 46204
Phone: 317-327-1111
Contact Indianapolis, Indiana Criminal Defense Attorney Jeff Cardella for a Free Consultation
If you have questions about a criminal case in Indianapolis, Beech Grove, Lawrence, Southport, or Speedway, Indiana, call my office for a free consultation to discuss your legal matter.Phone: 317-695-7700
Email: jeffcardella@cardellalawoffice.com
Address: 350 Massachusetts Ave #357, Indianapolis, IN 46204
DISCLAIMER - The information contained on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice or as an offer to perform legal services on any subject matter. The content of this web site contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments or information. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete or current. We make no warranty, expressed or implied, about the accuracy or reliability of the information at this website or at any other website to which it is linked. Recipients of content from this site should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in the site without seeking appropriate legal advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from an Indiana Criminal Defense attorney or attorney licensed in the recipient’s state. Nothing herein is intended to create an attorney-client relationship and shall not be construed as legal advice. This is not an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship.