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 Frankfort, Clinton County, Indiana

The criminal justice system in Clinton County, Indiana, operates as a coordinated network of courts, law enforcement, and correctional services designed to uphold justice while protecting the rights of individuals. At the heart of this system are the Clinton County Circuit Court and Superior Court, both located at 320 Courthouse Square in Frankfort, Indiana. The Circuit Court, a court of general jurisdiction, handles a wide range of criminal cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, and juvenile matters. The Superior Court complements this by addressing similar cases, often focusing on specific types of offenses or expedited proceedings. Both courts work under the oversight of the Indiana Supreme Court, which sets local rules for processes like the selection of special judges and court reporter services, ensuring consistency and fairness in legal proceedings. The Clerk of the Courts, also housed at the same address, plays a critical role in maintaining court records, processing fines, and providing public access to legal documents, making it an essential resource for those interacting with the system.

The Clinton County Prosecutor’s Office, located at the same courthouse, is responsible for representing the State of Indiana in all felony and misdemeanor prosecutions arising within the county. This office works diligently to evaluate evidence, file charges when appropriate, and advocate for justice while balancing the interests of victims, defendants, and the community. For those facing charges, understanding the prosecutor’s role is crucial, as their decisions significantly impact case outcomes. The Sheriff’s Office and Jail, situated at 301 E Walnut St, Frankfort, manage pretrial detention and ensure public safety by overseeing individuals in custody. The jail serves as a temporary holding facility for those awaiting trial or serving short sentences, and its operations are closely tied to the courts and law enforcement.

Probation and Community Corrections, both based at the courthouse, offer alternatives to incarceration and support rehabilitation. The Probation Department supervises individuals sentenced to probation, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions such as regular check-ins, drug testing, or community service. Community Corrections provides additional programs, such as work release or home detention, aimed at reducing recidivism and helping individuals reintegrate into society. These services reflect Clinton County’s commitment to balancing punishment with rehabilitation, offering pathways for defendants to address underlying issues like substance abuse or mental health challenges.

Navigating this system can be daunting, particularly for those unfamiliar with legal processes. Defendants must engage with multiple agencies, from initial arrest by the Sheriff’s Office to court appearances and potential supervision by probation or community corrections. Each entity operates under Indiana’s legal framework, which emphasizes due process, fair trials, and equitable treatment. For those facing charges, securing experienced legal representation is vital to ensure their rights are protected throughout the process. The criminal justice system in Clinton County strives to maintain public safety while offering opportunities for rehabilitation, but its complexity underscores the importance of understanding its components and procedures. Whether dealing with the courts, prosecutor, jail, or correctional programs, having accurate information and legal support is essential for achieving the best possible outcome in any criminal case. This system, while structured, is not infallible, and knowledgeable advocacy can make a significant difference in addressing charges and navigating the path forward.

Clinton County Criminal Justice Resources

Navigating the criminal justice system in Clinton County, Indiana, can be complex, but having access to key contact information for local agencies can be invaluable. Below, we provide essential details for the prosecutor’s office, courts, jail, probation, and community corrections to assist you in understanding and engaging with the legal system effectively.

Prosecutor’s Office

Clinton County Prosecutor’s Office
320 Courthouse Square
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6350

Clinton County Courts

Clinton County Circuit Court
320 Courthouse Square
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6345

Clinton County Superior Court
320 Courthouse Square
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6335

Clerk of the Courts
320 Courthouse Square
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6335

Clinton County Jail

Clinton County Sheriff’s Office and Jail
301 E Walnut St
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6333

Probation Department

Clinton County Probation Department
320 Courthouse Square
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6355

Community Corrections

Clinton County Community Corrections
320 Courthouse Square
Frankfort, IN 46041
Phone: 765-659-6309

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

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Frankfort, Clinton 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 Frankfort, Clinton County, Indiana.