5 Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Indianapolis, Indiana

People often ask me “Who are the 5 best criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana.” I obviously have a bias in my recommendations (especially towards myself and attorneys I work closely with). But I understand that I might not be a perfect match for every client.  Some clients may be looking for an attorney who has a different temperament or a different price range.  Some clients might be seeking an aggressive litigator while others may be seeking a compassionate hand holder.

Some attorneys will be a better match for different clients and only you can know what characteristics are important to you. When searching for an attorney, it’s essential to look for certain qualities to ensure you find a good match for your needs. A good attorney should have experience and expertise in the specific area of law related to your case. They should have a strong track record of success in similar cases and be able to explain complex legal concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. Effective communication is also crucial. Your attorney should listen actively, communicate clearly and concisely, and keep you updated on your case’s progress. They should be responsive to your inquiries and concerns, and you should feel comfortable discussing personal and sensitive information with them.Professionalism and integrity are also vital. Research your attorney’s reputation online, ask for referrals from trusted professionals, and ensure they adhere to a strict code of ethics. You should also understand their fee structure, including hourly rates, flat fees, or contingency fees, to ensure you’re comfortable with the payment terms. Finding an attorney who is a good match for you is crucial for effective communication, trust, and confidence. When you trust your attorney, you’ll feel more confident in their ability to represent you, leading to better outcomes. A compatible attorney will also provide personalized representation, understanding your unique needs and concerns. Ultimately, working with an attorney who is a good match can reduce stress and anxiety, making the legal process less overwhelming. Finding the right criminal attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case and your overall experience throughout the legal process. It is important to also choose an attorney who is in your pice range. It is important to have a good connection with your attorney, and to select a lawyer who is a good match for your goals and your budget.  There are many qualified attorneys in Indianapolis, and I recommend a few that you should consider below:

1. Jeff Cardella

Jeff Cardella’s legal career began in Indianapolis, where he established himself as a dedicated criminal defense attorney. With unwavering commitment, he fiercely protects his clients’ Constitutional rights against government overreach. Throughout his career, Cardella has navigated every aspect of the criminal justice system, including jury trials, court trials, suppression hearings, post-conviction relief, forfeiture proceedings, civil rights actions, appeals, oral arguments, probation revocation hearings, expungements, record sealing, hardship license petitions, specialized driving privileges, and plea negotiations.
Cardella’s law firm has earned recognition as one of Indiana’s top ten law firms by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys. He has also been acknowledged as one of the top ten criminal defense attorneys in Indiana under 40 by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. Furthermore, Cardella has taught criminal law at the Indiana University School of Law and served as a Judge pro tem in Indianapolis.
Cardella’s impressive portfolio includes representing high-profile clients, such as a fellow criminal defense attorney, an Indianapolis Metro Police Officer, and two former Marion County Sheriff’s deputies, in cases involving allegations of illegal activity. One notable case involved the successful filing of a Federal Class Action lawsuit, Washington v. Marion County Prosecutor, which led to the declaration of Indiana’s vehicle forfeiture statute as unconstitutional under the Due Process clause of the US Constitution. Cardella also co-authored an amicus brief for the landmark United States Supreme Court case of Timbs v. State of Indiana, which held that Indiana’s attempts at forfeiture were unconstitutional under the Excessive Fines clause of the US Constitution.
In addition to his high-profile cases, Cardella has successfully handled over a dozen lawsuits against the Indiana Department of Corrections, challenging solitary confinement procedures under the Due Process Clause of the US Constitution. He has also filed several successful lawsuits against the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department for arrests violating the First Amendment of the US Constitution.
Cardella’s primary objective is to deliver exceptional legal representation at reasonable prices, especially when compared to other top-tier criminal attorneys in Indiana. He recognizes that each client is an individual, not just a case file. Cardella believes that everyone deserves an attorney who will vigorously defend their rights in court and protect their Constitutional freedoms. With his extensive experience, impressive track record, and commitment to his clients, Cardella is a trusted and respected advocate for those facing criminal charges in Indiana.

For more information about Cardella’s services and practice areas is available here. If you have any questions about your case, and wish to speak with an Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney, Indiana Expungement Attorney, Indiana Forfeiture Lawyer, or Indiana Civil Rights Lawyer, and are looking at the higher end of the price spectrum, and wish to speak to Indianapolis Criminal Lawyer & Expungement Attorney Jeff Cardella, you can visit the website for the Law Office of Jeff Cardella Criminal Defense Attorney & Expungement Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana by clicking here.

2. Josiah Swinney

Josiah Swinney stands out as a highly skilled trial and appellate attorney, renowned for his exceptional prowess in handling intricate criminal cases that have captivated public attention. With a stellar track record of securing favorable outcomes in high-profile matters, Swinney has solidified his reputation as a formidable advocate for his clients.
Swinney’s impressive credentials are a testament to his dedication to excellence. He graduated with honors from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, laying the foundation for a distinguished legal career. His tenure as a clerk for Solicitor General Thomas M. Fisher afforded him invaluable experience, drafting multiple cases litigated in the Supreme Court of the United States, including one that progressed to oral argument. Moreover, Swinney provided counsel to the Indiana Attorney General on whether to join cases in other states and federal circuits, further honing his expertise.
As a Deputy Attorney General, Swinney continued to serve his community with distinction. Today, he maintains a thriving practice, appearing in trial courts across Indiana, the Court of Appeals, and the Indiana Supreme Court. His notable wins are a matter of public record, accessible on Casetext or Westlaw.
Swinney’s expertise spans both state and federal courts, where he handles a wide range of criminal law cases, from trials to appeals. His proficiency in navigating the complexities of federal cases has earned him a reputation as a go-to attorney for clients seeking skilled representation.
As a seasoned trial and appellate attorney, Swinney possesses a unique blend of skills, combining meticulous preparation, compelling advocacy, and a deep understanding of the law. His commitment to delivering outstanding results has garnered recognition from Super Lawyers, who have consistently named him a Rising Star since 2022. This prestigious distinction is reserved for the top 2.5% of attorneys under 40, underscoring Swinney’s exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

3. Christina Gomez

Christina Gomez is a dedicated criminal defense litigation attorney and expungement lawyer serving clients throughout Indiana, including Marion, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Madison, Henry, and Monroe counties. Her practice focuses on criminal law matters, encompassing criminal defense, expungements, DUI/DWI and other drug or alcohol-related offenses, as well as sentence modifications. Gomez is also experienced in handling litigation related to violations of individual civil rights and due process, including abuse and overreach by law enforcement and government entities.
Gomez’s personal background has instilled in her a unique perspective and passion for advocating on behalf of individuals facing crises, accusations, or government action. Born and raised in the inner city of Los Angeles, California, Gomez witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by those in economically disadvantaged areas. This experience has driven her to become a zealous advocate for her clients.
Gomez pursued her undergraduate studies in Southern California, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from California State University Dominguez Hills. She later received her Juris Doctor degree from the Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Outside of her practice, Gomez values family time and enjoys exploring Indiana’s State Parks with her loved ones.

4. Stephanie Renner

Attorney Stephanie Renner is a highly skilled and dedicated legal professional, focusing her practice on criminal defense, expungement, prenuptial agreements, and divorce cases. With extensive experience in complex white-collar litigation at both the state and federal levels, Renner has successfully navigated cases ranging from Federal securities fraud to murder. Her in-depth understanding of the federal U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and Indiana Expungement Law has earned her a reputation as a leading expert in her field, with colleagues affectionately referring to her as “the Expungement Queen.”
Renner’s primary goal is to provide personalized, compassionate, and aggressive representation to her clients, ensuring they receive the best possible outcome. She understands the immense stress and uncertainty that can come with facing criminal charges and is devoted to leveraging her expertise and training to protect her clients’ rights and interests. Renner is committed to maintaining open and transparent communication with her clients, keeping them fully informed throughout every step of the legal process.
With a strong academic foundation, Renner graduated from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law and obtained her Bachelor of Arts from Butler University. Prior to establishing her own practice, Renner honed her skills working under Judge Joven in the Marion Superior Court and at the J. Edgar Law Offices for five years.
Renner’s unique blend of expertise, compassion, and dedication makes her an exceptional advocate for her clients. Her commitment to delivering personalized representation at reasonable rates has earned her a reputation as a trusted and respected member of the legal community. When she’s not advocating for her clients, Renner can often be found with her loyal “para-beagles” by her side.

5. Bob Hill 

Bob Hill is an experienced attorney who now runs the Marion County Public Defender Agency.  While he generally does not personally handle cases, he has many deputy criminal lawyers who handle criminal cases in Indianapolis.  Public defenders are an excellent option for many individuals who cannot afford private legal representation. If you’re facing criminal charges and money is tight, using a public defender might be a good idea. One of the most significant advantages of public defenders is that they are free or low-cost, which can be a substantial benefit if you’re struggling financially.  Public defenders are typically assigned to your case immediately, ensuring you have representation from the outset. Unlike private attorneys, public defenders usually don’t require upfront costs or retainer fees, which can be a significant financial burden. While there are advantages to using a public defender, it’s essential to remember that they often handle a higher volume of cases. You may also have limited control over the actual public defender assigned to your case. However, if money is tight, using a public defender can be a good idea.