Criminal Attorney in Muncie, Delaware County, IN
Jeff Cardella

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.

If you have questions about a legal matter in Muncie, Yorktown or Albany, 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:

• Drug Cases

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.

• Domestic Violence Allegations

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.

• White collar Crimes

I defend individuals who have been accused of white collar criminal activity such as forgery, fraud, money laundering, insider trading, embezzlement, identity theft and tax crimes.

• Federal Criminal Charges and Investigations

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.

• Drunk Driving Cases

I defend clients against DUI and OWI charges by working to prevent jail time, license suspensions, steep fines, and the long-term consequences that can affect employment and insurance rates. I handle cases ranging from misdemeanor drunk driving allegations to serious felony charges and chemical test refusals, carefully examining traffic stops, field sobriety tests, breath and blood testing procedures, and police conduct for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

• Breach of the Peace 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.

• Alcohol Offenses

I routinely handle alcohol offenses, such as DUI, chemical test refusals, underage drinking (minor in possession of alcohol), and public intoxication cases.

• Property Crimes

I represent people who have been accused of property crimes, such as theft, shoplifting, conversion, criminal mischief, trespassing, burglary, robbery and arson. 

• Gun Charges and Weapons Offenses

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.

• Allegations of Violence

I defend individuals who have been accused of violent crimes, such as assault, battery, manslaughter, and homicide cases.

• Sex Crimes

I handle sex crime cases, including public nudity, public indecency, prostitution, sexual battery, rape, child molestation, exploitation, and sex-offender registry offenses.

• Forfeiture

As one of Indiana’s leading forfeiture attorneys, I aggressively fighting to recover seized cash, vehicles, firearms, and other property in complex state and federal forfeiture cases.

• Civil Rights & Excessive Force 

I represent people who have been accI handle high-stakes civil rights and excessive force litigation involving police shootings, unlawful arrests, unconstitutional jail conditions, and other serious abuses of governmental power, drawing on my extensive constitutional and criminal defense background to aggressively hold law enforcement and government agencies accountable. You have probably seen some of my cases in the news.  

• Driving 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.

• Expungement for misdemeanor and felony cases

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.

• Suppression 

As someone who taught suppression law for years, I aggressively challenge unlawful searches, seizures, and interrogations to suppress illegally obtained evidence and fight for dismissal of criminal charges. 

• Appeals 

As an attorney with real appellate experience in Indiana state and federal courts—including constitutional victories before the Seventh Circuit and involvement in a United States Supreme Court case—I aggressively identify and challenge legal errors to fight for reversals, new trials, reduced sentences, and dismissed convictions. 

Navigating the Criminal Justice System and Courts with a Delaware County Criminal Attorney

Being arrested and facing criminal charges in Delaware County, Indiana, can feel daunting, yet working with an experienced local criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the system with greater confidence and clarity.
The journey typically starts with an initial hearing in one of the Delaware County Circuit Courts, where the judge reviews the charges, informs you of your rights, and sets or adjusts bond conditions to allow for pretrial release when appropriate. These proceedings often occur at the Delaware County Justice Center in Muncie.
In matters involving OWI, drug-related offenses, or searches during traffic stops around Muncie or other parts of the county, suppression motions can play a key role. A strong defense attorney may challenge evidence collection to protect your rights, with such hearings handled efficiently in the local circuit courts.
Many cases in Delaware County resolve through negotiated resolutions with the prosecutor’s office. Skilled counsel can explore options that avoid lengthy trials while addressing the unique aspects of each situation, focusing on outcomes that fit your circumstances.
For allegations such as theft, assault, or domestic battery, gathering witness statements through depositions allows your lawyer to strengthen your position and develop a customized approach based on Delaware County’s court practices.
Delaware County provides alternatives through its Community Corrections department, including work release, home detention, and electronic monitoring programs. An adept attorney can effectively advocate for these options at sentencing to minimize jail time and support rehabilitation where suitable.
Jury trials take place in the modern Justice Center facilities, drawing jurors from the local community who understand the area’s dynamics. This setup promotes a balanced process grounded in familiarity with Muncie and surrounding neighborhoods.

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. 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:

What should I look for in an OWI attorney in Muncie?

When facing an OWI charge in Muncie, it’s essential to choose an attorney with extensive experience. I provide dedicated representation, focusing on challenging evidence and seeking the best possible outcomes. My reasonable fees ensure you get top-quality defense without breaking the bank.

How can a possession of marijuana lawyer in Delaware County assist me?

Any drug charge can have serious consequences, but a knowledgeable lawyer can help by filing motions to suppress evidence or negotiating diversions. I am committed to protecting your rights and exploring all your options.

Why hire a public intoxication criminal attorney in Yorktown?

Public intoxication charges often stem from youthful indiscretions and a skilled criminal attorney can argue for dismissal or reduced penalties. I bring a positive approach to each case, ensuring thorough preparation and advocacy. My fees are reasonable, making it easier to secure effective representation.

What is the role of a theft defense attorney in Albany?

A defense attorney can investigate the circumstances and build a strong case for your innocence or mitigation. I offer compassionate and strategic defense. My clients appreciate my reasonable pricing for high-quality legal services.

How does a battery criminal lawyer in Muncie handle cases?

Battery charges require a criminal lawyer who understands self-defense arguments and can negotiate effectively. I provide aggressive yet thoughtful representation to achieve favorable results. My flat fees are competitively priced.

What help can a disorderly conduct criminal defense attorney in Delaware County provide?

A criminal defense attorney can challenge witness statements and seek community service alternatives. I am dedicated to minimizing impacts on your life with personalized strategies. Enjoy reasonable fees for comprehensive legal aid in local courts.

Why choose a trespassing lawyer in Yorktown?

Trespassing allegations in can be resolved quickly with a lawyer who knows how to present mitigating factors to prosecutors. I offer reliable and positive guidance throughout the process. My affordable payment options make quality defense attainable.

How can a resisting law enforcement defense attorney in Muncie support my defense?

Resisting law enforcement charges in Muncie often involve reviewing police conduct and applicable law. A defense attorney can file for suppression or dismissal if your rights were violated. I bring enthusiasm and expertise to every case, aiming for the best resolutions. Reasonable fees ensure you can afford defense.

What does a harassment criminal attorney in Albany do?

A criminal attorney can demonstrate lack of intent or negotiate dismissals. I provide supportive and effective representation tailored to you. With my reasonable rates, top-tier defense is within reach in Delaware County.

How to find a conversion criminal lawyer in Delaware County?

Seek a criminal lawyer experienced in property crime defenses and plea bargaining. I am here to offer outstanding service with a focus on positive outcomes. My fees are designed to be affordable for clients facing such issues in the area.

Additional Resources for the Courts and Criminal Justice System in Delaware County, Indiana