If you are in need of a top rated criminal defense attorney in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana, call me at 317-695-7700 for a free consultation. I have been a criminal attorney in Indiana for my entire legal career, have almost two decades of experience and taught criminal law at the IU School of Law.
I was selected as one of the Top 100 Attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers. 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 Indiana University School of Law and served as a Judge pro tem in Indiana. 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 handled 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 Metro 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. My office routinely handles a variety of case types. Some of the most common case types that I handle are DUI, drug possession, dealing, white collar offenses, federal drug trafficking charges, possession of a controlled substance, public intoxication, theft, battery, possession of marijuana, domestic battery, resisting law enforcement, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, trespass, possession of methamphetamine, dealing in methamphetamine, driving while suspended, burglary, robbery, fraud, forgery, invasion of privacy, intimidation, pointing a firearm, operating a vehicle with a suspended license, possession of paraphernalia, maintaining a common nuisance, neglect of a dependent, dealing in a controlled substance, possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, murder, homicide, sex and prostitution offenses, operating a vehicle after being adjudged a habitual traffic offender, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, criminal recklessness, stalking, arson, auto theft, check deception, and welfare fraud.
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.
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Criminal Defense Attorney in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana ~ Jeff Cardella
The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana
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The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana
The courts and criminal justice system in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana, form a critical framework for upholding law and order, ensuring justice, and protecting the rights of residents. Tippecanoe County, located in west-central Indiana, is home to a robust judicial system that includes various courts with distinct jurisdictions, as well as supporting agencies like the Sheriff’s Office, Prosecutor’s Office, and Probation Department. The historic Tippecanoe County Courthouse, a landmark in downtown Lafayette, serves as the central hub for most of these judicial activities. This comprehensive overview explores the structure, functions, and key components of the courts and criminal justice system in Tippecanoe County, providing essential contact information and insights into their operations.
Overview of the Tippecanoe County Court System
The Tippecanoe County court system comprises eight courts, all housed within the iconic Tippecanoe County Courthouse at 301 Main Street, Lafayette, IN 47901. This architectural marvel, built in the 1880s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is a blend of Baroque, Gothic, Georgian, Victorian, Beaux Arts, and Second Empire styles. It features a clock tower, a 14-foot statue of Liberty (or possibly Justice, as she holds scales), and a rich history of serving the community for over 125 years. The courthouse is not only a functional space for judicial proceedings but also a cultural treasure, housing artworks from the Round the Fountain Art Fair and a 1906 cage elevator. The courts within the courthouse include the Circuit Court, seven Superior Courts, and the West Lafayette City Court, each with specific roles in handling civil, criminal, and specialized cases.
The Tippecanoe Circuit Court, established by Indiana’s Constitution in 1826, is the county’s court of general jurisdiction. It handles major criminal cases, domestic relations, civil cases, and has exclusive jurisdiction over probate matters, including estates, guardianships, adoptions, and trusts. The Circuit Court shares jurisdiction over juvenile matters with Superior Court 3, though the latter handles most juvenile cases. For inquiries, the Circuit Court can be reached at (765) 423-9343, with operating hours from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
The Superior Courts in Tippecanoe County are numbered 1 through 7, each with distinct responsibilities. Superior Court 1 handles general civil and criminal jurisdiction, including the Felony Forensic Diversion Court, with pro se domestic suit and support hearings typically scheduled on Monday mornings. Superior Court 2 also deals with general civil and criminal cases, sharing responsibilities with the Circuit Court and Superior Court 1. Superior Court 3 primarily focuses on juvenile matters, while Superior Court 5 handles misdemeanor and Class D felony criminal cases. Superior Court 6 has jurisdiction over traffic-related cases, including infractions, misdemeanors, and Level 6 felonies, such as operating while intoxicated and reckless driving. Superior Court 7, the newest court established on January 1, 2021, manages a hybrid docket of criminal misdemeanors, Level 6 felonies, eviction and landlord-tenant disputes, and divorce cases without children. For case-specific inquiries, Superior Court 6 can be contacted at superiorcourt6staff@tippecanoe.in.gov, and Superior Court 7 at (765) 269-4030. All courts encourage checking case information online at mycase.in.gov before contacting them directly.
The West Lafayette City Court, located at 222 N. Chauncey Ave, West Lafayette, IN 47906, serves the city of West Lafayette and handles local ordinance violations and certain criminal and civil matters. It can be reached at (765) 775-5155 or via email at citycourt@westlafayette.in.gov. This court, like others in the county, uses the Odyssey Case Management System for record-keeping and public access to non-confidential case information.
Accessing Court Records and Services
Court records in Tippecanoe County are managed through the Odyssey Case Management System, provided by the Indiana Judicial Branch. This online platform allows users to search for civil, criminal, and family law cases by case number, name, or attorney. For optimal search results, users should enter the last name and first initial of the party involved, as date of birth and Social Security numbers are typically not included in public records. The Tippecanoe County Clerk’s Office, led by Clerk Julie Roush, oversees record requests, marriage and divorce paperwork, case filings, and the collection of court fees and fines. The Clerk’s Office is located at 301 Main St., 2nd Floor, Lafayette, IN 47901, and can be contacted at (765) 423-9326. For online processing, the Internet Service Request Portal offers forms like the Case Filings form or Records Request form for those without a case number.
The Clerk’s Office also handles payments for court fines, fees, and tickets issued by the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Department and Lafayette Police Department. Additionally, it processes notary public applications and issues marriage licenses for county residents and nonresidents planning to marry in Tippecanoe County. Payments and inquiries about fines should be directed to the Clerk’s Office, particularly for Superior Court 7 cases.
Key Components of the Criminal Justice System
The criminal justice system in Tippecanoe County extends beyond the courts to include law enforcement, prosecution, and correctional services. The Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office, located at 2640 Duncan Road, Lafayette, IN 47904, is a cornerstone of public safety. It patrols unincorporated areas, manages the county jail, and enforces legal judgments such as foreclosures and tax delinquencies. The Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (765) 423-9388, ext. 3208, with a fax number of (765) 423-4155. For inquiries about inmates, warrants, or sheriff services, this office is the primary contact.
The Tippecanoe County Prosecutor’s Office, accessible at tcprosecutor.com, is responsible for the fair and ethical prosecution of criminal offenders. It plays a vital role in delivering justice for crime victims and advancing investigative techniques. The Prosecutor’s Office works closely with the courts and law enforcement to ensure cases are handled with integrity.
The Adult Division of the Probation Department, also located at 301 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Lafayette, IN 47901, oversees supervised release and probation conditions for offenders. Contact can be made via email at probation@tippecanoe.in.gov or in person from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. The department evaluates offenders and refers them to appropriate agencies for rehabilitation, such as the Court Services alcohol and drug program located at the same address.
Additional Judicial and Public Safety Services
The United States District Court for the Northern District of Indiana has a divisional office in Lafayette at the Charles A. Halleck Federal Building, 230 North Fourth St., Room 105, Lafayette, IN 47901-1322. This federal court handles cases involving bankruptcy, criminal, and misdemeanor matters and can be contacted at (765) 420-6250. It serves as a venue for trials, witness testimonies, and jury services, complementing the state-level courts in the county.
The Court Services division, located at 301 Main Street, 1st Floor, Lafayette, IN 47901, provides substance abuse assessments and referrals, playing a critical role in rehabilitation efforts for offenders. This service underscores the county’s commitment to addressing underlying issues like substance abuse to reduce recidivism.
Public Access and Transparency
Tippecanoe County prioritizes transparency in its judicial system. The Odyssey Case Management System, accessible via mycase.in.gov, provides public access to non-confidential court records, including case summaries, charges, and financial obligations. However, certain records, such as juvenile cases, remain confidential. For official records, requests must be made through the Clerk’s Office, as online results are not considered official. The county also encourages e-filing for attorneys, streamlining case management and improving efficiency.
Public records searches, including criminal, arrest, and warrant information, can be conducted through platforms like IndianaCourtRecords.us, though users are cautioned that these services are not consumer reporting agencies under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Misuse of such records for purposes like stalking or harassment may lead to legal consequences. The County Recorder’s Office, led by Kristy Martin at 20 N. 3rd Street, 2nd Floor, Lafayette, IN 47901 (phone: 765-423-3952), handles deed searches and other property-related records.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Tippecanoe County Courthouse is not only a functional judicial center but also a symbol of the county’s heritage. Built at a cost of $500,000 in 1884, it was the most expensive courthouse in Indiana for decades. Its architectural grandeur, including 100 columns, nine statues, and a 3,000-pound bell, reflects the community’s pride. Restoration efforts in the 1990s ensured its longevity, preserving features like the 48-foot mural of the Battle of Tippecanoe on the second floor. Visitors can explore its history through self-guided tour brochures available online.
Conclusion
The courts and criminal justice system in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana, are a well-coordinated network of judicial, law enforcement, and correctional services dedicated to upholding justice and public safety. From the historic Circuit Court to the specialized Superior Courts and the West Lafayette City Court, each plays a vital role in addressing legal matters. Supporting agencies like the Sheriff’s Office, Prosecutor’s Office, and Probation Department ensure a holistic approach to justice. With accessible public records, transparent processes, and a commitment to community welfare, Tippecanoe County’s judicial system remains a cornerstone of its governance. For further information, key contacts include the Tippecanoe County Clerk’s Office at (765) 423-9326, the Sheriff’s Office at (765) 423-9388, and the Circuit Court at (765) 423-9343.
Call 317-695-7700 for a Free Consultation with a Defense Attorney about Your Case in Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Call 317-695-7700 for a free consultation with an Indiana defense attorney if you have questions about a criminal matter in Lafayette, Tippecanoe 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 Attorney for Lafayette, Tippecanoe 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 Lafayette, Tippecanoe 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 Lawyer for Lafayette, Tippecanoe 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 Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana Legal System with a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Lafayette, Tippecanoe 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 Lawyer 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
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.
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:
I handle cases throughout all of Indiana, including the Federal District Courts, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and Lafayette, Tippecanoe County, Indiana.
Additional Resources for Tippecanoe County, Indiana
Tippecanoe County Clerk’s Office, Indiana
The Tippecanoe County Clerk’s Office, situated in Lafayette, Indiana, is a vital administrative hub for all of Tippecanoe County. This office is responsible for a wide range of services, including maintaining court records, processing marriage licenses, and overseeing elections for the residents of Tippecanoe County, Indiana. If you need to access public documents, file legal paperwork, or have questions about court proceedings in Tippecanoe County, you can reach them at:
Address: 301 Main Street, 2nd Floor, Lafayette, IN 47901
Phone: (765) 423-9326
The Tippecanoe County Clerk’s Office serves the entire Tippecanoe County, Indiana area, including Lafayette, West Lafayette, and Dayton.
Tippecanoe County Jail, Indiana
The Tippecanoe County Jail is a critical component of the criminal justice system in Tippecanoe County, Indiana. Located in Lafayette, Indiana, this facility is managed by the Tippecanoe County Sheriff’s Office. For inquiries related to inmates, visitation schedules, or general jail operations within Tippecanoe County, Indiana, you can use the following contact information:
Address: 2640 Duncan Road, Lafayette, IN 47904
Phone: (765) 423-1655
The Tippecanoe County Jail serves all communities within Tippecanoe County, Indiana, including Lafayette, West Lafayette, and Dayton.
Lafayette Police Department, Indiana
The Lafayette Police Department is dedicated to ensuring public safety and enforcing laws within the city of Lafayette, Indiana. As a primary law enforcement agency in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, the Lafayette Police Department plays a crucial role in maintaining order and responding to emergencies. For non-emergency assistance or general inquiries in Lafayette, you can contact them at:
Address: 601 Columbia Street, Lafayette, IN 47901
Non-Emergency Phone: (765) 807-1200
The Lafayette Police Department is committed to serving the residents and visitors of Lafayette, Indiana.
West Lafayette City Court, Indiana
The West Lafayette City Court serves the judicial needs of West Lafayette, Indiana. This court handles various local legal matters, including traffic infractions, ordinance violations, and some misdemeanor cases within West Lafayette and Tippecanoe County, Indiana. If you need to contact the West Lafayette City Court for information regarding a case or payments, you can find them at:
Address: 609 West Navajo Street, West Lafayette, IN 47906
Phone: (765) 775-5155
The West Lafayette City Court is an important local legal resource for the community of West Lafayette, Indiana.
West Lafayette Police Department, Indiana
The West Lafayette Police Department is responsible for law enforcement and public safety in West Lafayette, Indiana. Working closely with other agencies in Tippecanoe County, Indiana, the West Lafayette Police Department is a key point of contact for residents and visitors. For non-emergency situations or general inquiries in West Lafayette, you can reach them at:
Address: 711 W. Navajo St., West Lafayette, IN 47906
Non-Emergency Phone: (765) 775-5200 (This is a commonly cited non-emergency number for West Lafayette Police, though some sources list Purdue Police for campus-related incidents.)
The West Lafayette Police Department is dedicated to serving the community of West Lafayette, Indiana.
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.