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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The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Richmond, Wayne County, Indiana

Richmond, the county seat of Wayne County, Indiana, is a vibrant city of approximately 35,000 residents, located in east-central Indiana near the Ohio border. Wayne County, with a population of about 66,000, is a blend of urban and rural landscapes, known for its rich industrial history, cultural heritage, and educational institutions like Earlham College and Indiana University East. The county’s economy is driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture, with major employers like Reid Health and Belden Inc. contributing to its industrial base. Richmond’s historic Depot District, with its cobblestone streets and trendy eateries, alongside attractions like the Wayne County Historical Museum and the annual Meltdown Winter Ice Festival, fosters a strong community spirit. The criminal justice system in Wayne County, centered in Richmond, is a well-integrated network of courts, the prosecutor’s office, jail, probation department, and community corrections, designed to address the unique needs of this diverse county. For individuals navigating this system, understanding its components and the county’s distinct characteristics is essential, often requiring the guidance of a defense attorney familiar with local dynamics.

The Wayne County court system is a cornerstone of the criminal justice process, operating out of the Wayne County Courthouse at 301 East Main Street in Richmond. This historic building houses four courts: the Circuit Court, Superior Court I, Superior Court II, and Superior Court III, each with specific roles. The Circuit Court, presided over by Judge April Drake, handles serious felony cases, such as drug trafficking or violent crimes, as well as civil matters like probate and family law. Superior Court I, led by Judge Ronald Moore, and Superior Court II, under Judge Gregory Horn, manage a mix of felonies, misdemeanors, and civil cases. Superior Court III, presided over by Judge Mark Cox, focuses on criminal misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and small claims, with extended hours for small claims on Mondays until 5:00 p.m. The courts operate Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closing for lunch from noon to 1:00 p.m., and prohibit cell phones in courtrooms, reflecting a strict procedural environment. The county’s higher caseload, driven by Richmond’s urban setting and proximity to Interstate 70, requires efficient case management, but the courts’ thorough processes demand prompt action from defendants. Specialized proceedings, such as expungement under Indiana’s Second Chance Law, are significant in a community where a criminal record can impact employment at local manufacturers or educational institutions. A criminal attorney with knowledge of these courts can navigate their schedules and strict rules effectively.

The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, also located at 301 East Main Street on the first floor of the courthouse, is responsible for pursuing criminal charges, including felonies, misdemeanors, traffic infractions, and juvenile cases. Led by Prosecuting Attorney Michael Shipman, the office operates from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and is the chief law enforcement entity in the county, representing the State of Indiana in all criminal prosecutions. The office prioritizes issues like drug-related crimes, which are prevalent due to Wayne County’s location along Interstate 70, a major drug trafficking corridor. It also manages unique programs, such as a check deception initiative to assist local merchants, a victim assistance program to support crime victims, and a child support enforcement division. The office collaborates with local law enforcement, including the Richmond Police Department, Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, and smaller agencies in Hagerstown and Centerville, ensuring a proactive approach to case preparation. Its juvenile division files delinquency petitions for offenses committed by those under 18, handled in Superior Court III, reflecting the county’s focus on youth rehabilitation. A criminal lawyer engaging with this office must understand its emphasis on drug crimes and community programs to navigate plea negotiations or evidence challenges effectively.

The Wayne County Jail, located at 200 East Main Street in Richmond, is a modern facility managed by the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department. With a capacity of approximately 240 inmates, the jail houses individuals awaiting trial, serving short sentences for misdemeanors, or awaiting transfer to state facilities for felony convictions. The facility is equipped with updated security systems and offers limited rehabilitation programs, such as substance abuse counseling, which are critical given the county’s drug-related challenges. Its proximity to the courthouse ensures efficient inmate transport for hearings, and its size reflects Wayne County’s urban-rural mix, serving both Richmond’s city residents and rural communities like Cambridge City and Fountain City. The jail’s staff often interact with inmates from the community, fostering a personal dynamic. For example, inmates with ties to local businesses may have work release considerations to maintain employment at places like Primex Plastics. A criminal defense attorney can assist clients by addressing detention conditions or advocating for access to these programs, ensuring their needs are met within the jail’s framework.

The Wayne County Probation Department, based in the courthouse, oversees individuals sentenced to probation, ensuring compliance with court-ordered conditions like drug testing, community service, or restitution. The department is relatively large compared to other rural counties, with multiple probation officers serving the county’s diverse population, allowing for structured supervision. Officers conduct home visits in areas like Hagerstown or Dublin, monitoring compliance while considering local factors, such as employment at major employers or the demands of farming in rural townships. The department prepares presentence investigation reports for the Circuit Court, particularly for felony cases, and emphasizes rehabilitation to support the county’s interconnected community. Probation terms may be tailored to allow defendants to continue working at local hospitals or factories. A criminal defense lawyer can help clients understand and meet these probation requirements, addressing any compliance issues that arise.

Wayne County’s Community Corrections program, managed from Richmond, provides alternatives to incarceration, such as home detention, work release, and electronic monitoring. Funded by the Indiana Department of Correction, the program is designed to suit the county’s urban-rural character, allowing offenders to maintain employment in manufacturing or healthcare while serving sentences. The work release program is particularly significant, enabling defendants to work at local businesses like Dairy Queen or Reid Health during the day while returning to a correctional setting at night. The program collaborates with local organizations to offer counseling and job training, aiming to reduce recidivism in a community where social ties are strong. Unlike rural counties, Wayne County’s community corrections program handles a higher volume of cases due to Richmond’s urban population, with a focus on addressing drug-related offenses through treatment programs. A criminal attorney can assist clients in exploring eligibility for these programs, particularly for non-violent offenses like DUI or minor theft.

Wayne County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique blend of urban and rural characteristics, as well as its historical and economic context. The county’s economy is anchored by manufacturing, with companies like Anchor Glass Container Corporation, and healthcare, with Reid Health being a major employer. Agriculture remains significant in rural areas, with crops like corn and soybeans. This economic diversity influences case types, with courts handling urban issues like retail theft or drug possession alongside rural disputes over farm equipment or trespassing. The county’s location along Interstate 70 drives drug-related cases, particularly methamphetamine and opioid offenses, while its cultural attractions, like the Richmond Art Museum and the annual Roses to the River festival, reinforce community ties. A criminal record can significantly impact one’s ability to secure employment at local institutions or participate in community events like the Wayne County Fair. A criminal lawyer with local expertise can tailor strategies to these dynamics, addressing the specific context of Wayne County.

The county’s urban-rural setting and community values further define its criminal justice system. Richmond’s Depot District, with its boutique shops and craft breweries, reflects a community where personal relationships and civic engagement matter. The criminal justice system prioritizes rehabilitation, recognizing that offenders often remain part of the community after their sentences. For example, judges may consider community input, such as letters from local business owners or educators, when making sentencing decisions, reflecting Wayne County’s interconnected nature. The system also addresses unique challenges, such as ensuring defendants can meet probation or community corrections requirements while maintaining employment in manufacturing or healthcare. A criminal defense attorney familiar with these local nuances can guide defendants through the system, addressing the specific needs of an urban-rural community.

Navigating the criminal justice system in Wayne County requires understanding its interconnected components and the county’s diverse context. From arrests handled by the Richmond Police or Wayne County Sheriff’s Department, often along urban corridors like U.S. 40 or rural routes like State Road 1, to the completion of probation or community corrections, each stage involves specific procedures. The courts’ adherence to strict procedural rules, the prosecutor’s focus on drug crimes and community programs, and the availability of robust community corrections initiatives reflect Wayne County’s commitment to addressing local challenges. A criminal defense lawyer with knowledge of Richmond’s system can assist defendants at each stage, from initial hearings to compliance with probation terms.

For residents of Richmond and Wayne County, facing criminal charges can be challenging in a community where social and economic roles are significant. A conviction, whether for a misdemeanor like public intoxication or a felony like drug trafficking, can impact employment at major employers or participation in community events like the Centerville Archway Days. The criminal justice system in Wayne County is structured to balance accountability with rehabilitation, offering programs that prioritize reintegration into the community. A criminal attorney with experience in this system can assist defendants in navigating its complexities, ensuring they understand their options and responsibilities within the county’s framework.

In conclusion, the criminal justice system in Richmond, Wayne County, Indiana, is a cohesive network of courts, prosecutors, jail, probation, and community corrections, designed to serve a community defined by its industrial, agricultural, and cultural diversity. The historic courthouse, proactive prosecutor’s office, and robust rehabilitation programs reflect the county’s commitment to justice and local values. Shaped by Wayne County’s urban-rural dynamics and its location along a major trafficking corridor, the system addresses specific challenges like drug crimes and economic-related offenses. For those facing charges, understanding the local courts, prosecutor priorities, and rehabilitation options is crucial. A criminal defense attorney with experience in Wayne County can provide guidance through this system, addressing the specific needs of defendants in a community where justice is both personal and community-focused.

Wayne County Criminal Justice Resources

Below are key contacts for legal and law enforcement institutions in Wayne County, Indiana. These resources are provided to assist clients and visitors with navigating the local criminal justice system.

Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office

The Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecuting Attorney Michael Shipman, handles felony and misdemeanor prosecutions, juvenile delinquency cases, and child support enforcement.
Address: 301 E Main St, Richmond, IN 47374
Phone: 765-973-9394
Fax: 765-973-9298
Website: co.wayne.in.us/prosecutor
Contact for Victim Assistance: Rebecca Studebaker, Victim Assistance Coordinator, 765-973-9394
Contact for Child Support Division: David McClintock, Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, 765-973-9285

Wayne County Circuit Court

The Circuit Court, presided over by Judge April Drake, handles felony and misdemeanor cases, civil cases, and other legal proceedings. Contact for scheduling or case information.
Address: 301 E Main St, Richmond, IN 47374
Phone: 765-973-9266
Fax: 765-973-9250
Scheduling Information: 765-973-9390
Civil Clerk: 765-973-9221
Criminal Clerk: 765-973-9218
Website: co.wayne.in.us/courts

Wayne County Superior Court I

Presided over by Judge Ronald Moore, Superior Court I oversees criminal and civil cases. Attorneys are required to e-file in this court.
Address: 301 E Main St, Richmond, IN 47374
Phone: 765-973-9259
Fax: 765-973-9250
Scheduling Information: 765-973-9255
Civil Clerk: 765-973-9217
Criminal Clerk: 765-973-9223
Website: co.wayne.in.us/courts

Wayne County Superior Court II

Superior Court II, presided over by Judge Gregory Horn, handles a range of criminal and civil matters. Contact for court scheduling or case inquiries.
Address: 301 E Main St, Richmond, IN 47374
Phone: 765-973-9260
Fax: 765-973-9250
Scheduling Information: 765-973-9434
Civil Clerk: 765-973-9216
Criminal Clerk: 765-973-9215
Website: co.wayne.in.us/courts

Wayne County Superior Court III

Superior Court III, presided over by Judge Mark Cox, handles criminal misdemeanors, traffic offenses, small claims, and other cases.
Address: 301 E Main St, Richmond, IN 47374
Phone: 765-973-9269
Fax: 765-973-9423
Small Claims Information: 765-973-9202
Traffic Fine Information: 765-973-9267
Website: co.wayne.in.us/courts

Wayne County Sheriff’s Office and Jail

The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, located near the courthouse, manages the county jail and provides public safety services. Contact for inmate information or sheriff services.
Address: 200 E Main St, Richmond, IN 47374
Phone: 765-973-9393
Website: sheriff.co.wayne.in.us 

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

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Richmond, Wayne 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 Richmond, Wayne County, Indiana.