Criminal Attorney in Bloomington, Monroe County, IN
Jeff Cardella

Criminal Attorney, Monroe County, Indiana Jeff Cardella Serving Bloomington, Ellettsville and Stinesville

If you are in need of a top rated criminal defense attorney in Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana, call me at 317-695-7700 or email me for a free consultation. 

I was selected as one of the Top 100 Attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers Association. 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 IU McKinney School of Law and served as a Judge pro tem. 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 filed 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 Indianapolis Metropolitan 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.
Top-Rated Criminal Lawyer in Monroe County, Indiana 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 Bloomington, Ellettsville or Stinesville, Indiana, please do not hesitate to contact me.

What types of criminal cases does Jeff Cardella focus on?

I provide criminal defense represenation on a wide range of criminal matters but I specialize in the following areas of law:

  • Alcohol offenses

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

  • 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

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.

  • Property crimes

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

  • 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.

  • White collar crimes

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

  • Breach of the peace crimes

I represent people who have been accused of breach of the peace crimes, including disorderly conduct, resisting law enforcement, trespassing and neglect of a dependent.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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

Facing criminal charges in Monroe County can be overwhelming, especially given the unique aspects of the local justice system centered in Bloomington. With Indiana University influencing the area, many cases involve students dealing with issues like marijuana possession or public intoxication, requiring a nuanced approach to defense. A skilled criminal defense attorney familiar with the Monroe Circuit Court can guide you through the initial arrest process, which often begins at the Monroe County Jail where bond reviews are promptly scheduled.

The court process typically starts with an initial hearing at the Justice Center, where plea options are discussed early on. If your case involves evidence from a traffic stop, such as in OWI cases common around campus areas, pursuing suppression hearings to challenge unlawful searches can be crucial. Experienced representation ensures thorough preparation for these hearings, potentially leading to dismissed charges or favorable plea agreements tailored to Monroe County’s prosecutorial tendencies.

For misdemeanor offenses like theft or battery, depositions of witnesses may be arranged to build a strong defense narrative. In Monroe County, where community programs like pretrial diversion are available for first-time offenders in drug possession matters, an attorney can negotiate alternatives to trial. Ultimately, whether heading to a jury trial in one of the circuit courtrooms or resolving through mediation, having local insight into judges and procedures can make a significant difference in outcomes.

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. Click the following link to learn more about affordable criminal defense representation in Monroe County, Indiana. 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:
Criminal Defense Attorney with Payment Plans, Buy Now Pay Later, and Affordable Legal Representation

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

I provide dedicated representation, focusing on challenging evidence from sobriety tests common in university areas. My approach includes reasonable fees and personalized strategies to minimize impacts on your license and your record.

How can a public intoxication lawyer in Monroe County help me?

A public intoxication charge can arise from events around Indiana University, and I offer skilled defense to navigate these situations effectively. I work to achieve dismissals or reduced penalties. My services come with affordable rates, ensuring quality representation without financial strain.

Do I need a marijuana possession criminal attorney in Bloomington?

Marijuana possession cases are frequent in Bloomington due to the student population, and hiring a knowledgeable criminal attorney can make a big difference. I focus on exploring diversion programs available in Monroe County for eligible clients. My reasonable fees allow access to top-tier defense tailored to your needs.

What does a theft defense attorney in Monroe County do?

As a defense attorney, I investigate the circumstances to build a strong case for your defense. I negotiate with prosecutors and aim for favorable outcomes. Clients appreciate my competitive pricing and my commitment to protecting their future.

How can a battery criminal lawyer in Bloomington assist after an arrest?

After a battery arrest in Bloomington, a criminal lawyer like myself can guide you through bond hearings and negotiations. I leverage my litigation experience to challenge witness statements. My fees are designed to be reasonable, providing high-quality service to all clients.

What is the role of a disorderly conduct attorney in Monroe County?

Disorderly conduct charges often stem from campus gatherings in Monroe County, and an attorney can help mitigate consequences. I provide thorough representation. With affordable payment options, I ensure dedicated defense for your case.

Do I require a resisting arrest criminal defense attorney in Bloomington?

Resisting arrest can complicate other charges in Bloomington, and a criminal defense attorney is key to addressing police conduct. My reasonable fees make expert help accessible for protecting your rights.

How does a drug paraphernalia lawyer in Monroe County handle cases?

Drug paraphernalia charges are common in student-heavy areas like Bloomington, and a lawyer can pursue alternatives to conviction. I offer strategic defense and my clients benefit from my competitive rates and focus on positive resolutions.

What can an underage drinking criminal attorney in Bloomington do for me?

Underage drinking citations around Indiana University require a criminal attorney versed in Monroe County leniencies for minors. I work to secure educational diversions where possible. My services are priced reasonably to support young clients effectively.

Why hire a trespassing defense attorney in Monroe County?

Trespassing incidents in Monroe County may involve property near campus, and a defense attorney can argue intent effectively. I provide comprehensive support through the legal process. With flexible and affordable fees, I prioritize achieving the best possible outcome for you.

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

Bloomington, Monroe County, Indiana Courthouse

The criminal justice system in Monroe County is primarily operated out of the Justice Center in Bloomington, which houses the circuit courts, clerk’s office, and jail. This centralized location facilitates efficient handling of cases, with community corrections and probation nearby to support alternative sentencing options.

  • Monroe County Circuit Court
    Address: 301 North College Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47404
    Phone: (812) 349-2614
  • Monroe County Clerk’s Office
    Address: 301 North College Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47404
    Phone: (812) 349-2600
  • Monroe County Jail
    Address: 301 North College Avenue, Bloomington, IN 47404
    Phone: (812) 349-2750
  • Monroe County Probation Department
    Address: 214 W. 7th Street, Suite 200, Bloomington, IN 47404
    Phone: (812) 349-2000
  • Monroe County Community Corrections
    Address: 405 W. 7th St., Bloomington, IN 47404
    Phone: (812) 349-2000


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