Criminal Attorney in Hancock County, IN
Jeff Cardella

Criminal Attorney, Hancock County, Indiana Jeff Cardella Serving Greenfield, McCordsville and Fortville

If you are in need of a top rated criminal defense attorney in Greenfield, Hancock 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 Hancock 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 Greenfield, McCordsville or Fortville, Indiana, please do not hesitate to contact me.

What areas of criminal law does Jeff Cardella specialize in?

I provide criminal defense represenation on a wide range of criminal matters and 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 Hancock County Criminal Attorney

Being accused of a crime in Hancock County, Indiana, often feels stressful and confusing, yet working with an experienced local criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the system with greater confidence and clarity.
Cases usually start with an initial hearing in one of the Hancock County Superior Courts or Circuit Court, located in the historic courthouse at 9 East Main Street in Greenfield. Judges quickly review bond and release conditions, aiming to resolve pretrial detention matters efficiently while protecting your rights.
For charges like OWI, drug-related offenses, or those stemming from traffic stops along I-70 or local roads near Greenfield, challenging evidence through suppression motions can prove vital. These hearings allow skilled attorneys to question the validity of searches or stops and potentially weaken the prosecution’s case early on.
Negotiated resolutions through plea discussions happen frequently in Hancock County. Prosecutors and defense counsel collaborate to reach fair outcomes that avoid lengthy trials when appropriate, saving time and reducing uncertainty for everyone involved.
In matters involving theft, battery, or similar accusations, taking witness depositions offers a strategic way to lock in testimony and strengthen your position before any trial. This step helps craft a defense that accounts for the unique dynamics of Hancock County’s judicial environment.
Hancock County provides alternatives through its Community Corrections programs, including home detention with GPS monitoring, work release options, and other supervised placements. A knowledgeable attorney can effectively advocate for these during sentencing to minimize jail time and support rehabilitation where possible.
Jury trials, when needed, occur in the Greenfield courthouse facilities. Local residents from communities across the county form the jury pool, bringing a balanced perspective rooted in the area’s values.

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 Hancock 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 expect when hiring a DUI attorney in Greenfield?

A skilled attorney like Jeff Cardella can provide you with dedicated representation tailored to your case. With a deep understanding of OWI procedures in the area, I work to challenge evidence and negotiate outcomes that minimize impact on your life. My reasonable fees ensure quality defense without breaking the bank, and I prioritize clear communication throughout your case.

How can a drug possession lawyer in Hancock County assist me?

A knowledgeable drug possession lawyer such as Jeff Cardella can help navigate the complexities of drug charges by exploring all your options, including supression, trial, and diversion programs. I focus on building a strong defense, potentially leading to reduced charges or dismissals, drawing on experience with similar cases. My approach includes affordable options to make effective legal help possible.

Why choose a theft criminal attorney in McCordsville?

Choosing a criminal attorney like Jeff Cardella means getting personalized attention to your case. I strive to achieve positive  results through thorough preparation and negotiation, helping clients avoid severe consequences. With competitive rates, I make sure that top-tier defense is within reach for those allegations of criminal conduct.

What does a public intoxication defense attorney do in Hancock County?

A defense attorney like Jeff Cardella works to protect your rights in Hancock County by examining the circumstances of your arrest and seeking favorable resolutions. I aim to mitigate penalties through strategic advocacy. My services come at reasonable costs, ensuring you receive committed representation.

How does a battery lawyer in Fortville handle cases?

A lawyer such as Jeff Cardella handles cases by thoroughly investigating incidents and developing robust defenses suited to your case. I focus on client-centered strategies that often result in positive outcomes like charge reductions. Offering fair pricing, I ensure accessible legal support for those in need.

What benefits come from a disorderly conduct criminal lawyer in Greenfield?

Hiring a criminal lawyer like Jeff Cardella brings benefits such as expert guidance and effective negotiating. With a track record of advocating for clients in similar situations, I help preserve your record and future opportunities. My fees are designed to be affordable while delivering high-quality service.

How can a marijuana possession defense attorney help in Hancock County?

A drug lawyer like Jeff Cardella can assist in Hancock County by leveraging knowledge of evolving laws and local enforcement trends to build your case. I work diligently to explore alternatives to conviction, such as community programs in the area.  

What role does a trespassing criminal defense attorney play in McCordsville?

A trespassing criminal defense attorney such as Jeff Cardella plays a key role in McCordsville by contesting charges and seeking dismissals based on evidence review in Hancock County courts. I offer insightful counsel to navigate the system smoothly, aiming for the least disruptive resolutions. My reasonable fee structure makes professional defense attainable.

Why hire a resisting law enforcement lawyer in Hancock County?

Hiring a resisting law enforcement lawyer like Jeff Cardella in Hancock County ensures you have an advocate who understands the nuances of such charges in local contexts. I focus on defending your actions and negotiating with prosecutors for better terms. With affordable rates, I provide dedicated support to resolve your matter favorably.

How does a vandalism criminal attorney assist clients in Fortville?

A vandalism criminal attorney like Jeff Cardella assists clients in Fortville by crafting defenses that address the specifics of the incident within Hancock County’s framework. I prioritize achieving outcomes that protect your reputation and future, using thorough preparation. My services are priced reasonably to offer value-driven legal assistance.

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

Greenfield, Hancock County, Indiana Courthouse

The criminal justice system in Hancock County, Indiana, is centered in Greenfield at the Judicial Center, which includes the Circuit Court handling major felonies and two Superior Courts managing misdemeanors and lower-level offenses.

  • Hancock County Circuit Court
    Address: 9 E Main St, Room 216, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1105
  • Hancock County Superior Court 1
    Address: 9 E Main St, Room 213, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1107
  • Hancock County Superior Court 2
    Address: 9 E Main St, Room 206, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1108
  • Hancock County Clerk
    Address: 9 E Main St, Suite 200, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1109
  • Hancock County Jail
    Address: 123 East Main Street, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1150
  • Hancock County Probation Department
    Address: 9 East Main Street, Suite 106, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1130
  • Hancock County Community Corrections
    Address: 123 East Main Street, Suite 102, Greenfield, IN 46140
    Phone: 317-477-1134

Contact Hancock County, Indiana Criminal Defense Attorney Jeff Cardella for a Free Consultation

If you have questions about a criminal case in Greenfield, McCordsville or Fortville, Indiana, call my office for a free consultation to discuss your legal matter.

Phone: 317-695-7700

Email: jeffcardella@cardellalawoffice.com

Address: 350 Massachusetts Ave #357, Indianapolis, IN 46204

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