Criminal Attorney in Johnson County, IN
Jeff Cardella

Criminal Attorney, Johnson County, Indiana Jeff Cardella Serving Franklin, Greenwood and Bargersville

If you are in need of a top rated criminal defense attorney in Franklin, Johnson 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 Johnson 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 Franklin, Greenwood or Bargersville, Indiana, please do not hesitate to contact me.

What types of criminal cases does Criminal Attorney 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 Johnson County Criminal Attorney

In Johnson County, Indiana, facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, but having an experienced criminal attorney by your side can make a significant difference. The process often begins with an arrest, followed by a bond review where the court determines if you can be released while your case is pending. In Franklin, the county seat, bond hearings are typically held in the Johnson County Circuit Court or one of the Superior Courts, and factors like the severity of the offense, such as theft or battery, and your ties to the community are considered.

After the initial hearing, your case may involve discovery, where evidence is exchanged, and possibly depositions to gather witness statements. For charges like DUI or public intoxication, suppression hearings are common to challenge evidence obtained during the stop or arrest. Johnson County’s courts emphasize efficiency, and many cases resolve through plea agreements negotiated in pretrial conferences, avoiding the need for a full trial.

If your case proceeds to trial, it could be a bench trial in Superior Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court, depending on the charge level, such as misdemeanor drug possession or felony marijuana charges. Greenwood, as a major city in the county, sees a high volume of these cases, and local procedures may include specialized dockets for substance-related offenses. Working with a knowledgeable defense attorney ensures your rights are protected throughout, from challenging probable cause in OWI cases to seeking alternative resolutions like diversion programs available in Johnson County.

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 Johnson 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 a DUI lawyer in Johnson County?

When facing a DUI charge in Johnson County, it’s crucial to choose a lawyer with extensive experience in Indiana’s courts. I provide dedicated representation, focusing on challenging evidence and negotiating favorable outcomes. My approach ensures you receive personalized attention and reasonable fees tailored to your case.

How can a public intoxication attorney in Greenwood assist me?

If you are charged with public intoxication, an experienced attorney can help by reviewing the circumstances of your arrest and exploring defenses. Even when no legal defenses exist, dismissal through a diversion is still possible. I am committed to protecting your rights and seeking the best possible resolution. My reasonable fees make quality defense possible.

What defenses are available for drug possession with a criminal lawyer in Johnson County?

Drug possession charges in Johnson County require a strong defense strategy, such as questioning the legality of the search and the elements of constructive possession. As your criminal lawyer, I will thoroughly investigate your case to build a solid defense. My reasonable fees ensure you get top-notch representation without financial strain.

Why hire a theft defense attorney in Franklin?

A theft charge can have lasting consequences, but a skilled defense attorney can negotiate reductions or even dismissals. I offer compassionate and effective representation to help mitigate the impact of a criminal case on your life and future.

How does a battery criminal defense attorney in Johnson County handle cases?

For battery charges a criminal defense attorney can argue self-defense or lack of intent. I am dedicated to providing vigorous advocacy and exploring all the options for your case. My fees are reasonable, making high-quality defense available.

What role does a disorderly conduct lawyer play in Greenwood?

Disorderly conduct has strict legal definitions and a lawyer can help clarify the law and facts in court. I focus on achieving positive results through litigation and skilled negotiation. Reasonable fees ensure you can afford experienced representation.

Can a marijuana possession criminal attorney in Johnson County help reduce penalties?

Marijuana possession charges in Johnson County may qualify for alternative programs, and a criminal attorney can advocate for leniency. I provide thorough and supportive legal guidance to minimize consequences. With reasonable fees, I make effective defense accessible.

How can an OWI defense lawyer in Franklin support my case?

Fighting an OWI case requires challenging field sobriety tests and breathalyzer results. I am committed to fighting for your rights and seeking the best outcome possible in your case. My reasonable fees help you navigate this complex area of law.

What should I expect from a trespassing criminal defense attorney in Johnson County?

Trespassing charges can often be resolved favorably with proper representation. As your criminal defense attorney, I will work diligently to protect your interests. Reasonable fees ensure quality service for clients facing these allegations.

How does a resisting law enforcement lawyer assist in Greenwood?

Resisting law enforcement representation generally involves reviewing police conduct and a knowledgeable lawyer can build a strong defense. I offer experienced and reliable representation to help resolve your case. With reasonable fees, I support clients throughout the Court process.

Why choose a minor consumption criminal attorney in Johnson County?

Minor consumption charges can affect your future, but a criminal attorney can seek diversions or dismissals. I am dedicated to providing effective advocacy and positive results. My reasonable fees make high quality legal representation attainable in Johnson County.

What can a vandalism defense lawyer do for me in Franklin?

Vandalism requires a defense lawyer to investigate intent and evidence. I provide committed representation to achieve a positive and my reasonable fees ensure you receive quality defense without excessive cost.

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

Franklin, Johnson County, Indiana Courthouse

The Johnson County courts, centered in Franklin, handle a range of criminal matters through the Circuit Court and multiple Superior Courts, ensuring efficient case processing. Specialized services like community corrections offer alternatives to incarceration for eligible offenders.

  • Johnson County Circuit Court
    Address: 5 E Jefferson St, Franklin, IN 46131
    Phone: (317) 346-4400
  • Johnson County Clerk’s Office
    Address: 5 E Jefferson St, Franklin, IN 46131
    Phone: (317) 346-4450
  • Johnson County Jail
    Address: 1091 Hospital Rd, Franklin, IN 46131
    Phone: (317) 736-9155
  • Johnson County Adult Probation
    Address: 101 E Jefferson St, Franklin, IN 46131
    Phone: (317) 346-4511
  • Johnson County Community Corrections
    Address: 1071 Hospital Rd, Franklin, IN 46131
    Phone: (317) 346-4720
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