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 La Porte, LaPorte County, Indiana

La Porte, the county seat of LaPorte County, Indiana, is a city of approximately 22,000 residents, situated in the northwest corner of the state near the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its historic downtown, vibrant community festivals, and proximity to both industrial hubs and natural attractions like Pine Lake, La Porte serves as the heart of a county that blends urban and rural elements. The criminal justice system in LaPorte County is a complex, interconnected network comprising the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections, each playing a critical role in maintaining public safety and addressing legal issues. This system operates within the unique context of LaPorte County, where economic diversity, a history of manufacturing, and challenges like substance abuse shape local crime trends. Below, we explore each component of the criminal justice system, emphasizing their specific functions in La Porte and LaPorte County, while incorporating details that reflect the area’s distinct identity and challenges.

The LaPorte County Circuit Court and Superior Courts form the cornerstone of the judicial system, handling a wide range of criminal cases from minor misdemeanors to serious felonies. The Circuit Court, located at 813 Lincolnway in downtown La Porte, is presided over by an elected judge and serves as the primary venue for major criminal cases, such as violent crimes or significant drug offenses, which are particularly relevant given the county’s efforts to combat opioid and methamphetamine use. The Superior Courts, split into four divisions, are spread between La Porte and Michigan City, reflecting the county’s dual urban centers. Superior Court 1, based in Michigan City, often focuses on cases involving drug-related offenses and DUIs, a response to the county’s proximity to major highways like I-94, which can facilitate drug trafficking. Superior Court 3, meanwhile, houses the county’s Problem-Solving Courts, including a Drug Court that integrates treatment with judicial oversight, a program tailored to LaPorte County’s need to address addiction as a root cause of crime. The courts’ locations in La Porte’s historic district, surrounded by red-brick buildings and community landmarks, underscore their role as central institutions in a county proud of its heritage. Individuals navigating these courts often seek guidance from a defense attorney to understand the intricacies of local judicial processes.

The LaPorte County Prosecutor’s Office, situated on the fifth floor of the county complex at 809 State Street, is responsible for representing the state in criminal prosecutions. Led by an elected prosecuting attorney, the office determines which cases to pursue, what charges to file, and whether to offer plea agreements. In LaPorte County, the prosecutor’s office is particularly focused on addressing crimes linked to the area’s economic and social challenges, such as property crimes tied to economic hardship or drug offenses fueled by the opioid crisis. The office works closely with local law enforcement, including the La Porte Police Department and the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office, to build cases that reflect community priorities. For instance, the prosecutor may emphasize diversion programs for non-violent offenders, aligning with La Porte’s commitment to rehabilitation in a county where manufacturing jobs at companies like American Licorice Company provide opportunities for reintegration. The office also prioritizes victim advocacy, ensuring that residents of tight-knit neighborhoods in La Porte and Michigan City feel heard. Those facing charges may consult a criminal attorney to navigate the prosecutor’s strategies and ensure their rights are protected within this locally driven system.

The LaPorte County Jail, located at 809 State Street in La Porte, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. With a capacity to house around 300 inmates, the jail often operates at or near full capacity, reflecting the county’s challenges with drug-related arrests and property crimes. Unlike larger urban facilities, the LaPorte County Jail is tailored to the county’s needs, offering limited but targeted programs like substance abuse counseling and job skills training to address the needs of inmates, many of whom are local residents. The jail’s proximity to the courthouse facilitates efficient court appearances, a practical necessity in a county where resources are stretched thin. LaPorte County’s jail also participates in a regional approach to incarceration, occasionally transferring inmates to neighboring counties when overcrowding occurs, a practice shaped by the county’s cooperative relationships with nearby jurisdictions. For those detained, working with a criminal lawyer can be essential in navigating pre-trial processes, such as bail hearings, which are influenced by the county’s judicial workload and local policies.

The Adult Probation Department in LaPorte County, with offices in both La Porte and Michigan City, oversees individuals sentenced to probation as an alternative to incarceration. Led by a chief probation officer, the department operates as an arm of the courts, providing services like pretrial assessments, supervision, and support for Problem-Solving Courts. In LaPorte County, probation is a critical tool for reducing jail overcrowding and promoting rehabilitation, particularly for non-violent offenders involved in drug or alcohol-related crimes. Probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Swanson Center for mental health services, to develop supervision plans that address underlying issues like addiction or economic instability. For example, probationers may be required to participate in community service at local events like the La Porte County Fair, reinforcing ties to the community. The department’s pretrial services, established under Indiana Criminal Rule 26 in 2020, emphasize risk-informed release decisions, a progressive approach that reflects La Porte’s commitment to balancing public safety with individual rights. Those on probation may engage a criminal defense attorney to address compliance issues or modifications to their probation terms, ensuring adherence to court expectations.

LaPorte County Community Corrections, based at 0368 South Zigler Road in La Porte, provides alternatives to traditional incarceration, offering programs like home detention, work release, and day reporting. In a county with a strong manufacturing base, including companies like Weil-McLain, community corrections programs are designed to allow offenders to maintain employment while serving their sentences, a critical factor in a region where economic stability is a priority. For instance, participants in the work release program might continue working at local factories, contributing to the economy while meeting court requirements. The program also incorporates drug testing and counseling, addressing the county’s persistent substance abuse issues, which are exacerbated by its location near major transportation routes. LaPorte County’s Community Corrections is notable for its use of evidence-based practices, such as risk assessments to tailor interventions, and its collaboration with local stakeholders, including judges, probation officers, and mental health providers. This collaborative approach is particularly effective in a county where community involvement, from the annual Sunflower Fair to volunteer-driven initiatives, is a hallmark. Individuals in these programs often work with a criminal defense lawyer to navigate program requirements and ensure their rights are upheld.

LaPorte County’s criminal justice system operates within a broader context shaped by the county’s unique characteristics. The area’s proximity to Lake Michigan and its role as a gateway to Northwest Indiana give it a distinct identity, blending industrial activity with recreational attractions like the Indiana Dunes. The county’s economy, driven by manufacturing and small businesses, creates both opportunities and challenges, as economic fluctuations can contribute to property crimes and substance abuse. La Porte’s historic charm, evident in its tree-lined streets and preserved architecture, reflects a community that values its heritage while addressing modern issues. The criminal justice system is deeply embedded in this context, with courts and community corrections programs partnering with local organizations to provide support services, such as job training through WorkOne Northwest Indiana. The county’s diverse population, including a significant Hispanic community, also influences the system, with bilingual services offered in some court and probation settings to ensure accessibility.

The criminal justice system in La Porte faces challenges unique to a county of its size and location. Limited funding means that facilities like the jail and probation office must operate efficiently, often relying on regional partnerships to manage resources. The opioid epidemic, a persistent issue in Northwest Indiana, has prompted the courts and prosecutor’s office to adopt innovative measures, such as the Drug Court and pretrial services, aimed at rehabilitation rather than punishment. These initiatives are tailored to LaPorte County’s needs, recognizing that many offenders are local residents who will remain part of the community. The system’s emphasis on evidence-based practices, from probation to community corrections, reflects La Porte’s forward-thinking approach, even as it grapples with the practical realities of a rural-urban divide. The county’s dual urban centers, La Porte and Michigan City, create logistical challenges, requiring coordination between facilities to ensure equitable access to services.

Navigating the criminal justice system in LaPorte County requires an understanding of its localized dynamics. The courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections each play a distinct role, but their interconnectedness reflects La Porte’s community-oriented ethos. For those facing charges, a defense attorney familiar with the local system can provide valuable insight into the nuances of LaPorte County’s judicial processes. Similarly, a criminal attorney can offer guidance through complex plea negotiations or probation requirements, ensuring individuals are well-represented in a system that prioritizes both accountability and rehabilitation. The criminal justice system in La Porte is not just a set of institutions but a reflection of the county’s values, challenges, and commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive community.

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

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in La Porte, LaPorte 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 La Porte, LaPorte County, Indiana.