Criminal Attorney in Madison County, IN
Jeff Cardella

Criminal Attorney, Madison County, Indiana Jeff Cardella Serving Anderson, Elwood and Alexandria

If you are in need of a top rated criminal defense attorney in Anderson, Madison 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 Madison 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 Anderson, Elwood or Alexandria, 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 Madison County Criminal Attorney

When facing criminal charges in Madison County, Indiana, understanding the local court system is crucial. The Madison County courts, primarily located in the Government Center in Anderson, handle a variety of cases including OWI, drug possession, theft, and domestic battery. As a dedicated criminal defense attorney, Jeff Cardella can guide you through the initial arraignment, where bond is set and pleas are entered, often in one of the six circuit court divisions or the city courts in Anderson or Elwood for misdemeanor offenses.

In Madison County, plea agreements are common for resolving cases efficiently, but if your situation involves evidence that may be suppressible, such as in marijuana possession or public intoxication matters, a suppression hearing could be key to your defense. Jeff Cardella’s experience ensures thorough preparation for these hearings, challenging any unlawful searches or seizures specific to local law enforcement practices in areas like Elwood or Alexandria.

For more serious misdemeanor or low-level felony charges like battery or disorderly conduct, depositions of witnesses might be necessary to build a strong case. The county’s Problem Solving Court, which includes drug court options, provides alternatives to traditional sentencing for qualifying individuals, and Jeff Cardella can advocate for your participation to potentially reduce penalties. Trials in Madison County are held in the circuit courts, where jury selection reflects the local community, requiring a tailored approach to achieve the best outcome.

Bond reviews are another important aspect, especially if you’re detained at the Madison County Jail in Anderson. Jeff Cardella works diligently to argue for reduced bond or release on recognizance, considering factors unique to Madison County such as community ties in smaller towns like Alexandria. With his commitment to personalized representation, you can navigate these processes confidently.

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 Madison 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 do if arrested for OWI and need a defense attorney in Madison County?

If you’ve been arrested for OWI in Madison County, contacting an experienced defense attorney like Jeff Cardella right away is essential. He can review the details of your stop and challenge any issues with field sobriety tests or breathalyzers. With his strong track record, Jeff provides personalized strategies to minimize impacts on your license and criminal record, all at reasonable fees tailored to your case.

How can a marijuana possession lawyer in Anderson help with my case?

A skilled drug lawyer can assist by examining the circumstances of your arrest for potential violations of your rights. Jeff can also challenge inadequate evidence of possession. His reasonable rates make quality representation accessible for these common charges.

Do I need a theft criminal attorney in Madison County for shoplifting charges?

Hiring a criminal attorney is advisable for shoplifting charges to protect your future. Jeff Cardella can work on dismissals or reduced plea deals. Jeff’s dedicated approach ensures thorough defense, with flexible payment options to fit your budget.

What does a public intoxication criminal lawyer in Elwood do?

A criminal lawyer like Jeff Cardella defends against alcohol charges by questioning evidence, officer observations, and having a thorough understanding of the underlying public intoxication law. Jeff advocates for reduced penalties or acquittals. His reasonable fees and positive client feedback make him a top choice for these misdemeanor matters.

How does a battery defense attorney in Madison County handle domestic cases?

A battery defense attorney in, such as Jeff Cardella, handles domestic cases by gathering witness statements, exploring self-defense claims, and challenging the credibility of the accuser. Jeff’s experience in these case often leads to positive results. He offers affordable representation to ensure you receive strong advocacy without financial strain.

Why choose a disorderly conduct criminal defense attorney in Alexandria?

Choosing a criminal defense attorney in like Jeff Cardella ensures expert navigation in court. Jeff can help work for a positive outcome through skilled negotiation. Jeff’s commitment to his clients and his reasonable pricing provide excellent value.

What can a paraphernalia possession lawyer in Madison County offer?

A lawyer like Jeff Cardella offers defenses by challenging search legality in local stops. Jeff seeks dismissals or reduced charges. He has a thorough understanding of the law and challenges intent in paraphernalia cases. His fees are competitive, making top-tier service available for these low-level offenses.

How does a resisting law enforcement criminal attorney in Anderson assist?

A criminal attorney, such as Jeff Cardella, assists by reviewing body cam footage for overreach. Jeff also has a good understanding of the underlying law, which often leads to reduced charges or acquittals. His flexible payment plans make quality defense possible.

Do I need a trespassing defense lawyer in Madison County?

A defense lawyer in like Jeff Cardella can help avoid convictions that affect employment. He negotiates with local authorities on your behalf and his reasonable rates ensure effective representation.

What benefits come from hiring a minor consumption criminal lawyer in Alexandria?

Jeff Cardella explores options that will result in dismissal and expungement options. He provides compassionate guidance at affordable costs.

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

Anderson, Madison County, Indiana Courthouse

The Madison County courts system includes circuit and superior courts handling criminal matters, with city courts in Anderson and Elwood for certain misdemeanors. Located centrally in Anderson, these facilities ensure accessible justice for residents.

  • Madison County Circuit Court
    Address: 16 E 9th Street, Anderson, IN 46016
    Phone: (765) 641-9503
  • Madison County Clerk
    Address: 16 E 9th St, Anderson, IN 46016
    Phone: (765) 641-9443
  • Madison County Jail
    Address: 720 Central Avenue, Anderson, IN 46016
    Phone: (765) 646-9285
  • Madison County Probation Department
    Address: 16 E 9th Street, Anderson, IN 46016
    Phone: (765) 641-9546
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