If you are in need of a top tier criminal defense attorney in Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana, call me at 317-695-7700 for a free consultation. I have been a criminal attorney in Indiana for my entire legal career, have almost two decades of experience and taught criminal law at the IU School of Law.
My office has been recognized as one of the Ten Best Law Firms in the State of Indiana by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, I was selected as one of the Top 100 Attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers Association, my office has been recognized as one of the Top 10 Law Firms in the State of Indiana by the American Association of Attorney Advocates, and I have been recognized as one of the Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys in the State under the age of forty by the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys. I taught criminal law at the Indiana University School of Law and served as a Judge pro tem in Indiana. 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 handled 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 Metro 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.
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. My office routinely handles a variety of case types. Some of the most common case types that I handle are DUI, drug possession, dealing, white collar offenses, federal drug trafficking charges, possession of a controlled substance, public intoxication, theft, battery, possession of marijuana, domestic battery, resisting law enforcement, disorderly conduct, criminal mischief, trespass, possession of methamphetamine, dealing in methamphetamine, driving while suspended, burglary, robbery, fraud, forgery, invasion of privacy, intimidation, pointing a firearm, operating a vehicle with a suspended license, possession of paraphernalia, maintaining a common nuisance, neglect of a dependent, dealing in a controlled substance, possession of cocaine, dealing in cocaine, murder, homicide, sex and prostitution offenses, operating a vehicle after being adjudged a habitual traffic offender, leaving the scene of an accident, reckless driving, criminal recklessness, stalking, arson, auto theft, check deception, and welfare fraud.
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.
For additional information, please click on any of the following links:
Criminal Defense Attorney in Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana ~ Jeff Cardella
The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana
How much do you charge for criminal defense representation in Indiana
The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana
Pike County, Indiana, with its county seat in Petersburg, is a rural community of approximately 12,000 residents, nestled in the southwestern part of the state, about 30 miles northeast of Evansville. Petersburg, a small town of around 2,300, serves as the county’s hub, known for its quiet charm, agricultural heritage, and proximity to the Patoka River, which supports fishing and outdoor recreation. The county’s economy relies heavily on farming, coal mining, and small businesses, with landmarks like the Pike County Fairgrounds hosting events such as the annual fair and the Pike County Dogwood Festival, celebrating local culture with parades and crafts. Pike County’s rolling hills, dotted with cornfields and historic sites like the Pike County Courthouse, a Romanesque Revival structure built in 1922, foster a tight-knit community where the criminal justice system—encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections—operates with a distinct rural character, balancing limited resources with innovative programs. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in Petersburg, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.
The Pike County court system is a compact framework designed to manage a modest caseload, reflecting the county’s small population and rural setting. The county operates one Circuit Court, located at 801 Main Street in Petersburg, within the historic Pike County Courthouse, a central landmark in the town’s downtown, surrounded by local shops and the Petersburg City Park. The Circuit Court, presided over by an elected judge, handles felony cases, juvenile matters, and civil disputes, including probate and family law, serving as the primary venue for all criminal proceedings in the county. Unlike larger counties with multiple courts, Pike County’s single court processes both serious and minor offenses, managing approximately 2,500 cases annually, with a focus on efficiency and community engagement. Common offenses include OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug possession, and theft, influenced by Pike County’s rural roads and proximity to State Road 57, which sees occasional drug trafficking. The court’s Drug and Alcohol Deferral Program, a unique initiative, allows first-time drug offenders to avoid conviction through treatment and monitoring, addressing the county’s challenges with methamphetamine and opioid abuse. A criminal defense attorney in Petersburg must navigate this single-court system, adapting to its broad jurisdiction and the community-oriented approach of local judges.
The Pike County Prosecutor’s Office, also housed in the Courthouse at 801 Main Street, is a critical component of the criminal justice system, representing the State of Indiana in all criminal prosecutions. Led by an elected prosecuting attorney and supported by a small team, the office handles a diverse caseload, with a focus on OWI, drug offenses, and property crimes, reflecting Pike County’s rural character and economic challenges. The office reviews complaints from law enforcement agencies, such as the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Petersburg Police Department, deciding whether to file charges. It also manages juvenile delinquency cases and operates a Child Support Division, assisting families in a county with a significant agricultural workforce. The office’s Pretrial Diversion Program targets first-time misdemeanor offenders, offering alternatives to prosecution through community service or restitution, reducing court congestion. A victim assistance coordinator provides dedicated support to those affected by crime, emphasizing Petersburg’s commitment to community welfare despite limited resources. A criminal lawyer in Petersburg frequently engages with this office, negotiating on behalf of clients facing charges like DUI or theft, in a system that balances accountability with fairness while respecting constitutional rights.
The Pike County Jail, located at 100 South 4th Street in Petersburg, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, the jail is a modest facility with a capacity of approximately 100 inmates, designed to accommodate the county’s law enforcement needs. The jail houses pre-trial detainees and those convicted of minor offenses, with common charges including OWI, drug possession, and public intoxication, driven by the county’s rural roads and community events like the Dogwood Festival. The facility offers basic services, such as medical care and religious programs, and emphasizes rehabilitation through partnerships with local recovery groups, addressing the county’s substance abuse issues. The Sheriff’s Department maintains a strong community presence, with deputies participating in events like the Pike County Fair, fostering trust with residents. Overcrowding is managed through coordination with community corrections or transfers to nearby counties like Dubois or Warrick when necessary. A criminal defense lawyer in Petersburg often interacts with the jail to arrange bail or client visits, navigating its procedures in a facility that balances security with community-oriented sheriff services.
The Pike County Probation Department, also based in the Courthouse at 801 Main Street, oversees individuals placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration or following a sentence. Staffed by a small team of certified probation officers, the department serves the Circuit Court, managing a caseload that includes adults and juveniles. The department focuses on reducing recidivism through conditions like drug testing, community service, and regular check-ins, tailored to individual needs. In Petersburg, probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Pike County Health Department and community churches, to provide addiction treatment and mental health support, addressing the county’s challenges with substance abuse. The Juvenile Probation Division works closely with Pike Central High School and other local schools to support at-risk youth through mentoring and educational programs, often involving community service at local sites like Hornady Park or the county fairgrounds. Probationers may participate in community initiatives, such as volunteering at the Pike County Historical Society or maintaining trails at Prides Creek Park, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in Petersburg works closely with the probation department to ensure clients comply with conditions or address violations, navigating a system that balances rehabilitation with accountability in a resource-constrained community.
Pike County Community Corrections, also operating from the Courthouse at 801 Main Street, provides alternatives to traditional incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing jail overcrowding. The program offers options like home detention, electronic monitoring, and work release, allowing offenders to maintain employment or family responsibilities while serving their sentences. In Pike County, the program partners with local employers, such as agricultural businesses or small manufacturers like Jasper Engines, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s farming and industrial economy. The Community Corrections Advisory Board ensures the program aligns with local needs, particularly addressing OWI and drug-related offenses, which are significant due to the county’s rural roads and limited law enforcement presence. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the Pike County 4-H program or cleaning up facilities at Prides Creek Lake. The program’s emphasis on substance abuse counseling and GPS monitoring, often ordered in lieu of jail time, promotes community safety and reduces recidivism. A criminal attorney representing clients in this program must understand its specific requirements, such as monitoring protocols, to ensure compliance. The program’s focus on reintegration, leveraging Pike County’s community resources, distinguishes its approach from more punitive systems in urban counties.
Pike County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as a small, rural county with a strong agricultural base and a close-knit community, with Petersburg serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The historic Pike County Courthouse fosters collaboration among courts, prosecutors, probation, and community corrections, but the county’s limited budget requires efficient resource management. The county’s challenges with OWI and drug-related crimes, driven by its rural isolation and access to State Road 57, influence the priorities of each component, from the prosecutor’s diversion programs to the jail’s rehabilitation efforts. The Drug and Alcohol Deferral Program and Juvenile Probation initiatives reflect Pike County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse and youth delinquency despite resource constraints. A criminal defense lawyer in Petersburg must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its rural dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like the Patoka River and the Dogwood Festival, and its economic reliance on agriculture and mining shape a justice system that balances accountability with opportunities for reform.
The interplay of these components—courts, prosecutors, jail, probation, and community corrections—creates a criminal justice system that reflects Pike County’s distinct identity. The Circuit Court provides a centralized legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach, while the prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring diversion programs to manage resources. The jail serves as a temporary holding facility, with efforts to address capacity through community corrections, which promotes reintegration through local employment opportunities. The probation department bridges punishment and rehabilitation, leveraging Petersburg’s limited but dedicated resources to address issues like addiction and youth challenges. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its rural charm and community spirit. For individuals facing charges in Petersburg, a criminal lawyer familiar with Pike County’s system is essential for navigating its unique challenges, from the historic courthouse to the innovative community corrections program.
Pike County, Indiana, with its county seat in Petersburg, is a rural community of approximately 12,000 residents, nestled in the southwestern part of the state, about 30 miles northeast of Evansville. Petersburg, a small town of around 2,300, serves as the county’s hub, known for its quiet charm, agricultural heritage, and proximity to the Patoka River, which supports fishing and outdoor recreation. The county’s economy relies heavily on farming, coal mining, and small businesses, with landmarks like the Pike County Fairgrounds hosting events such as the annual fair and the Pike County Dogwood Festival, celebrating local culture with parades and crafts. Pike County’s rolling hills, dotted with cornfields and historic sites like the Pike County Courthouse, a Romanesque Revival structure built in 1922, foster a tight-knit community where the criminal justice system—encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections—operates with a distinct rural character, balancing limited resources with innovative programs. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in Petersburg, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.
The Pike County court system is a compact framework designed to manage a modest caseload, reflecting the county’s small population and rural setting. The county operates one Circuit Court, located at 801 Main Street in Petersburg, within the historic Pike County Courthouse, a central landmark in the town’s downtown, surrounded by local shops and the Petersburg City Park. The Circuit Court, presided over by an elected judge, handles felony cases, juvenile matters, and civil disputes, including probate and family law, serving as the primary venue for all criminal proceedings in the county. Unlike larger counties with multiple courts, Pike County’s single court processes both serious and minor offenses, managing approximately 2,500 cases annually, with a focus on efficiency and community engagement. Common offenses include OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug possession, and theft, influenced by Pike County’s rural roads and proximity to State Road 57, which sees occasional drug trafficking. The court’s Drug and Alcohol Deferral Program, a unique initiative, allows first-time drug offenders to avoid conviction through treatment and monitoring, addressing the county’s challenges with methamphetamine and opioid abuse. A criminal defense attorney in Petersburg must navigate this single-court system, adapting to its broad jurisdiction and the community-oriented approach of local judges.
The Pike County Prosecutor’s Office, also housed in the Courthouse at 801 Main Street, is a critical component of the criminal justice system, representing the State of Indiana in all criminal prosecutions. Led by an elected prosecuting attorney and supported by a small team, the office handles a diverse caseload, with a focus on OWI, drug offenses, and property crimes, reflecting Pike County’s rural character and economic challenges. The office reviews complaints from law enforcement agencies, such as the Pike County Sheriff’s Department and Petersburg Police Department, deciding whether to file charges. It also manages juvenile delinquency cases and operates a Child Support Division, assisting families in a county with a significant agricultural workforce. The office’s Pretrial Diversion Program targets first-time misdemeanor offenders, offering alternatives to prosecution through community service or restitution, reducing court congestion. A victim assistance coordinator provides dedicated support to those affected by crime, emphasizing Petersburg’s commitment to community welfare despite limited resources. A criminal lawyer in Petersburg frequently engages with this office, negotiating on behalf of clients facing charges like DUI or theft, in a system that balances accountability with fairness while respecting constitutional rights.
The Pike County Jail, located at 100 South 4th Street in Petersburg, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Pike County Sheriff’s Department, the jail is a modest facility with a capacity of approximately 100 inmates, designed to accommodate the county’s law enforcement needs. The jail houses pre-trial detainees and those convicted of minor offenses, with common charges including OWI, drug possession, and public intoxication, driven by the county’s rural roads and community events like the Dogwood Festival. The facility offers basic services, such as medical care and religious programs, and emphasizes rehabilitation through partnerships with local recovery groups, addressing the county’s substance abuse issues. The Sheriff’s Department maintains a strong community presence, with deputies participating in events like the Pike County Fair, fostering trust with residents. Overcrowding is managed through coordination with community corrections or transfers to nearby counties like Dubois or Warrick when necessary. A criminal defense lawyer in Petersburg often interacts with the jail to arrange bail or client visits, navigating its procedures in a facility that balances security with community-oriented sheriff services.
The Pike County Probation Department, also based in the Courthouse at 801 Main Street, oversees individuals placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration or following a sentence. Staffed by a small team of certified probation officers, the department serves the Circuit Court, managing a caseload that includes adults and juveniles. The department focuses on reducing recidivism through conditions like drug testing, community service, and regular check-ins, tailored to individual needs. In Petersburg, probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Pike County Health Department and community churches, to provide addiction treatment and mental health support, addressing the county’s challenges with substance abuse. The Juvenile Probation Division works closely with Pike Central High School and other local schools to support at-risk youth through mentoring and educational programs, often involving community service at local sites like Hornady Park or the county fairgrounds. Probationers may participate in community initiatives, such as volunteering at the Pike County Historical Society or maintaining trails at Prides Creek Park, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in Petersburg works closely with the probation department to ensure clients comply with conditions or address violations, navigating a system that balances rehabilitation with accountability in a resource-constrained community.
Pike County Community Corrections, also operating from the Courthouse at 801 Main Street, provides alternatives to traditional incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing jail overcrowding. The program offers options like home detention, electronic monitoring, and work release, allowing offenders to maintain employment or family responsibilities while serving their sentences. In Pike County, the program partners with local employers, such as agricultural businesses or small manufacturers like Jasper Engines, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s farming and industrial economy. The Community Corrections Advisory Board ensures the program aligns with local needs, particularly addressing OWI and drug-related offenses, which are significant due to the county’s rural roads and limited law enforcement presence. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the Pike County 4-H program or cleaning up facilities at Prides Creek Lake. The program’s emphasis on substance abuse counseling and GPS monitoring, often ordered in lieu of jail time, promotes community safety and reduces recidivism. A criminal attorney representing clients in this program must understand its specific requirements, such as monitoring protocols, to ensure compliance. The program’s focus on reintegration, leveraging Pike County’s community resources, distinguishes its approach from more punitive systems in urban counties.
Pike County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as a small, rural county with a strong agricultural base and a close-knit community, with Petersburg serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The historic Pike County Courthouse fosters collaboration among courts, prosecutors, probation, and community corrections, but the county’s limited budget requires efficient resource management. The county’s challenges with OWI and drug-related crimes, driven by its rural isolation and access to State Road 57, influence the priorities of each component, from the prosecutor’s diversion programs to the jail’s rehabilitation efforts. The Drug and Alcohol Deferral Program and Juvenile Probation initiatives reflect Pike County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse and youth delinquency despite resource constraints. A criminal defense lawyer in Petersburg must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its rural dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like the Patoka River and the Dogwood Festival, and its economic reliance on agriculture and mining shape a justice system that balances accountability with opportunities for reform.
The interplay of these components—courts, prosecutors, jail, probation, and community corrections—creates a criminal justice system that reflects Pike County’s distinct identity. The Circuit Court provides a centralized legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach, while the prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring diversion programs to manage resources. The jail serves as a temporary holding facility, with efforts to address capacity through community corrections, which promotes reintegration through local employment opportunities. The probation department bridges punishment and rehabilitation, leveraging Petersburg’s limited but dedicated resources to address issues like addiction and youth challenges. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its rural charm and community spirit. For individuals facing charges in Petersburg, a criminal lawyer familiar with Pike County’s system is essential for navigating its unique challenges, from the historic courthouse to the innovative community corrections program.
Call 317-695-7700 for a Free Consultation with a Criminal Defense Attorney about Your Case in Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana
Call 317-695-7700 for a free consultation with an Indiana defense attorney if you have questions about a criminal matter in Petersburg, Pike 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 Petersburg, Pike 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 Petersburg, Pike 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 Petersburg, Pike 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 Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana Legal System with a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Petersburg, Pike 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
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.
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:
I handle cases throughout all of Indiana, including the Federal District Courts, the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and Petersburg, Pike County, Indiana.
DISCLAIMER – The information contained on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice or as an offer to perform legal services on any subject matter. The content of this web site contains general information and may not reflect current legal developments or information. The information is not guaranteed to be correct, complete or current. We make no warranty, expressed or implied, about the accuracy or reliability of the information at this website or at any other website to which it is linked. Recipients of content from this site should not act or refrain from acting on the basis of any information included in the site without seeking appropriate legal advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from an Indiana Criminal Defense attorney or attorney licensed in the recipient’s state. Nothing herein is intended to create an attorney-client relationship and shall not be construed as legal advice. This is not an offer to represent you, nor is it intended to create an attorney-client relationship.