If you are in need of a top tier criminal defense attorney in Greencastle, Putnam 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 Greencastle, Putnam County, Indiana ~ Jeff Cardella
The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Greencastle, Putnam County, Indiana
How much do you charge for criminal defense representation in Indiana
The Courts and Criminal Justice System in Greencastle, Putnam County, Indiana
The criminal justice system in Putnam County, Indiana, operates as a cohesive network of institutions designed to uphold public safety, enforce laws, and deliver justice in a fair and efficient manner. Centered in Greencastle, the county seat, this system includes the Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office, Circuit and Superior Courts, Sheriff’s Office, Adult Probation Department, and Community Corrections, each playing a critical role in addressing criminal matters. For individuals facing criminal charges, understanding how these entities function and interact is essential, particularly when navigating legal proceedings with the assistance of a skilled criminal defense attorney. The Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office, located on the fourth floor of the Putnam County Courthouse at 1 Courthouse Square, Greencastle, IN 46135, serves as the starting point for many criminal cases. The office is responsible for reviewing evidence presented by law enforcement, determining whether to file charges, and prosecuting cases in court. With a phone number of 765-653-2724, the Prosecutor’s Office also oversees specialized programs like the Child Support Division and the Pre-Trial Diversion Program, which offers first-time offenders with minimal criminal history an opportunity to avoid formal prosecution by meeting specific conditions. This program reflects the county’s commitment to rehabilitation alongside accountability, balancing punitive measures with opportunities for positive change. Criminal cases in Putnam County are adjudicated in either the Circuit Court or the Superior Court, both housed at the Putnam County Courthouse. The Circuit Court, presided over by a judge elected to handle a broad range of cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, and civil matters, is a cornerstone of the county’s judicial system. The Superior Court, under the leadership of Judge Charles D. Bridges, complements the Circuit Court by managing similar caseloads, with a focus on ensuring efficient case processing. Both courts can be reached at 765-653-5317 and are critical for residents seeking information about court dates, jury duty, or case documents. The courts utilize the Indiana Risk Assessment System (IRAS) to evaluate defendants’ risk levels, aiding judges in decisions about pretrial release or detention, which underscores the county’s evidence-based approach to justice. The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, located at 13 Keightly Rd, Greencastle, IN 46135, and reachable at 765-653-5165, manages the county jail and provides law enforcement services. The jail houses both pretrial detainees and sentenced inmates, ensuring their secure confinement while awaiting court appearances or serving sentences. The Sheriff’s Office employs modern technologies like the LiveScan Fingerprint system to maintain accurate records, enhancing the efficiency of inmate processing. For families and defense attorneys, the jail’s policies, such as those governing mail and visitation, are crucial, as all communications are monitored to maintain security. The Putnam County Adult Probation Department, also based at the Courthouse and contactable at 765-653-2643, plays a pivotal role in offender rehabilitation and supervision. Led by Chief Probation Officer Teresa Parrish, the department supervises hundreds of clients annually, focusing on evidence-based practices to reduce recidivism. Probation officers conduct presentence investigations, assess offenders’ needs, and develop individualized service plans, often involving substance abuse treatment or other rehabilitative programs. The department’s Alcohol and Drug Unit, certified by the Indiana Judicial Center, provides assessments and monitoring for offenders convicted of alcohol or drug-related offenses, contributing to public safety by addressing underlying issues that may lead to criminal behavior. Community Corrections, located at 1542 S Bloomington St, Greencastle, IN 46135, and reachable at 765-653-3387, offers alternatives to incarceration, such as electronic monitoring or work-release programs. This department focuses on high-risk and high-need offenders, providing intensive supervision to prevent further criminal activity while promoting rehabilitation. By integrating supervision with treatment and sanction strategies, Community Corrections aims to balance accountability with opportunities for offenders to reintegrate as productive members of society. The criminal justice system in Putnam County is designed to operate collaboratively, ensuring that each component—from prosecution to corrections—works toward the common goals of public safety and justice. For example, the courts rely on probation and community corrections to enforce sentences that may include treatment programs, while the Prosecutor’s Office collaborates with law enforcement to build cases that withstand judicial scrutiny. This interconnected system reflects a commitment to fairness, with mechanisms like pretrial services that aim to maximize defendant release while ensuring court appearances, recognizing the presumption of innocence. For individuals facing charges, the complexity of this system underscores the importance of experienced legal representation. A criminal defense attorney familiar with Putnam County’s courts, prosecutors, and procedures can navigate plea negotiations, challenge evidence, or advocate for alternative sentencing options like diversion or probation. The county’s emphasis on evidence-based practices, such as the use of IRAS and certified substance abuse programs, provides opportunities for defense strategies that highlight rehabilitation over punishment, particularly for first-time or low-risk offenders. The system also prioritizes victim support, with the Prosecutor’s Office offering resources to help victims navigate the legal process and the courts providing opportunities for victims to submit impact statements during sentencing. This victim-centered approach, combined with robust supervision for offenders, ensures a balanced system that addresses the needs of all parties involved. In summary, Putnam County’s criminal justice system is a well-coordinated framework that balances enforcement, adjudication, and rehabilitation. By understanding the roles of the Prosecutor’s Office, courts, Sheriff’s Office, probation, and community corrections, individuals can better navigate the legal landscape. For those facing charges, partnering with a knowledgeable criminal defense law firm is critical to achieving the best possible outcome in this dynamic and multifaceted system.
Putnam County Criminal Justice Contact Information
Putnam County Prosecutor’s Office
Address: 4th Floor, Putnam County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: 765-653-2724
Fax: 765-653-5526
Putnam County Circuit Court
Address: Putnam County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: 765-653-5317
Putnam County Superior Court
Address: Putnam County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: 765-653-5317
Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and Jail
Address: 13 Keightly Rd, Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: 765-653-5165
Putnam County Adult Probation Department
Address: Putnam County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Square, Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: 765-653-2643
Putnam County Community Corrections
Address: 1542 S Bloomington St, Greencastle, IN 46135
Phone: 765-653-3387
Call 317-695-7700 for a Free Consultation with a Criminal Defense Attorney about Your Case in Greencastle, Putnam County, Indiana
Call 317-695-7700 for a free consultation with an Indiana defense attorney if you have questions about a criminal matter in Greencastle, Putnam 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 Greencastle, Putnam 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 Greencastle, Putnam 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 Greencastle, Putnam 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 Greencastle, Putnam County, Indiana Legal System with a Criminal Defense Attorney
If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Greencastle, Putnam 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 Greencastle, Putnam 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.