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 Angola, Steuben County, Indiana

Steuben County, Indiana, with its county seat in Angola, is a vibrant community of approximately 34,000 residents, located in the northeastern corner of the state near the Michigan and Ohio borders. Angola, a city of about 9,000, serves as the county’s hub, known for its scenic lakes, historic charm, and thriving tourism industry. The county is home to over 100 lakes, earning it the nickname “Lake Country,” with Pokagon State Park and Lake James drawing visitors for boating, fishing, and winter tobogganing. Steuben County’s economy blends agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, with events like the Steuben County 4-H Fair and the Angola Balloons Aloft festival showcasing its community spirit. The county’s historic downtown Angola, centered around the Public Square, features the Steuben County Soldiers’ Monument, a Civil War memorial, and quaint shops. The criminal justice system in Steuben County, encompassing the courts, prosecutor’s office, jail, probation office, and community corrections, operates with a distinct character shaped by the county’s rural-tourist dynamic, moderate population, and community focus. This exploration delves into these components, highlighting their roles and specific attributes in Angola, optimized for search engine visibility using terms like defense attorney, criminal attorney, criminal lawyer, criminal defense attorney, and criminal defense lawyer.

The Steuben County court system is a structured framework designed to manage a moderate caseload, reflecting the county’s population and its role as a regional hub. The county operates one Circuit Court and one Superior Court, both housed in the new Steuben County Judicial Center at 305 South Martha Street in Angola, a 55,000-square-foot facility completed in 2024 to replace the historic 1868 courthouse, which had outgrown its capacity. 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 serious criminal proceedings. The Superior Court focuses on misdemeanors, traffic violations, and lower-level felonies, as well as small claims and civil cases. The Judicial Center’s modern design integrates with Angola’s historic downtown, featuring advanced technology for e-filing, which is mandatory for attorneys in Steuben County. The courts also oversee specialized programs, such as a Drug Court, addressing substance abuse issues prevalent in the county due to its rural setting and proximity to Interstate 69, a corridor for drug trafficking. A criminal defense attorney in Angola must navigate this dual-court system, adapting to the distinct roles of the Circuit and Superior Courts and the community-oriented approach of local judges.

The Steuben County Prosecutor’s Office, located within the Judicial Center at 305 South Martha Street, is a pivotal 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 team of deputy prosecutors, the office handles a diverse caseload, with a focus on OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), drug offenses, and property crimes, reflecting Angola’s challenges as a tourist destination with busy roads and lakefront activities. The office reviews complaints from law enforcement agencies, such as the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department and Angola Police Department, deciding whether to file charges. It also manages juvenile delinquency cases and a Child Support Division, critical in a county with a mix of working-class and seasonal residents. A Victim Assistance Program provides support to those affected by crime, emphasizing Steuben County’s commitment to community welfare. Plea agreements are common to manage the caseload efficiently, given the moderate volume and modern facilities. A criminal lawyer in Angola 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 Steuben County Jail, located at 206 East Gale Street in Angola, serves as the primary detention facility for individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences for misdemeanor offenses. Managed by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Department, the jail was constructed in 1992 and modified to house up to 178 inmates, accommodating the county’s law enforcement needs. The facility handles pre-trial detainees and those convicted of minor offenses, with common charges including OWI, drug possession, and public intoxication, driven by the county’s vibrant tourism and lake-related activities. The jail employs 29 full-time confinement officers, all trained at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, and offers services like routine healthcare through Quality Correctional Care, religious programs via the Steuben County Jail Ministry, and commissary access. The Sheriff’s Department maintains a strong community presence, with deputies participating in events like Balloons Aloft, fostering trust with residents. Overcrowding is managed through coordination with community corrections, ensuring capacity aligns with demand. A criminal defense lawyer in Angola 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 Steuben County Probation Department, also based in the Judicial Center at 305 South Martha Street, oversees individuals placed on probation as an alternative to incarceration or following a sentence. Staffed by a team of certified probation officers, the department serves both the Circuit and Superior Courts, 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 Angola, probation officers collaborate with local organizations, such as the Steuben County Health Department and community churches, to provide addiction treatment and mental health support, addressing the county’s substance abuse challenges, particularly around methamphetamine and opioids. The Juvenile Probation Division is active, working with Steuben County Community Schools to support at-risk youth through mentoring and educational programs, often involving community service at local sites like Pokagon State Park. Probationers may participate in community initiatives, such as volunteering at the 4-H Fair or maintaining facilities at the Angola Community Center, to promote reintegration. A defense attorney in Angola 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 community with moderate resources.

Steuben County Community Corrections, located at 307 South Wayne Street in Angola, provides innovative alternatives to traditional incarceration, focusing on rehabilitation and reducing jail overcrowding. The program offers options like work release, home detention, and electronic monitoring, allowing offenders to maintain employment or family responsibilities while serving their sentences. In Steuben County, the program partners with local employers, such as manufacturing firms like Tenneco or tourism-related businesses around Lake James, to facilitate work release, reflecting the county’s diverse 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 Angola’s role as a tourist hub and its highway access. Participants might engage in community service projects, such as supporting the Steuben County Historical Society or cleaning up trails at Trine State Recreation Area. A criminal attorney representing clients in this program must understand its specific requirements, such as GPS monitoring protocols, to ensure compliance. The program’s focus on reintegration, leveraging Steuben County’s economic and community resources, distinguishes its approach from more punitive systems in urban counties.

Steuben County’s criminal justice system is shaped by its unique position as a rural county with a strong tourism industry, with Angola serving as a central hub for legal proceedings. The new Judicial Center, housing the Circuit and Superior Courts, prosecutor’s office, and probation department, fosters collaboration but requires efficient resource management due to the county’s moderate budget. The county’s challenges with OWI and drug-related crimes, driven by its lake-centric tourism and proximity to major highways, influence the priorities of each component, from the prosecutor’s focus on drug offenses to the jail’s rehabilitation efforts. The Drug Court and Juvenile Probation programs reflect Steuben County’s commitment to innovative solutions, addressing substance abuse and youth delinquency in a community with access to natural and cultural resources. A criminal defense lawyer in Angola must navigate this interconnected system, understanding its rural-tourist dynamics and community focus to effectively represent clients. The county’s cultural landmarks, like Pokagon State Park and the Soldiers’ Monument, and its economic vibrancy 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 Steuben County’s distinct identity. The Circuit and Superior Courts provide a structured legal process, handling cases with a community-focused approach, while the prosecutor’s office drives case progression, often favoring plea deals 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 Angola’s resources to address issues like addiction and youth challenges. Together, these elements balance justice and community welfare in a county known for its lake country allure and community spirit. For individuals facing charges in Angola, a criminal lawyer familiar with Steuben County’s system is essential for navigating its unique challenges, from the modern Judicial Center to the innovative community corrections program.

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

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

If you are accused of a felony or misdemeanor in Angola, Steuben 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 Angola, Steuben County, Indiana.