Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Indianapolis

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Indianapolis, Indiana?

  The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department can be reached at (317) 327-3811 for non-emergencies.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Indianapolis, Indiana?

  To obtain a police report from the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, you can visit in person or send a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the address below:

  IMPD Citizen's Service Office 50 N. Alabama St. Suite E100 Indianapolis, IN 46204

  Please be informed that incident reports cost $5. When sending a mail, include the date, time, location, type of incident, and the names of people involved.

• What can be expected after you've been sentenced to probation in Indianapolis?

  The Marion Superior Court in Indianapolis has a large probation department that may be put in charge of supervising you. You will not be incarcerated, but you will have to adhere to the conditions ordered by the judge, or you will face some jail time. Some of these conditions may include weekly meetings, community service, paying fines and fees, maintaining employment, and going to counseling or therapy.

• What are things to look for in a criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis?

  There are several characteristics that one should look for in a criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis. These include being proficient at negotiation, aggressiveness and competence in the courtroom, and knowing how to think outside the box. You may want to choose an attorney who specializes in criminal defense, as they would know how to analyze the evidence and the case thoroughly.

• What are the penalties for misdemeanors in Indianapolis?

  It would greatly depend on the classification of the charge in Indianapolis.

  • Class C, the least serious, may carry up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
  • Being charged with a Class B case may mean paying up to $1,000 in fines and spending up to 180 days in jail.
  • Class A, the highest level in Indiana, may see the offender spending one year in jail and paying up to $5,000 in fines.

• Do all criminal cases in Indianapolis go to trial?

  A lot of criminal cases don't have to go to trial in Indianapolis. There is a negotiation part of a criminal case where the defendant discusses all the facts, including those that incriminate them. Most of the time, the criminal defense attorney can tell at this point if entering a plea deal would be better. Once agreed upon, the defendant receives their sentence.

• What is the best thing to do if your loved one is being arrested in Indianapolis?

  The best thing to do is to calm down. Heightened emotions or any signs of panicking may influence the cooperation of your loved one. Tell them not to resist the arrest, to go with the officers peacefully, and not to answer any of their questions until they have an Indianapolis attorney by their side.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.