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Serving Indianapolis and Indiana

For Indiana criminal cases, the length of the case will vary depending on what level of charge has been filed or is being investigated. Generally, the case begins with an arrest or a summons. A judge in a criminal matter will determine if you should be released or what the bond amount and type should be. If you are released or post bond, you may be saddled with various release conditions, such as drug testing or GPS monitoring. Your case will then likely have a series of hearings. At these hearings, your criminal defense attorney and the prosecutor will communicate with the judge about the status of the case, as well as any issues that have arisen. In between these hearings, your defense lawyer will review the evidence discovered by the state, investigate possible defenses, negotiate for a desirable plea offer or diversion, file motions if appropriate, and consult with you about the direction of the case. If you reject a plea offer or diversion, you will likely proceed to trial. If you do not win your trial or if you plead guilty with some open terms or a cap on the amount of time, your criminal defense lawyer will make sentencing arguments in favor of a mitigated sentence. Any conviction from a trial can be appealed and some terms of pleas may be appealable as well.

For Indiana family law cases, the matter usually begins with a couple separating. A family law attorney can assist you with avoiding lengthy litigation by negotiating with your former spouse on assets, debt, child custody, and more. If that fails, the court will intervene. Witnesses will testify, and evidence will be introduced. The judge will then make a final determination, such as whether spousal support is necessary or when visitation can occur. After the initial divorce decree, there may be modifications or contempt hearings.