Criminal Defense Attorneys In Indiana
It can be overwhelming to realize that you need to hire a criminal defense attorney. Our founding lawyers at Rodriguez Law Firm, Inc. previously worked as criminal prosecutors. They founded Rodriguez Law Firm, Inc. in La Porte to provide high-quality legal services, including criminal defense, to the local community. For misdemeanors, DWIs or felonies, they will provide you with a tenacious and tough defense. If you have been charged with a crime, they will fight to protect your rights and help you minimize the impact criminal charges can have on your future.
Former Criminal Prosecutors Protecting Your Rights
As former criminal prosecutors, our criminal defense lawyers know and understand how the prosecution will prepare and present their criminal case against you. Using this insider’s knowledge, they will be able to fully prepare and present a strong defense on your behalf. They defend all types of criminal charges, in either state or federal court, ranging in severity from misdemeanors to felonies, including:
- Misdemeanor cases, including traffic violations and Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) tickets
- Driving under the influence charges, including DUI, DWI and OWI charges
- Drug defense for misdemeanor and felony drug charges, including possession, distribution and manufacturing charges
- Other serious felony charges like assault and theft charges
- Domestic violence
- Civil asset forfeiture
- Estimates in sentencing
- Expungements
- Guns and weapons charges
- Internet crimes
- Sex crime defense
- Rape/sexual assault
- Sex offender registry
- Violent assault and murder
- White-collar crimes
We know that it is stressful and overwhelming to be facing criminal charges. As a result, we will make sure that you know and understand what is happening with every part of your case. Our criminal defense attorneys are available to answer your questions and will calmly guide you through what they know is a stressful process.
The Sentencing Guidelines In The State Of Indiana
In Indiana, judges rely on statutory guidelines to determine penalties following a criminal conviction. Understanding these established ranges allows you to prepare for potential consequences and evaluate your legal options. While misdemeanors generally involve lesser penalties, felonies carry strict advisory terms, minimum sentences and potential state prison time.
Indiana statutory guidelines set specific advisory terms, minimums, maximums and fine limits across each offense level:
- Level 1 felony: 20 to 40 years in prison (30-year advisory term) and fines up to $10,000. Examples include attempted murder or severe child neglect.
- Level 2 felony: 10 to 30 years in prison (17.5-year advisory term) and fines up to $10,000. Examples include voluntary manslaughter or major drug dealing.
- Level 3 felony: Three to 16 years in prison (nine-year advisory term) and fines up to $10,000. Examples include aggravated battery or armed robbery.
- Level 4 felony: Two to 12 years in prison (six-year advisory term) and fines up to $10,000. Examples include arson or burglary of a dwelling.
- Level 5 felony: One to six years in prison (three-year advisory term) and fines up to $10,000. Examples include nondwelling burglary or stalking.
- Level 6 felony: Six months to 2.5 years in prison (one-year advisory term) and fines up to $10,000. Examples include auto theft, fraud or minor drug possession.
- Class A misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and fines up to $5,000. Examples include OWI (DUI) or first-offense theft of property under $750.
- Class B misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. Examples include public intoxication or disorderly conduct.
- Class C misdemeanor: Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500. Examples include standard OWI under IC § 9-30-5-2(a).
Our defense attorneys examine the prosecution’s evidence, advocate for your constitutional rights and work to minimize your exposure to severe penalties.
Private Defense Attorney Versus Public Defender
Securing legal representation immediately is one of the most critical decisions in your criminal case. While public defenders are dedicated, skilled attorneys, heavy caseloads often restrict the time and energy they can assign to individual files.
When facing serious charges, experienced private attorneys offer focused attention, dynamic defense strategies and direct accessibility. Our attorneys provide the resources, technology and independent investigative support needed to build a comprehensive defense. We work alongside you at every step to ensure your case receives immediate, thorough representation.
Free Consultation About Your Defense
Our criminal defense attorneys offer a free, initial case consultation. During this appointment, they will listen to your story, discuss your goals and desired outcome and give you a better idea of how they can help you to prepare a criminal defense on your behalf. To schedule your free appointment, send an email through our website, or call us at 219-444-4322. We serve clients throughout Northwest Indiana.
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