Hit and Run Accidents in Indiana: What You Need to Know

Posted on December 27, 2023 by admin

A traffic accident can be a stressful and worrying experience, but leaving the scene of an accident, known as a hit and run, can significantly exacerbate the situation. In Indiana, hit and run charges are taken seriously, whether the incident involves hitting a pedestrian or another vehicle. Understanding the consequences and ramifications of such actions is crucial.

This blog post aims to shed light on the key elements you need to know about hit and run accidents and subsequent charges in Indiana, providing valuable insight to help you navigate through potentially complicated legal situations.

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What Constitutes a Hit and Run in Indiana?

In the state of Indiana, a hit and run is defined as leaving the scene of an accident without stopping and exchanging relevant information with the other involved parties. This includes accidents involving only property damage or personal injury to another person. The law requires all drivers involved in an accident to stop at the scene, provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number, and show their driver’s license upon request. Failure to do so can result in hit-and-run charges.

Hitting a Pedestrian

Hitting a pedestrian is one of the most severe types of hit and run accidents in Indiana. Pedestrians are incredibly vulnerable on the roads, making it crucial for drivers to exercise caution. In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, Indiana law requires drivers to stop immediately and provide assistance to the injured person, whether it be calling for medical help or providing first aid. Failing to do so can result in severe hit and run charges, including felony charges if the accident causes serious injury or death to the pedestrian.

Hitting a Car

Aside from hitting a pedestrian, such charges can also result from colliding with another vehicle. If you are involved in an accident with another car, Indiana law requires you to stop at the scene, exchange relevant information, and provide assistance if needed. Failing to do so can lead to criminal charges, depending on the severity of the damage caused by the collision. In addition to facing hit and run charges, you may also face civil liability for any damages or injuries caused by leaving the scene of the accident.

Penalties for a Hit and Run Conviction in Indiana

The penalties for hit-and-run crimes in Indiana vary depending on the severity of the accident. If no personal injury is involved, hit and run charges are considered a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000. However, if the accident causes injury or death to another person, the charges can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a high level felony, with penalties ranging from one year in prison and fines of up to $10,000 for a Class A misdemeanor, to 8 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000 for a felony.

What to Do if You Commit a Hit and Run Accident

If you have been charged with a hit and run in Indiana, it is crucial to seek legal help as soon as possible. An experienced criminal defense attorney can review your case, advise you of your rights and options, and provide guidance throughout the legal process. Keep in mind that hit-and-run charges can have serious consequences, affecting not only your driving record but also your personal and professional life. Therefore, it is crucial to take them seriously and seek legal assistance to ensure the best possible outcome for your case.

In Summary

Hit and run charges in Indiana can have severe consequences, ranging from fines and jail time to potential felony charges. It is essential to understand what constitutes a hit and run, know the penalties involved, and take appropriate actions in case of an accident. Remember always to remain calm, stop at the scene, and provide assistance and information as required by law.

If you are facing hit and run charges, seek legal help to protect your rights and best interests. Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to book an appointment with an experienced criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our legal team is dedicated to fiercely and intelligently defending criminal appeals, while working to secure a reduction or dismissal of your conviction.

Understanding Your Rights When Pulled Over By the Police

Posted on May 2, 2023 by admin

No one wants to be pulled over by the police, but it happens. When you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to know your rights and understand how you should act. Police encounters can be intimidating, but if you are aware of your civil rights as an American citizen and exercise them properly, things can go more smoothly. In this blog post we will discuss what your rights are when stopped by police officers according to the Fourth Amendment of the U.S Constitution and provide tips on how best to handle a police encounter so that everyone stays safe. So, let’s dive in!

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Your Fourth Amendment Rights

The Fourth Amendment is part of the Bill of Rights, and it protects people from unreasonable search and seizure. When pulled over, you have the right to remain silent and not answer any questions that are asked of you. You do not have to give permission for your car to be searched unless the police officer has a valid warrant or probable cause. If an officer has a valid warrant, they will present it before conducting a search.

Good Behavior During a Traffic Stop

It is within your rights to ask why you were stopped and if they are asking you to step out of the vehicle. It is also important to be polite when interacting with officers as this can help them keep their composure during the encounter. Additionally, make sure that any objects such as keys or wallets that you give to officers are returned once the encounter is over.

Outstanding Arrest Warrants

Whether you exhibit good behavior or not, if there is a warrant out for your arrest, the cop can and will arrest you on the spot and take you into custody. In this case, you would leave your car there and it would be towed to the designated impound lot. You would be responsible for paying all towing and impound fees after you post bond and get out of jail.

Were You Arrested?

It’s important to note that if police do not read you your Miranda rights upon arrest and later make a confession, that confession may not be admissible in court. It’s crucial to understand your Miranda rights and exercise them if you’re ever in a situation where you’re under arrest or being questioned by law enforcement. Don’t hesitate to speak up and demand your rights. Miranda rights refer to the rights that every American citizen has upon being arrested by the police. These rights, established in the 1966 Supreme Court case Miranda v. Arizona, include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to have an attorney present during police questioning, and the right to stop answering questions at any time.

Were Your Rights Violated?

If you feel your legal rights were violated, and there’s no physical harm caused during the encounter, it’s best to document as much information as possible, including the officer’s name, badge number and any details of the incident. As soon as possible after the encounter, contact a criminal defense lawyer to learn how to move forward with the law on your side.

Conclusion

Overall, understanding your rights when pulled over by police can help ensure that everyone involved in an encounter stays safe and respects one another’s civil rights. Keep in mind that having knowledge of your Fourth Amendment Rights can help protect you from unreasonable search-and-seizures by law enforcement officials. Being aware of these laws and exercising them properly can help make your police encounters go as smoothly as possible.

You do not have to go through the legal system alone. Get a professional on your side who will fight for your rights and your freedoms. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm will get you the best possible outcome to your criminal case!

Frequently Asked Questions About Warrants

Posted on July 8, 2022 by admin

Being served, or worse, surprised by a warrant is not a pleasurable experience. Whether you are a hardened, street-smart convict or a first-time offender, the discovery of a warrant will most certainly invoke some relevant questions. If you are facing a bench warrant, arrest warrant, or search-and-seizure warrant, it is wise to educate yourself as much as possible before you mistakenly make your legal matters worse.

Scroll down to review some frequently asked questions about warrants, including what your first steps should be after learning of one for yourself for a loved one.

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FAQS About Warrants

What is an Arrest Warrant?

There are two main types of warrants: arrest warrants and bench warrants. An arrest warrant is an official order made by a judge and handed over to law enforcement demanding the immediate arrest of the defendant named in the document. A bench warrant is less serious as it does not require your arrest. Instead, bench warrants request your attendance on the “judge’s bench” for the purpose of handling certain legal matters. These are commonly used in divorce proceedings, custody hearings, and for witness testimony.

Do I Have to Go to Jail For a Bench Warrant?

No, you are not required to surrender to the jail for a bench warrant. Instead, follow the instructions on the documents sent to you. There should be information on when you are requested to appear in court or mediation. If you do not cooperate with the bench warrant, you could face civil or legal penalties, like fines.

How are Arrest Warrants Served?

There are several ways an arrest warrant can be satisfied or served. In many cases, the defendant named in the warrant will have a run-in with police, and when the police draw up their records, they will see the warrant and arrest the individual on the spot. This can happen during a routine traffic stop, even if the cop is just warning you about a burnt out taillight.

Other times, law enforcement will make a house visit or show up at the defendant’s last known place of employment. There, they will serve the defendant and apprehend them on the spot. Sometimes, police will allow a cooperative individual to simply follow them to the station for a surrender, rather than being cuffed and escorted in the police car.

What Should I Do if I Think I Have a Warrant Out for My Arrest?

You can use a free, online database to search for arrest warrant records. Simply type in your name and date of birth to see if there is an active warrant in your name. It should be able to provide state-wide results, showing warrants in all counties you are wanted in. You can also contact a local bail bondsman or criminal defense attorney for professional warrant lookup assistance. These tend to be the most reliable sources for warrant information. You could also call the Department of Motor Vehicles or courthouse directly.

How Do I Surrender to an Arrest Warrant?

If you have a warrant out for your arrest, it is vital that you turn yourself into authorities at the local police station in the county denoted on your warrant document. If you fail to surrender to an arrest warrant, you will be considered a fugitive of the law. It is recommended to contact the jail beforehand to get detailed instructions on where to park, where to enter the building, what to bring, and so on. In most cases, you can get in and out in a couple of hours.

Do I Need a Lawyer for an Arrest Warrant?

Although it is not required by law, it is strongly encouraged to hire an Indianapolis criminal defense attorney to help you during and after your arrest warrant surrender. They will ensure that you are not held in jail longer than you need to be, plus they can begin working on your defense to reduce your charges and subsequent penalties.

What Makes a Search Warrant Valid?

All search warrants must be filed in good faith by a law enforcement officer, and they must include reliable evidence that shows probable cause to search a premises. Aside from this fundamental requirement, a valid search warrant will have 3 specific elements: a magistrate’s signature, a description of the premises to be searched, and a description of the items to be seized.

Can I Refuse a Search and Seizure if Police Have a Warrant?

There are several intricacies involved with an officer’s right to perform legal searches without warrants, so you may be confused on whether or not your 4th Amendment right applies. In fact, a person can potentially be arrested and held in custody for resisting a search. If you believe you were unfairly searched, you can always file a claim afterwards that alleges a violation of your rights.

Are you looking for legal assistance regarding arrest warrants and similar criminal matters in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for skilled criminal defense for arrest warrants in Indianapolis. We represent juveniles and adults all throughout the state of Indiana.

Do I Need to Hire a Lawyer for an Arrest Warrant?

Posted on April 27, 2022 by admin

Arrest warrants are not as confusing as they may seem at first. Once you start exploring your options for turning yourself in to authorities, you will feel better about the process. After all, knowing what to expect is a great strategy for decreasing anxiety about any kind of pressing legal matter. Regardless of how straightforward arrest warrants tend to be, you may still have some questions. One of the most common questions about arrest warrants has to do with hiring a lawyer.

Continue reading to learn about hiring a criminal defense lawyer for assistance with an arrest warrant in Indiana, plus which law firm to trust for a fast and secure surrender.

How to Check for Arrest Warrants

There are many ways to discover an arrest warrant for your own arrest. The worst way is to be stopped by police, which commonly happens during routine traffic stops, DUI checkpoints, and similar police encounters. In these scenarios, the police immediate arrest and detain the suspect and bring them into jail. There is no time to make any phone calls, park your car, pay your tab, or anything else for that matter. You are simply arrested on the spot.

Another way arrest warrants are brought to one’s attention is by in-person police execution. This means that a uniformed officer will show up at a person’s place of residence or employment execute a warrant. They can also show up at your kid’s school, gym, and any other place you are known to be.

Sometimes, defendants are notified by conducting a warrant search on themselves. If you suspect that you have an active or outstanding warrant out for your arrest, verify this gut feeling with a certified arrest warrant lookup service. These are free and available online via several different government websites and portals.

Hiring a Lawyer for an Arrest Warrant

The best way, and it is the best because it is the most secure and can eliminate the need to turn yourself in altogether, is to hire an Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer to represent your charges. Your criminal defense lawyer can confirm if you indeed have an open warrant issued for your arrest, and quite possibly, have the warrant recalled. This would mean that you would not longer be wanted nor surrender to the jail.

A criminal defense attorney can file a motion with the court to have your arrest warrant recalled or for a combined bond review and warrant surrender. Otherwise, you would just turn yourself in and bail yourself right out.

Are you currently facing an arrest warrant in Indiana? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for skilled and friendly criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. We represent adults and juveniles in all criminal cases.

Can My Lawyer Get Me Out of Jail?

Posted on October 13, 2021 by admin

Being arrested and taken to jail for any crime is a startling experience, whether it’s a first arrest or a fifth. In all cases of arrest, the first question that comes to a defendant’s mind is, “how can I get out of jail as soon as possible?” With family at home and work on the line, getting out of jail quickly should be a top priority. Although many people turn to their own social and familial circles to arrange bail bond services for their release from jail, a lawyer can do this much faster and with a higher level of security.

Continue reading to learn how your lawyer can get you out of jail, and where to find a top criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana.

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Criminal Defense Attorneys Work Faster and Smarter

In the case that you are arrested or surrendering to an arrest warrant, it is important to hire a seasoned criminal defense attorney to represent your case. Regardless of the severity of your criminal charges, a lawyer can significantly reduce or even to dismiss your sentence. It is always in the best interest of your future and your freedoms to retain professional legal counsel after being charged with a crime in Indiana.

With this in mind, you can help your friends and family by relieving them of the responsibility of getting you out of jail. Rather than your friends or family members calling a bail bond company in arranging bail bond service, you can simply go straight to the best legal resource which is your higher cripple defense attorney.

Your First Call After Being Arrested

After being arrested, your first priority should be to contact a veteran criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis. They can get you out of jail quickly because they have long-standing connections and good relationships with the local jails and courts. If you are preparing to surrender to an arrest warrant, you can hire and meet with your attorney beforehand, which significantly reduces the arrest warrant surrender and bail bond process time.

Here’s what a criminal defense attorney can do for you after being arrested:

► They can arrange or bail bond.

► They can waive my registration on your behalf.

► They can establish a pretrial release.

► If your bond is too high, they can motion for a bond reduction hearing.

Are you ready to hire a criminal defense attorney to help you surrender to an arrest warrant in Indianapolis? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for skilled criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can hold meetings over the phone, via online conferencing, or in person at her Indianapolis office.

You Should Also Read:

What is the Criminal Bail Bond Process in Indiana?
Do I Call a Bail Bondsman or a Lawyer First?
When You Might Go to Jail for a DUI

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514 — Schedule a Free Consultation Today!

Top FAQS About Criminal Search and Seizures

Posted on October 8, 2021 by admin

Facing criminal charges is not a pleasant experience, regardless of how major or minor they may be. But, if you have the right knowledge, prepare accordingly, and hire a skilled criminal defense attorney, you can help ease the anxiety and fear that generally comes along being a criminal defendant. Many suspected offenders want to know the laws and procedures surrounding criminal search and seizures, as this is often the beginning of the indictment and criminal investigation process.

Continue below to review the top frequently asked questions about search and seizures, as well as how to protect your rights as you face criminal charges in Indiana.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Search and Seizures

Does Our Fourth Amendment Right Protect Us Against Illegal Searches?

The 4^th Amendment of the United States Constitution gives citizens the right to be free of unlawful or unreasonable searches and seizures by law enforcement officials. This means that police and other forms of law enforcement must have a good reason to legally search you or your property, as well as seize personal belongings or make an arrest.

“Good reason” is established when police identify tangible evidence or facts that leads them to believe a person is committing, has committed, or intends to commit a crime. This is also referred to as probable cause. If sufficient probable cause is present during a police encounter in a place where privacy is not expected, a search and seizure is not deemed unreasonable, therefore, it is not illegal.

Can a Cop Search My Property Without My Permission?

Since police have the authority to make a probable cause determination, they can legally search your property if they want to, whether dwelling, vehicle, storage unit, barn, or shed. There is very little chance that they are found guilty of an illegal search later on.

Can I Refuse or Resist a Search?

There are several complexities involved with an officer’s right to perform legal searches without warrants, so you may be confused on whether or not your 4^th Amendment right applies. In fact, a person can potentially be arrested and held in custody for resisting a search. If you believe you were unfairly searched, you can always file a claim afterwards that alleges a violation of your rights. Talk to a licensed Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer to learn your rights and get help with your case.

How Do I Know if a Search Warrant is Valid?

There are ways you can ensure that a search warrant is legally standing and valid. When confronted with a search warrant by law enforcement, review the document and look for a magistrate’s signature, a description of the location to be searched, and a description of the items to be seized.

Can a Cop Read My Text Messages and Mail?

Whether snail mail, email, or text messages, a law enforcement officer can read through your literature if they have a valid search warrant. Once you are placed under arrest, police can confiscate and search through any belongings you have in your possession or on your person, such as purses, bags, wallets, and in some cases, cell phones. This is known as a “search incident to arrest.” Not all states allow a cell phone search under these circumstances, and instead, require a warrant to do so.

Are you facing criminal charges in Indiana and wish to dismiss or reduce them? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a skilled and aggressive criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Act fast so that you may avoid the maximum penalties for your charges!

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Facts About Police Stops and Pat Downs
Examples of Unlawful Search and Seizures
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Did Your Arresting Officer Violate Your Miranda Rights?

Posted on May 25, 2021 by admin

If you are recently approached by law enforcement, or worse, arrested, you may be wondering about your Miranda rights. There are many misconceptions regarding Miranda warnings, one of the most common being that they must be read at every police interaction. Continue reading to learn whether or not your Miranda rights were violated, and what you should do if they were.

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Learn Your Miranda Rights

As a result of the case, “Miranda versus the state of Arizona”, the United States Supreme Court ruled that detained criminal suspects must be informed of certain constitutional rights before police questioning or interrogation takes place. Miranda rights mostly have to do with the 5^th and 6^th Amendments under the United States Constitution.

Your 5^th and 6^th Amendment

The 5^th amendment protects the right to due process and prohibits self-incrimination and double jeopardy. The 6^th amendment guarantees the right to an attorney, and protects the right to a fair and speedy trial, the right to be notified of accusations, the right to confront the accuser, and the right to obtain witnesses.

THE TRADITIONAL MIRANDA WARNINGS:

▷ You have the right to remain silent.

▷ Anything you say or do can be used against you in a court of law.

▷ You have the right to consult an attorney before speaking to police, and have an attorney present during questioning now or in the future.

▷ If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you before any questioning if you wish.

▷ If you decide to answer any questions now without a lawyer present, you still have the right to stop answering at any time until you talk to a lawyer.

▷ Knowing and understanding your rights as they’ve been explained to you, are you willing to answer any questions without an attorney present?

Your Pirtle Rights ► The Miranda Rights primarily apply to interrogations, but your Pirtle rights apply to law enforcement seeking consent to search your property, whether vehicle, home, storage unit, or business. If a person is in police custody and asked to consent to a search of their property, they have the right to consult with their attorney and have them present before giving consent.

What You Need To Know About Miranda Rights

The rules and regulations regarding Miranda warnings and what police officers must say to people under arrest differ among jurisdictions within the United States. It is important to understand that Miranda warnings are not meant for every police interaction, and may not always be read to a person. For instance, if the police officer citing you for a moving violation, they won’t be reading you any legal warnings.

The only situation in which law enforcement is required to read a person their Miranda rights is if custodial interrogation is going to take place. This means if police officers intend to interrogate and question a suspect for the purpose of making an arrest, they must read the suspect their Miranda warnings first before questioning them.

Do you believe that the arresting officer failed to deliver Miranda warnings? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned Indianapolis Indiana criminal lawyer who will build you a strong and impactful defense.

You Should Also Like:

Understanding Your Miranda Rights
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What are My Constitutional Rights After Being Arrested?

What are the Different Phases of a Criminal Case?

Posted on July 15, 2020 by admin

The criminal prosecution process is just that; a process that unfolds itself in a series of consecutive phases. If you are facing criminal charges, you will soon become a part of this predictable procession of events. Continue reading to learn the basic stages of a criminal case, starting with the arrest. This information can help prepare you for what’s to come, as well as, give you the knowledge you need to starting building a strong defense.

Arrest

An arrest is the very first phase in the criminal prosecution process. A person can be arrested physically, or issued an arrest warrant in which they would have to legally surrender to authorities within a specified period of time. Once a person surrenders to an arrest warrant, they are then physically arrested and booked into the jail where they will await their arraignment.

Arraignment

The next stage in the criminal prosecution process is the defendant’s first court hearing, also known as an arraignment. During this court appearance, the judge reads the defendant’s charges, and asks them to enter a plea of “no contest”, “guilty”, or “not guilty.

Although most criminal prosecutions come to an end once a defendant accepts a plea deal, or plea bargain, there are several criminal cases that go to trial and beyond. When a plea bargain is accepted, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to the criminal charges. In exchange for their guilty plea, the prosecutor typically offers a reduced conviction or sentence. See our blog, “Is a Plea Bargain the Same as a Plea Deal?” to learn more about plea deals.

Also during the arraignment, the judge generally addresses bail and schedules future court dates. Many arrestees are granted bail, and can post their bond. Some are required to stay in jail until the criminal case is over.

Preliminary Hearing or Grand Jury Indictment

For federal criminal cases, charges are brought forward with a grand jury indictment. Most often, criminal charges are brought forth by a “bill of information” obtained by a preliminary hearing, also known as a preliminary examination. On a state level, either method can be used at the state’s discretion. Both types of hearings are held for the purpose of establishing the existence of probable cause, and for both parties to make their arguments.

Pre-Trial Motions

Pre-trial motions are used by both parties to resolve any lingering issues, as well as, determine the evidence and testimonies that will be admissible during trial.

Trial

The trial is the heart of the criminal prosecution process. At a defendant’s trial, the judge (or jury) will hand down a verdict, finding them guilty or not guilty. In order to be handed down a guilty verdict, the prosecution must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant is guilty of the purported crime or crimes. If a defendant chooses a trial by jury, and the jury cannot reach a unanimous decision, the judge will determine it to be a mistrial. In the case of a mistrial, the charges will be dismissed, or a new jury will be appointed.

Sentencing

After a defendant is found guilty at their trial, they will be scheduled a new court date to receive their sentencing. Sentences are the penalties ordered to the guilty party, such as probation, jail time, fines, community service, and more.

Appeal

The last step of the criminal prosecution process does not always take place. If a defendant wishes to fight their conviction, and get it turned over, they must have their legal team file an appeal. Their appeal will be addressed in a new hearing by a higher court, known as appellate court.

Hire a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney in Indiana Right Away to Fight Your Charges

If you do not already have a licensed Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer working on your case, you need one right away. Contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 to start building a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges so that you have a chance at avoiding the maximum penalties for your suspected crimes. Our law firm offers free initial consultations, so there are no out-of-pocket obligations to you. Get started protecting your future, today.

Important Bail Bond FAQS to Review Before Hiring a Lawyer

Posted on June 19, 2020 by admin

If you are ever faced with a legal situation that requires you to bail a loved one or yourself out of jail, it is important to have a basic understanding of what to expect. Bailing a friend or loved one out of jail can be frustrating and stressful if you are not prepared, and can even come with some stiff penalties if you fail to uphold your end of the bargain. So, if you have to bail a loved one out of jail, or surrender to an arrest warrant, it is helpful to first read through some common questions and answers about the bail bond industry. Then you can make a call to a criminal defense lawyer to set up a plan after you or your loved one is released.

Continue reading to review the most frequently asked questions about bail bonds.

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How Much Does a Bail Bond Cost in Indiana?

This is one of the first questions a person asks when they need bail services. This fact is not surprising, considering it is a huge influence on whether or not bail is an option for someone. Currently in the state of Indiana, bail bond agencies are allowed to charge 10 to 15 percent of the total bond amount assigned by the court to the defendant. If a person were arrested on a minor drug possession charge, their bond could be set at around 5,000 dollars. This is just an example and not accurate. Bond amounts are calculated by examining a person’s criminal history, flight risk, and other variables. It is different for everyone.

Theoretically, if a person’s bond were five thousand dollars, a bail agent charging ten percent would require a fee of 500 dollars. This ten or fifteen percent fee is non-refundable, but it allows a person to get out of jail before their scheduled court hearing without having to pay the entire $5,000 fine. If they fail to appear for court, they forfeit the rest of the bond amount and a warrant is issued for their arrest. At that point, they are a repeat offender and may have trouble gaining bail for a second time. This leads into the next question.

Can a Bail Bond Company Refuse Service to Someone?

The answer to this dual question is yes, both ways. Bail bond agents are a separate business, and can refuse their services to anyone, just as any other privately owned business can. The reason a bail bond company may refuse service to a person is mostly based on their likelihood to flee and not appear for their scheduled court hearings. On top of that, they take into consideration past criminal records and charges, just as the court does when they set a bond amount. If a person seems like a risky client, they will refuse service in order to protect themselves.

Are Bail Bondsmen Bounty Hunters?

No, bail bond agents are not bounty hunters; especially the ones depicted on television. Bail bond agents are a legal service company that provides helpful assistance to people in need of bail. Bounty hunters are persons who work on their own volition to seek out fugitives and hand them over to the police. In some cases, a bail bondsman can hire a bounty hunter if one of their clients skips out on a court date.

Do I Need a Lawyer to Obtain a Bail Bond?

A lawyer has the role of defending your criminal charges. Their job is to build an impactful defense on your behalf so you can avoid the maximum penalties for your suspected crimes. Although they can arrange bail for you, but they will not be your surety. What they can do in terms of bail is coordinate with your friends and family to arrange a bail bond agreement and act as your surety to get you out of jail. For this reason, you do not need a lawyer to post your bail, or even surrender to an arrest warrant. However, if you are turning yourself in for a warrant, it helps to have your lawyer on board, prior to doing so. They can help expedite the process, and even make the arrangements on your behalf.

Where to Get Trusted Legal Advice Regarding Your Recent Arrest and Criminal Charges in Indiana

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with aggressive Indianapolis criminal defense attorney, David E. Lewis regarding your arrest and criminal charges. He will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms after being charged with a crime in Central Indiana. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges.

What to Do if You Just Found Out About Your Arrest Warrant

Posted on August 23, 2019 by admin

Arrest warrants are serious court orders, but they are nothing to worry about so long as you choose the proper recourse. You never want to ignore an arrest warrant, because the legal circumstances surrounding the order will only worsen as time goes on. So the sooner you deal with a warrant, the less severe your penalties are likely to be.

If you just discovered that you have an arrest warrant in your name, continue reading to learn exactly what you need to do to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

Arrest Warrants in Indiana

An arrest warrant is a legal court order that orders your arrest on contact. Once a warrant is issued, all local law enforcement is immediately notified through a universal database to arrest you on the spot. Police can come looking for you at home, work or school, or even while you’re out with friends. For less serious offenses and infractions, police are not likely to come after you. Instead, you can get arrested on the spot during a routine traffic stop, or during any other type of police encounter that requires law enforcement to scan your name in their database.

If this happens, you will be arrested on the spot; even if you were just pulled over for having a taillight out. As soon as the cop runs your license through their system, the warrant will appear, and they have no other choice but to detain you on the spot and take you directly to jail. If you are pulled over in a traffic stop, your car will be towed to the nearest impound lot, and you will have to pay to get it out later.

Being arrested on the spot or hunted down by police for an arrest warrant is not an ideal situation. Nor do you do not want your warrant to turn outstanding. The legal consequences for ignoring or procrastinating on an arrest warrant are exponential, so you must deal with a warrant as soon as possible to make your life easier. Courts are not lenient on those who intentionally evade a warrant, so do the right thing and get your legal process in motion.

What You Need to Do

As soon as you become aware of an arrest warrant, or even a bench warrant, your first step is to hire a licensed Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer. From there, your lawyer will manage all aspects of your arrest warrant, which will eventually involve your physical surrender to the jail. Although you will actually have to turn yourself in and be arrested, with a lawyer handling your case, you will not have to stay in jail very long. In most cases of arrest warrant surrenders, defendants are in and out in as little as one hour.

Where to Get Help With Your Arrest Warrant

Contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for help managing your arrest warrant in Indiana. Not only can he get you out of jail quickly, he will build a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges so that you have a chance at avoiding the maximum penalties for your suspected crimes. Our criminal defense law firm offers free initial consultations, so there is no out-of-pocket obligations to you. Call 317-636-7514 and get started protecting your future, today.