Is it Possible to Get My Criminal Charges Reduced in Indiana?

After an arrest, your first thought is, “how much trouble am I in?” So, it is no surprise that one of the most common questions among criminal case defendants is, “can I get my charged reduced? Or better yet, dropped?” If you are wondering whether or not it is possible to get your criminal charges reduced in Indiana and avoid jail time completely, you are already on the right path. It is important to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms, and we will tell you what you need to know.

Continue below to learn about felonies and misdemeanors in Indiana, as well as their current sentencing schedules.

Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Defense
Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

Most Crimes are Classified as Misdemeanors and Felonies

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are not as serious as felonies, but they are still criminal offenses, nonetheless. Misdemeanors are categorized from Class A to Class C, with Class A being the most serious, and Class C being the least serious misdemeanor. Regardless of seriousness, they can all affect several aspects of a person’s life, including finances, driving privileges, renters’ agreements, housing, financial aid benefits, employment, professional reputation, child custody, and more. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to 1 year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines.

Felonies

A felony is a serious crime because it is a federal crime, or crime against the federal law. Felonies come with harsher penalties as a result. If you are facing a felony conviction in Indiana, it is vital that you hire a private Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and keep you out of jail. Felonies are categorized on a spectrum from least serious to most serious, from Level 6 Felonies to Level 1 felonies, and then murder at the very top as the highest felony, and in its own category.

Level 6 felonies are punishable up to 3 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and several other court-ordered penalties. Level 6 Felonies are typically called “wobblers” because they can often be reduced to a Class C Misdemeanor if the defendant has no priors. Level 1 and 2 felony crimes are the most serious levels, excluding murder.

How to Reduce Your Indiana Criminal Charges

If you are charged with a misdemeanor crimes or felony crimes in Indiana, it is vital to speak with an experienced and skilled Indianapolis criminal lawyer you can trust. Your next moves can drastically impact the overall outcome of your case, and the well-being of your future! Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to discuss the most effective legal strategies and defenses for your Indiana criminal case. We offer free consultations, so there is no out-of-pocket obligation to learn more about your charges and possible penalties. Schedule your consult over the phone, via video conference, or in-person at our Indiana criminal defense law firm

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

How are Federal Laws Different From State Laws?

If you were recently arrested in Indiana, you could be facing either misdemeanor or felony charges. At a basic level, misdemeanors are charges brought against you at a state level, while felonies are charges brought against you on a federal level. How are these two levels of laws different from one another? Continue reading to learn more about federal and state law, and what you should do if you are facing charges in Indiana right now.

FEDERAL CRIMES

VS.

STATE CRIMES

Federal Laws Versus State Laws

Federal Crimes

Felonies are federal crimes that are illegal under federal law. Crimes committed on federal property are also made illegal under federal law. There are several types of federal-level offenses. Some of the most common examples of felony crimes here in Indiana include white collar crimes like tax fraud, bank fraud, embezzlement, and counterfeiting, as well as other types of serious crimes like grand theft auto, sexual assault, kidnapping, armed robbery, firearm crimes, civil rights offenses, and of course, murder.

LEVELS OF FELONIES IN INDIANA:

Murder – Most Serious
Level 1 Felony
Level 2 Felony
Level 3 Felony
Level 4 Felony
Level 5 Felony
Level 6 Felony – Least Serious

Misdemeanor Crimes

Misdemeanors and infractions are state crimes that are illegal under state law. Like federal offenses, there are many types of misdemeanor and low-level crimes that are illegal under state and local laws. Both residents and visitors of the state are vulnerable to prosecution, including businesses and franchised businesses. The most prevalent misdemeanor crimes committed in Indiana include DUI’s, drugged driving, assault and battery, theft, drug crimes, burglary, disorderly conduct, probation violation, public intoxication, disturbing the peace, and traffic infractions.

Misdemeanor crimes are categorized into three “Classes” based on the seriousness of the crime: Class A, Class B, and Class C. They are punishable by up to 1 year in an Indiana Department of Corrections facility, fines up to $5,000 (not including court costs and probation fees), and several other penalties which include: suspended drivers’ license, probation, routine urine screening, community service, alcohol/drug education, victim impact panels, high risk auto insurance, and more.

Aggressive Criminal Defense for Felony and Misdemeanor Arrests in Indiana

Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with aggressive Indiana criminal defense attorney who will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges.

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

FAQS About Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Infractions

Whether on a state or federal level, all crimes fall under one of three categories of offenses. Each category differs in severity of crime, level of punishments, and much more. We are talking about felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. Regardless of the particular legal matter you are facing at the moment, it is in your best interest to educate yourself on what your charges mean, and what’s at stake in terms of your freedom.

Continue below to review some of the most frequently asked questions and answers about these 3 categories of offenses, and what you should do if you were just arrested for a crime.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514
Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

What is a Felony?

A felony is any crime on a federal level that is punishable by more than 1 year in jail, and up to $10,000 in fines, but can also include a long list of additional penalties. Level 6 felonies are the least serious of all felonies, while Level 1 and 2 felonies are the most serious of felonies, with the exception of murder, which tops the list of serious offenses and sits in its own category.

What is a Misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor is a step down from a felony in terms of seriousness, but nonetheless, still very serious. They are state-level crimes that are divided into three “classes”, from most serious to least serious: Class A Misdemeanors, Class B Misdemeanors, and Class C Misdemeanors. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to $10,000 in fines, and up to 1 year, so those convicted will not be sentenced to longer than 12 months in jail.

What is an Infraction?

Infractions are the lowest level of crimes among the three categories. Therefore, they are the least serious and come with less severe penalties. Most often, infractions are penalized in the form of fines, which can range in price depending on several factors, mainly the subject matter of the offense. Examples of common infractions including parking and speeding tickets. In some states, infractions are not even adjudicated in criminal court, and instead, considered a civil matter.

What is a Wobbler?

A wobbler is an offense that is on the border of two categories of crimes. For instance, a Class C misdemeanor can wobble on the border of an infraction, and often times, is reduced to such. The same applies to Level 6 felonies, which can be reduced to a Class A misdemeanor, therefore, making it a “wobbler,”

Do I Need a Lawyer for an Infraction?

Often times, infractions can simply be paid off at the courthouse or local county clerks’ office. For this reason, there is usually not a need for professional counsel. Unless you are facing several infractions at once, or your infractions are false accusations, you likely do not need to hire a lawyer. You can, however, still seek out professional advice from a lawyer before managing your infractions.

What are the Penalties for a Felony Conviction?

Level 1 and 2 levels are punishable by up to 30 years or more, depending on the variables of the offense. Level 6 felonies are punishable by up to 3 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. Additional penalties include parole, probation, community service, rehabilitation, community victim panels, and more.

What are the Penalties for a Misdemeanor Conviction?

Misdemeanors are punishable by up to 1 year in county jail and up to $10,000 in fines. They are commonly ordered with additional penalties, including probation, community service, restitution, victim impact panels, rehab, drug and alcohol classes, and more.

Where to Get Trusted Criminal Defense in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with aggressive Indiana criminal defense lawyer who will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About State and Federal Crimes

There are two main levels of judicial court in the United States: Federal and State. Although the two courts are much different from one another, there are several key similarities too. If you are currently facing criminal charges, you need to know what state and federal court does, and how it might impact your case. Below, you will learn some fundamental information about state and federal offenses, including how to avoid the maximum penalties for your misdemeanor or felony charges.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514
Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

How Does Federal Court Differ From State Court?

State courts are established by the state, and may include local courts as well. Local courts are usually established by individual cities, counties, townships, or other types of common municipalities. They adjudicate cases that involve crimes that break laws set and enforced by the state (also known as state laws). In contrast, federal courts are established under the United States Constitution, and adjudicate cases that involve crimes that break laws passed by Congress.

What are Federal and State Crimes?

Federal crimes are more serious than state crimes, and generally come with heftier fines and penalties, including jail time. In fact, a felony crime is one that is punishable by up to one year in a federal prison. Felonies are divided into 7 categories in Indiana: Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, Level 6, and Murder. Each level of felony is assigned a separate statute regarding penalization.

State crimes are those that break laws set by and enforced by the state. They are referred to as “misdemeanors”, which are lesser offenses compared to felonies, but still serious crimes that come with harsh penalties and life-long consequences. Misdemeanors are divided into three “classes”, from most serious to least serious: Class A Misdemeanors, Class B Misdemeanors, and Class C Misdemeanors.

What are Some Common Types of Federal Offenses?

Federal offenses are very serious. Some common examples include arson, bank fraud, healthcare fraud, mail fraud, car theft, identify theft, carjacking, kidnapping, civil rights offenses, drug trafficking, drug dealing, armed robbery, firearms offenses, assault and battery, sexual assault, child molestation, hate crimes, homicide, and murder.

Should I Hire an Attorney to Represent My Criminal Case?

The best step you can take toward securing your rights and protecting your freedoms when charged with a crime is to hire a licensed criminal defense lawyer to represent your case, whether you are facing a felony or misdemeanor conviction. Without the representation of a skilled criminal attorney, you greatly risk being sentenced to the maximum levels of punishment for your crime. That includes doing time in jail, which can greatly affect your employment, schooling, childcare, and more.

Where to Get Trusted Criminal Defense in Indiana

Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to learn how you can beat your Indiana criminal charges with aggressive defense. Attorney David E. Lewis is your solution to reducing your sentence, and protecting your freedom. If you want to avoid the maximum penalties for your criminal charges, it is important to let our skilled legal teams build an impactful defense that will sway the decision of the courts. Our Indianapolis criminal defense law firm offers free initial consultations, so you do not have to pay anything to simply talk to a lawyer and get advice on how to approach your charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule your online, over-the-phone, or in-office appointment, today.

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