What You Need to Know About Pre-File Investigations

Posted on October 9, 2018 by admin

Not all crimes are witnessed by police, but that does not mean that a suspect gets away with it. When law enforcement does not personally witness a crime being committed, but suspects a specific person of committing the said crime, they can be granted permission to pursue a legal process known as a “pre-file investigation.”

Continue reading to learn more about pre-file investigations and how they might affect your criminal case.

Indianapolis Pre-File Investigation Lawyer 317-636-7514

What is a Pre-File Investigation?

Pre-file investigations take place before an arrest is actually made. Furthermore, they can take anywhere from a few days to a few years to complete. Pre-file investigations are meant to give law enforcement an adequate opportunity to locate and gather enough evidence against a suspect so that they may be indicted on criminal charges.

For instance, if an employee is suspected of stealing from the corporate account, law enforcement may need time to gather documents, records, witness statements, social media timelines, and more, all to prove that the employee has committed a crime and should be charged.

You Need Aggressive Criminal Defense

Pre-file investigations are a very early stage in the criminal process, which is also a time that is critical for anyone under investigation. When a pre-file investigation is being held against a suspect, they need to have a criminal attorney on their side who can build an effective and strong defense BEFORE the investigation can be completed and prosecution can make their move. Without a strong defense, not only are suspects at a much higher risk of being convicted, they are also at a higher risk of being sentenced to the maximum penalties for their alleged crimes.

If you are under investigation for a crime in Indiana…

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for aggressive Indianapolis criminal defense you can trust. He has successfully represented numerous clients facing complex criminal charges in Indiana, and knows exactly how to navigate pre-file investigations in his client’s favor. He has a comprehensive understanding of Indiana’s criminal and prosecution process, and can use this behind-the-scenes knowledge to obtain a better-quality outcome to your case. Schedule a free initial consultation, today.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Collar Crimes

Posted on September 17, 2018 by admin

If someone you love is facing serious felony charges for a white collar crime, you may be scared and confused. It can help alleviate your stress and discomfort by learning a little more about white collar crimes and criminal defense.

White Collar Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

What is a White Collar Crime?

This is one of the most common questions people have about white collar crimes. FindLaw.com defines a white collar crime as “a crime committed through deceit and motivated by financial gain.” This definition is very basic, but also very realistic. There are several different types of white collar crimes that a person can commit, but out of all the possible offenses, fraud and theft tend to be the root of them all. And within the realm of fraud and theft, even more types of white collar crimes exist, such as embezzlement, tax evasion, money laundering, insider trading, Ponzi schemes, and more.

What are the Most Common White Collar Crimes?

The most common types of white collar offenses include theft, scams, and fraud. Common types of white collar fraud include bank, wiring, check, insurance, prescription, securities, and mortgage fraud. Bribery, forgery, employment theft, embezzlement, tax evasion, money laundering, insider trading, and Ponzi schemes are also very common white collar offenses.

What are the Most Serious White Collar Crimes?

The most serious types of white collar offenses are those with large sums of money or assets involved. The more money or financial gain that occurs as a result of the crime, that harsher the penalties will be. In fact, white collar crimes are usually prosecuted in federal court, not state court, since most are felony offenses, which are punishable by prison time and more.

Do I Need a Lawyer if I am Facing White Collar Criminal Charges?

Yes; you will absolutely require private, professional criminal defense to stand up to your white collar charges. White collar criminal investigations are usually tedious, complex, and intense. You are not in the best hands with a public defender because their case loads are just too big. Your future and your freedom depends on your defense, so be sure you hire an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer who will fight for your rights.

Indianapolis White Collar Crime Lawyer

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law at 317-636-7514 for white collar criminal defense you can trust. He uses every resource in his power to aggressively defend your rights and protect your freedoms so that you can avoid the maximum penalties for your charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your white collar criminal charges, today.

The 3 types of Affirmative Defenses

Posted on July 23, 2018 by admin

There are numerous possible defenses a defendant can use to fight their criminal charges. Regardless of which one they choose, it will fall under one of two categories: affirmative and negating. Under the affirmative defense category, there are 3 particular types that are common in criminal law. These include justification, excuse, and alibi affirmative defenses.

Continue reading to learn more about each type of criminal defense, including how to get a head start on yours. You may also benefit from reading our blog about The Difference Between Affirmative and Negating Defenses to understand the two primary categories of defense.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

An affirmative defense is a category of defense used by a defendant who wishes to evade accountability of their criminal charges by presenting new evidence that was not previously addressed in the plaintiff’s claims. Here are the 3 types :

❶ Justification Defenses

Justification defenses are defenses that essentially justify why a defendant committed a crime. Under this defense approach, a defendant would admit they committed the crime, while also insisting they did so for good reason. Self-dense is a perfect example of when a defendant might use this affirmative defense. For instance, if a father killed an armed intruder to protect his family, he would likely use a justification defense. Law enforcement defense is another prime example.

❷ Excuse Defenses

An excuse defense is when a defendant admits they committed a crime, but wishes to be excused for the offense by offering an excuse as to why they did it. The insanity defense is a prime example. Other types of excuse defenses include mental illness, intoxication, diminished capacity, duress, and even infancy (a child or youth). For instance, if a woman is charged with resisting arrest and threatening police officers, and defends her actions by claiming she has a mental illness, she would be using an excuse defense. Another example would be if a man robbed a store under extreme duress because his wife was being held hostage by the criminals forcing him to commit a crime.

❸ Alibi Affirmative Defenses

Alibi affirmative defenses are quite common and much different from the other two types of defenses mentioned above. When a defendant uses an alibi affirmative defense, they are not admitting guilt, responsibility, or having any kind of involvement in the alleged criminal charges. They use defense by providing legitimate evidence of an alibi. An alibi is proof that the defendant was somewhere else when the crime took place, making it impossible for them to have committed the crime. Often times, this type of defense is used alongside a negating defense for best results.

How to Get Started on Your Defense

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation and case evaluation. During this meeting, which is free of charge, you have the opportunity to sit down with Attorney David E. Lewis and discuss your Indiana criminal charges and the best strategies for your defense. Call as soon as today!

Does it Matter Where I Hire My Criminal Defense Attorney?

Posted on July 17, 2018 by admin

If you were just recently arrested on criminal charges, the very first place to start is to hire a licensed criminal defense lawyer right away. Without private criminal defense, you risk jeopardizing your rights, your freedom, and your future. One of the most common questions about hiring a criminal lawyer involves location. Defendants like you want to know whether or not they have to hire a defense attorney in the same county as their pending criminal case.

The truth is, the answer to this question is not so cut and dry.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

Local Versus Non-Local Attorneys

The choice to hire locally or not is entirely up to you as the defendant. Your choice will be based on several factors, including your personal preference, circumstances of the case, appointed county prosecutors, opposing attorneys, judges, and much more.

For instance, if you are from a small town, you might want to hire locally because all the judges, attorneys, and prosecutors know each other well and have long-standing relationships, which could help your lawyer get you a better deal. Of course, this is not always the case in a small town. In an opposing example, if you are from a small town and facing serious criminal charges in a large city, you may choose to hire out of town in hopes of retaining a lawyer with better knowledge of big city politics.

What You Really Need to Know

The reality is that it does not matter where you hire your attorney. Hiring locally or out of town doesn’t make a difference for most criminal cases. It is the lawyer that makes the difference. However, the general rule of thumb is to hire an attorney in the city your charges are pending.

The most important part about hiring a criminal attorney is choosing one that is well-versed in the area of law you are dealing with, and one with extensive trial and litigation experience. They have the knowledge and resources it takes to build a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges.

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with aggressive Indiana criminal defense attorney, David E. Lewis. He 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 criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation for Indianapolis criminal defense, today.

Can a Cop Be Fired For Inappropriately Using a Non-Lethal Weapon?

Posted on May 25, 2018 by admin

Law enforcement are the country’s first line of defense, so it is important to appreciate their line of work and understand the dangers they face on a day to day basis. For this reason, they are legally trained and equipped to carry and use a wide variety of lethal and nonlethal weapons, including guns, knives, batons, and Tasers. Although they are permitted to use these weapons at their discretion, it doesn’t give them the right to abuse or overuse their power.

In the case of nonlethal weapons, this has come up quite a bit in the recent years. People want to know what happens when a cop excessively uses their non-lethal weapon. Is it still lawful? Are there consequences for the police officer? Does the defendant have rights?

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Peru City Police Department v. Martin

Every situation involving the actions, behaviors, and protocols of law enforcement’s action varies greatly, and should always be assessed on the individual facts surrounding the case. For example, take a look at the case of “Peru City Police Department v. Martin”.

In the lawsuit, after an officer repeatedly employed a Taser on an elderly nursing home patient suffering from Alzheimer’s, Peru Police Chief Steve Hoover recommended dismissal of Officer Martin for excessive use of force and conduct unbecoming of an officer. The City of Peru Board of Public Works and Safety conducted a hearing and agreed with Chief Hoover; Officer Martin was discharged and sought review in the trial court.

The court of appeals reviews the decision of a municipal safety board like a decision of an administrative agency, “limited to whether the [board] decision rests upon substantial evidence, whether the decision was arbitrary and capricious, and whether it was contrary to any constitutional, statutory, or legal principle.” The trial court tossed out his firing and entered over one hundred “reasons that Board’s decision should not be affirmed.” However, the appellate panel disagreed, finding the trial court erred in substituting its own judgment for that of the police chief and board.

The panel focused its analysis on the Taser training Officer Martin underwent as part of his role as an officer. He had been specifically instructed that exposure for over 15 seconds, whether due to multiple applications or a continuous one, increased the risk of death or serious injury. In total, the nursing home patient was exposed for 31 seconds. The panel concluded, “Substantial evidence supports the Board’s findings, and its decision to terminate Martin for use of excessive force and conduct unbecoming of an officer was not arbitrary and capricious.”

Do You Have Questions About Your Criminal Charges?

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

If you do not already have a licensed 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 is no out-of-pocket obligations to you. Call 317-636-7514 and get started protecting your future, today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Going to Criminal Court

Posted on May 11, 2018 by admin

You don’t have to be ashamed if you’re frightened after being charged with a crime. Almost everyone feels this way when facing criminal charges, especially if they are first-time offenders. Right now, you are asking yourself a mountain of questions that you cannot possibly answer on your own; and this only adds more anxiety and frustration. One of the topics that defendants have about their criminal case has to do with the court system. This is quite understandable since court policies and procedures differ greatly from city to city, and depend on the severity and type of crime.

To help put your mind at ease, talk to your trusted Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer for professional advice pertaining to your unique case. In the meantime, familiarize yourself with some common answers to some frequently asked questions about criminal court.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

What are the Types of Criminal Courts in Indiana?

The three main types of specialized criminal courts include major felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile court. Each court system deals with the specific charges and penalties under their category. However, this can also depend on the county in which your crimes originated. And in some cases, minors are tried as adults in felony or misdemeanor court if their crimes are severe.

What is a Preliminary Hearing?

Essentially, preliminary hearings are the beginning of the indictment process for many criminal cases. Prosecution will build a case against a suspected defendant, and then bring it to a judge for approval to move forward with filing formal charges against the defendant.

Is a Failure to Appear a Crime?

Yes. If a person misses a mandatory court hearing, they will be issued a bench warrant. This is a type of arrest warrant that demands a person’s presence on the judge’s bench. When a person has a bench warrant, they can be arrested and taken into custody at any time, whether during a routine traffic stop or at their front door. They can post bail and be released from police custody in most cases, but they will have to sit in jail for at least a few hours.

What Can I Expect From a Public Defender?

A public defender is a court-appointed attorney that is paid by the government to represent defendants that are incapable of affording private legal counsel. Generally, they are given to those facing jail time for misdemeanor or felony charges. Although they are fully-qualified lawyers, public defenders often carry a stigma implying otherwise. They have the equivalent training and licenses and extensive courtroom experience that private lawyers do. But this does not mean they should be a first choice for someone facing serious criminal charges.

Can I Represent Myself in a Criminal Case?

Yes, but you should never do this. You do not have the adept knowledge of the law, nor the long-standing professional relationships with the local courts, prosecutors, and judges. Furthermore, a licensed criminal defense lawyer has the competence to build an impactful and aggressive defense on your behalf to protect you from being sentenced to the maximum penalties if convicted.

What Will Happen at My Trial?

What happens at your trial will depend on several factors, including the type of court your case is being adjudicated in, your criminal history, the severity of crime, and your representing attorney. Talk to your lawyer to get a better understanding of what to expect at your trial. It is likely that you will have more than one hearing or trial.

How to Get Started on Your Defense

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Attorney David E. Lewis Answers Your Questions About Criminal Defense!

Posted on May 1, 2018 by admin

You don’t have to face your criminal charges alone. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, is here to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms using every possible resource available. In fact, he is also here to answer all of your questions about criminal charges, criminal defense, court, and more!

Criminal Defense Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Continue below to review some of the common questions Attorney David E. Lewis receives from his clients about their criminal defense. If you do not see your particular question below, simply contact us directly for immediate assistance. All first-time clients are eligible for a free initial consultation to discuss the details surrounding their case, anytime.

Will I Go to Jail for My Charges?

There is no way of knowing the future. Even if the law says a certain crime is punishable by a certain amount of jail time, every case is different and courts may decide to reduce charges by eliminating jail time or entering into alternative sentencing agreements. In Indiana, community service is often substituted in place of serving jail time. It all depends on the skills of your defense lawyer and your criminal record.

Can My Charges Get Dropped?

It is vital to hire an experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer directly after an arrest or investigation, BEFORE criminal charges can be filed, for any chance of them getting dropped. Once charges are filed, it is EXTREMELY rare for them to be dropped, but it is possible with the right defense.

How Much Does a Criminal Attorney Charge?

When your life and freedom are on the line, don’t let money get in the way. It is important to never establish your decision on a criminal attorney based on price. Some law firms charge more than others, while some charge less than they should. If the price quote seems too good to be true from a defense attorney, it may be because they are inexperienced and trying to build their practice. Choose David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law to get you the fairest possible outcome for your case; not an attorney with a cheap retainer fee. After all, your future and freedom depends on it!

What Will a Criminal Lawyer Do that a Public Defender Can’t Do?

Public defenders often work for larger firms, and do not do the investigation and research on their cases themselves. Instead, paralegals and investigators do most of the work, leaving the public defender out of the loop on details about the case circumstances. This leaves them unqualified and unequipped to effectively fight a person’s criminal charges. A criminal lawyer does all the investigative research themselves, and personally commits to every detail of the case. This is just one reason why they are the most promising choice for defense.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney?

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Yes, if you want to avoid jail or have your charges dropped or reduced. Although you can choose to use a public defender, a stronger chance at dismissing criminal charges or entering into alternative sentencing agreements is by hiring a licensed defense lawyer. They have the experience, litigation skills, and acute knowledge of the law to effectively build a defense that challenges your criminal allegations and pursue a more favorable outcome for your case. Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for
personalized legal representation you can trust.

The Basics of Criminal Discovery

Posted on April 10, 2018 by admin

When a person is accused of a crime, they have several rights according to our country’s Constitution. Of these rights, a common criminal process called discovery is not necessarily one of them. However, it is a process that can be highly pertinent to a criminal case.

Continue reading to learn more about the criminal discovery process and who to trust for professional legal advice regarding your criminal charges.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

The United States Constitution gives all criminal defendants the right to face their accuser in trial, but it does not provide them the right to know details of all the evidence the prosecution has against them. Although the U.S. Constitution does not decree this as a citizen right, there is a process known as criminal discovery that allows a defendant to have knowledge of the evidence that will be presented in trial in support of the prosecuting attorney’s case.

Most states do not give criminal defendants the automatic right to discovery, but many will still allow it depending on a range of factors. Each state has their own unique set of procedures for criminal discovery, all of which are contingent on timing, method, time frame, and more. Regardless of state legislation, all defendants have a particular constitutional right to exculpatory evidence, also known as “Brady Evidence” (Brady v. Maryland case). If a state fails to comply with this right, it is known as a “Brady violation.”

Civil vs. Criminal Discovery

The discovery process is a likely opportunity for both parties in civil cases, such as tort claims and divorces. That is because most states have rules that give all civil parties the automatic right to request any type of information or evidence. In criminal cases, however, the process is much different. In contrast to civil cases, the prosecution does not have to obtain evidence the defense would like to have; instead, they must disclose the evidence they already have against the defendant.

Similarly, state agencies have rules that govern how a defendant can get information about the evidence against them, including when they can obtain it and to what extent. Because a defendant must make a written motion to formally request criminal discovery, as well as, appear at a hearing to acquire a ruling approving discovery, it is strongly recommended to hire a licensed Indianapolis criminal defense attorney who can implement all the legal paperwork and defend your rights.

Criminal Defense That Doesn’t Stop Fighting For You

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for Indianapolis criminal defense that never stops fighting to preserve your rights and your freedoms. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your charges and the best strategies for defense. Contact us today to learn your rights and how to get started on your defense.

Attorney David E. Lewis Offers Impactful Criminal Defense for Theft Crime Offenses in Indiana

Posted on April 4, 2018 by admin

Theft Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

There are several types of theft crimes a person can face in Indiana. Whether charged with petty shoplifting, or arrested for auto theft, theft crimes can come with lasting consequences and serious legal penalties. If you were arrested for a theft crime in Indiana, it is vital to your case to learn your rights and the penalties you face. You could be sentenced to prison, extreme fines, and more if you do not take action fast. The only way to protect yourself from receiving the maximum penalties for theft charges is to hire a tough and experienced criminal lawyer.

Attorney David E. Lewis has represented numerous theft crime cases, and can save you from unfair penalization for theft charges. He is the theft lawyer that is known for aggressive and powerful defense, using his thorough understanding of courtroom procedures and tactics from his hands-on experience to win the most favorable outcome possible for his clients. Look below at all of the different cases our law firm handles here in Indiana.

Our Theft Crimes Defense Practice Areas Include:

☑ AUTO THEFT
☑ CREDIT CARD THEFT
☑ BURGLARY
☑ FRAUD
☑ SHOPLIFTING
☑ ACCEPTING STOLEN GOODS
☑ MISDEMEANOR THEFT
☑ FELONY THEFT
☑ ROBBERY
☑ AND MORE

Auto Theft Charges

The act of stealing a vehicle is called auto theft. Although portrayed differently in the media, car theft is not the glamorous and exciting crime as seen on television, but rather a serious Indiana felony crime that comes with lasting consequences. If you have been charged with auto theft in Indiana, it is vital to your future and your freedom to retain competent legal services. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, has extensive trial and litigation experience in the criminal law field and knows how to position you in front of the courts in a way that’s most favorable to your case.

Robbery and Burglary Charges

Burglary, also referred to as “breaking and entering”, is a serious felony crime that often results in multiple criminal charges since more than one crime is usually committed. A person can be charged with the crime of burglary if they illegally enter any type of structure, not just homes. This includes businesses, schools, trailers, campers, houseboats, tents, campsites, and more. Robbery is the crime of taking another person’s money or property by either instilling fear in them, or using force, violence, or intimidation.

Depending on whether or not a weapon was used to commit the crime, robbery is generally charged as either Level 6 or Level 5 felony offenses. In Indiana, the penalties for robbery and burglary charges are at felony levels, and can affect several aspects of your life, both instantaneously and long-term. To avoid prison sentences and over-penalization, you need a theft attorney who knows burglary and robbery criminal law. David E. Lewis is the tough and driven criminal lawyer that will work around the clock to and protect your best interests and secure your freedom!

Shoplifting Charges

Taking merchandise from a commercial store or business without paying for it is a shoplifting crime. But for objects of high value, a person can potentially face grand larceny charges, an offense that comes with a much more serious conviction. Although not the most serious of misdemeanor and felony theft crimes, shoplifting is still penalized harshly in Indiana, and can subject a person to jail time and expensive fines. With competent legal counsel, however, those charged with shoplifting have a stronger chance at dropping or reducing their charges and avoiding strict penalties!

An Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney You Can Trust

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your theft criminal charges with a seasoned Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. You can avoid the maximum penalties for your charges with our aggressive legal representation! Call 317-636-7514 to get started, today.

The Difference Between Affirmative and Negating Defenses

Posted on March 27, 2018 by admin

There are various types of defenses in criminal law. However, all defenses can be categorized as either affirmative or negating. Continue reading to learn the difference between these two defenses, and who to trust for professional legal advice regarding your current criminal charges.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Affirmative Defenses

In the case that a defendant admits guilt to a particular crime, but also offers additional evidence and information in attempt to justify, excuse, or explain their actions, they are using what’s called an affirmative defense. If you have ever watched a crime television show, you may have seen examples of such defenses in a fictional courtroom.

Common affirmative defenses include self-defense, alibis, infancy (a child or youth), mental illness, intoxication, and insanity. Additional examples include being framed, error of fact, diminished capacity, duress, and similar types of circumstances or conducts. If an affirmative defense is successful, it usually means that the defendant’s liability for the crime is reduced or absolved.

Negating Defenses

In contrast to affirmative defenses, negating defenses are used to scrutinize or question an indispensable element of the criminal charge brought forth by the prosecution. This can be a useful strategy for defense since the prosecutor carries the burden of proving the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Negating defenses help create doubt surrounding the evidence that the prosecution is using to convict the defendant.

However, in order for a negating defense to have a chance at being successful, sufficient evidence must be presented to support the element of the criminal charge in question. This must include physical evidence, such as video surveillance, voice recordings, eye witnesses, alibis, and other forms of tangible proof.

Talk to Your Lawyer

The permitted use of affirmative defenses vary from state to state. In most states, two types are generally accepted: excuses and justifications. In cases where a defendant denies guilt altogether, the alibi affirmative defense is common. Talk to your trusted Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer for help understanding the best strategy for defense to fight your criminal charges. They can build you a strong and impactful case to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Law Firm

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for aggressive criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies of defense for your case. We work around the clock to ensure your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. You CAN avoid the maximum penalties for your charges with our aggressive legal representation. Call 317-636-7514 to get started, today.