Preliminary Hearing Process and Procedures

In last week’s blog, our readers were given a closer look at preliminary hearings. This week, we’ll dive a little deeper and discuss the general process and procedures you can expect. Continue reading to learn the basic steps to a preliminary hearing progression.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Let’s Begin With an Example…

Let’s say that Dale is suspected of committing a crime, but he was out of town on a company trip during the time law enforcement states the crime was committed. A preliminary hearing takes place to determine if there is enough probable cause to charge him with the crime. At the preliminary hearing, Dale’s lawyer has a co-worker testify on Dale’s behalf as proof that he was out of town on a business trip. This testimony would prove that the investigator’s evidence against Dale is inaccurate. Afterwards, prosecution and defense will give their closing statements, and then the judge will determine whether or not the evidence shows that Dale likely committed the crime in question.

Preliminary Hearing Information

The process and procedures for preliminary hearings are very complex since they differ from state to state, and from case to case. A preliminary hearing can take place before or after a person has been arrested, or after charges are formally filed. Often times, they are not even required, especially for misdemeanor charges.

For defendants who are waiting in jail, a preliminary hearing must be held with 14 days. For those out on bond, the hearing must be held within 21 days. Again, these timelines can vary among jurisdictions. In some states, defendants must request preliminary hearings so long as a formal indictment hasn’t been filed; while in other states, defendants are given the option, but have the right to waive a preliminary hearing.

You must speak with a licensed criminal defense attorney who can educate you on the specific steps and procedures you can expect with your preliminary hearing. However, here are the basic steps to the preliminary hearing process:

1. Pre-Trial Court Appearance (Arraignment)

The court explains their charges and their right to counsel, advises them of their right to a preliminary hearing and trial, appoints them a lawyer (if requested), and bail is set.

2. Preliminary Hearing

The defendant is present at the hearing. The state presents evidence to a judge showing probable cause that the defendant committed a crime. The judge determines if the evidence is sufficient. If they decide it is not enough, the charges and the case are dismissed, and the defendant is released from custody or bond. If the judge decides there is enough probable cause, the defendant is “bound over” to the district or circuit court for trial. This simply means they are moved forward in the criminal justice system, and a trial date is set for them.

Are You Currently Facing Criminal Charges?

David E. Lewis Criminal Defense Attorney

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.

What is a Preliminary Hearing?

Before a person is even charged with a crime, it is common for a preliminary hearing to take place between judges and prosecution to determine whether or not there is sufficient probable cause to believe that the person in fact committed the crime in question. Preliminary hearings are also used for other legal purposes, as uses vary among jurisdictions; however, they are mostly to determine if probable cause exists in a criminal case. Continue reading to learn more about preliminary hearings.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Preliminary Hearings

When law enforcement has good reason to believe that a person has committed a crime, this is called “probable cause.” For this reason, it is common for a preliminary hearing to occur before a person is charged with a crime. 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.

If the judge agrees that there is enough probable cause, they approve the prosecution’s request to indict a person on particular criminal charges. Other times, preliminary hearings are held directly after a person’s arrest, but before charges are filed. These types of situations are eligible for expungement if a person was arrested but never charged with a crime.

It is important to know that law enforcement and prosecution do not have to prove that a defendant committed a crime; instead, they must only provide enough probable cause to convince a judge that the defendant has committed a crime and should be held in jail or restricted under bond. Here is an example:

A person is pulled over for erratic driving. Because the officer smells alcohol on the driver’s breath, they conduct a chemical test and a field sobriety test, which the driver fails. This evidence is presented to a judge at a preliminary hearing as probable cause that the defendant broke the law by operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol. The judge agrees that the chemical test results show that the driver was operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level higher than the state legal limit, and should be held over trial. As a result, the defendant moves forward in the criminal justice system.

In a preliminary hearing, it is possible for a judge to decide that there is not enough probable cause to file charges against a person. In this case, if a person has already been arrested, they are released from custody, whether that be jail or bond. If the person has not yet been arrested, nothing happens and no further legal actions are taken against them unless law enforcement finds more evidence to prove their case.

Check back next week to learn about the preliminary hearing process and procedure to finding probable cause!

Where to Find Aggressive Criminal Defense

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

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 criminal defense law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies of defense for your case. Avoid the maximum penalties for your misdemeanor criminal charges by calling David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, today!

The Top Three Rules for Testifying in Court

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

If you must testify in court, it is in your best interest to learn exactly what you are to expect and how to conduct yourself. You can do this by discussing testimony tips with your trusted criminal defense lawyer. They have all the information you need to feel comfortable. In terms of rules and conduct, there are several to know. However, it is good to start with the 3 primary rules that will help protect yourself on the stand.

Continue reading to learn what these are rules are and how to prepare for your testimony.

➊ Understand the Question Asked

You cannot just listen to the questions asked by the attorneys. You must really pay attention so that you can fully understand what they are asking you. There is nothing wrong taking your time to think about it, or asking the attorney to repeat or reword the question. Furthermore, it is perfectly acceptable to simply say, “I do not know.” Never guess an answer. Sometimes, attorneys can use intimidation strategies that can cause stress and confusion. They may even attempt to embarrass you by having the courtroom recorder read back their last question. Just remember, this is a textbook tactic, so do not let it affect you. For this reason, it is important that you not respond to the manner in which the questions are asked. Instead, just focus on the actual questions and do not show emotions of frustration, anxiety, or anger. Your job is to simply understand the question and answer it the best you can.

➋ Only Answer the Question Asked

You do not want to divulge too much information. When asked a question by an attorney, only answer the question itself. Do not volunteer additional information. Not only does this protect you from incriminating yourself or the parties in question, it can mix you up in a web of confusing debates. For instance, if you are asked a “yes” or “no” question, only answer with one word and nothing else. Also, never answer a question with a question. This appear evasive, combative, and suspicious. Be professional, speak in your normal tone of voice, and act natural. Do not argue or present a challenge. This will only make things harder for you.

➌ Be Honest

Your job is to answer the questions, clearly, simply, and honestly. Always tell the truth because you are under oath. If somehow you are caught being misleading or dishonest, you could face criminal charges or be held in contempt of court. If a question is about you and your conduct in the past, do not try to downplay the incident or evade responsibility. Own up to it, be remorseful, and remain honest. This will make it harder for the attorney to come after you and make their point. The discomfort this may cause you is much easier than what could happen if you are caught lying.

Additional Tips That Are Vital to Your Testimony:

☛ Be on time;
☛ Dress professionally and conservatively;
☛ Be completely sober;
☛ Avoid words like “always” and “never” because it can box you in;
☛ Talk to your criminal defense attorney for the best testimony and courtroom advice;

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 to get the aggressive Indianapolis criminal defense you need to avoid the maximum penalties for your charges in Indiana. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your charges and the best strategies for defense. Don’t fall victim to the maximum penalties for your criminal charges. Let our law firm fight for your rights and protect your freedoms.

Can I Go to Jail for Criminal Contempt?

Criminal contempt is a real offense that is punishable under law. If you are found in contempt of a public authority, such as a court or legislative party, you will need a lawyer to help you avoid the maximum penalties.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514


Criminal contempt is the act of intentionally disobeying or disregarding the rules, laws, and decorum of a public authority, namely courts and legislative parties. Such an offense differs from standard criminal infractions because it violates the misconduct of a court or legislative body’s regulations, rather than a penal or state law. However, the penalties can be quite similar. Furthermore, what constitutes criminal contempt varies from state to state.

Criminal Contempt Citations

There are numerous actions and non-actions that can lead to a citation of contempt. For instance, if a court has a “no food” rule, and someone continues to eat in the courtroom, a judge can find them in contempt of court if they do not comply upon an initial warning. Other common acts of contempt include violating a court order or bond condition, disrespecting the authority of court or court officials, and similar behaviors.

Common Penalties

As mentioned, what constitutes criminal contempt is not the same across the board, nor are the penalties. The possible penalties for a contempt citation depends on the local jurisdiction and the discretion of the presiding judge. In most cases, punishments generally include one or a combination of the following;

Jail Time – Offenders face possible jail time in a local county detention center, not a state or federal prison. The length of jail time can range anywhere from one day to 6 months, and in some cases, longer.

Fines – Fines vary depending on the type of offense and the local jurisdiction. Offenders have faced fines ranging from $50 to several thousand dollars.

Permanent Record – Offenders are at risk of having their contempt of court charges on their permanent record. This means it will show up on public background checks, allowing potential employers, landlords, banks, professional licensing associations, and the rest of the general public, access to the information.

Possible Defenses for Contempt of Court

Most states do not allow appeals for contempt of court charges since they are slighter offenses that are temporarily enforced and have lesser jail times. If a person is found in contempt of court, they have two options for obtaining relief from a judge’s order. They can either file a motion to reconsider or a Writ of Habeas Corpus. The latter is an allegation that the court ruling or judge’s order was excessive punishment or without good cause, and therefore, unlawful. In most cases, a defendant is responsible for obtaining private legal representation for criminal defense; however, some states will appoint a public counselor if the defendant is facing jail time.

An Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney You Can Trust

Criminal Defense Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 to get the aggressive Indianapolis criminal defense you need to avoid the maximum penalties for your contempt of court charge in Indiana. We offer free initial consultations to discuss your charges and the best strategies for defense. Don’t fall victim to the maximum penalties. Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law at 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation, today.

Will an International Student Be Deported for Committing a Crime?

Criminal Defense for International Students 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense for International Students 317-636-7514

International students are prone to more severe penalties when they commit a crime. Not only are they subjected to the usual criminal penalties, they also face possible deportation. This means they can be sent back to their country of origin and not be allowed to return. Sometimes, the United States will not admit foreign students into the country if they have certain types of crimes on their criminal record, even if it is a misdemeanor crime in the state they wish to visit.

Which Crimes are Deportable?

International students who commit a crime “of moral turpitude” that is punishable by up to one year or more in jail may be deportable. Although the term, “moral turpitude” is vague and not technical, it refers to crimes that involve fraud or present danger to others. It can also include fleeing from a police officer, minor consumption of alcohol, and public intoxication. For this reason, charged international students must hire an experienced criminal defense lawyer who can fight for their rights to remain in our country. They may also need to consult with an immigrations lawyers.

Crimes that involve substance control possession can result in deportation. However, it depends on the type of drug and the amount in possession. It is unlikely for a student to be deported for possession of marijuana under 30 grams. On the other hand, priors and enhancements can make this type of offense a deportable one. It varies from person to person. In the case that a student is charged and convicted of an inadmissible offense (such as the example of marijuana possession above), they may not be deported, but once they do leave the country, they will not be allowed to come back ever again.

Other crimes that are deportable include those of forgery, fraud, theft, and of course, violence. There are also certain traffic offenses that may make an international student deportable. It is important for college students from another country to retain professional legal counsel if they face criminal charges in order to avoid possible deportation and inadmissibility. An international student should never appear in court without a criminal defense lawyer on their side.

Aggressive Indianapolis Criminal Defense

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

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

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for aggressive criminal defense against criminal charges and citations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies of defense for your legal situation. Call 317-636-7514 today to get started.

Can Backyard Barbecuing Be Illegal?

Before you get set to grill out this summer, be sure your barbecue practices adhere to the law.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514


You wouldn’t think that an innocent backyard barbecue could possible break the law, but it can. Looking back to an online video that went viral two summers ago, after several neighborhood complaints, a Florida resident was confronted by a county environmental inspector who insisted that they contain their barbecue smoke and odor to their own property. Although the man was never cited, but he could have been if he had chosen to not comply. So what’s the problem? Continue reading to learn how a backyard barbecue can turn illegal, and how to grill out with your legal rights.

Air Pollution and Fire Safety Ordinances

The two most common reasons why barbecue practices can be illegal are air pollution and fire safety ordinances and regulations. Certain grilling practices may breach the local ordinances surrounding these two issues, in which case, a person could be cited and fined. These rules and regulations vary among jurisdictions, so it is important to learn what you can do to stay within the boundaries of the law.

What To Do:

Check Your City Code – Cities have certain fire safety codes that all citizens must adhere to or they can be subjected to legal penalties. These codes vary, but there are common ones that remain the same in most cities. For example, a common city ordinance mandates that all grills remain at least 10 feet away from anything combustible, including walls. Another prohibits the use of charcoal and wood-fired grills on balconies and fire escapes. Also, local city air pollution codes can affect a person’s ability to grill out.

Check Your HOA – For those who live in residential communities with a Homeowners’ Association (HOA), you will need to check their rules and regulations about grilling out, too. This includes condos, gated communities, and suburban neighborhoods. For instance, these places generally have wooden decks, and grilling on a wood deck is a fire hazard. This affects the community’s ability to be insured, so many prohibit the practice altogether.

Check Your Lease’s Fine Print – If you rent, or live in an apartment, you may need to refer to your lease to check on your grilling rights. In the lease, there may be certain restrictions laid out for tenants and their guests. For instance, most apartment complexes prohibit propane grilling since most city gas codes state that you can’t store standard propane cylinders on a balcony, roof deck, backyard, or in a communal courtyard. In other cases, apartment complexes allow natural gas grills so long as they are designed for residential use and the gas lines are installed by a certified plumber.

Consequences

The most common consequences are citations and fines. These can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the violation. Talk to a licensed Indianapolis criminal defense attorney about your city citation or legal matters, and learn how you can reduce or dismiss the charges or penalties against you.

Aggressive Indianapolis Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for aggressive criminal defense against criminal charges and citations in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies of defense for your legal situation. Call 317-636-7514 today to get started.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Getting Arrested

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Movies are a poor example of what an arrest looks and feels like to the person being detained. It isn’t easy to imagine what it’s like to be arrested unless you have experienced or witnessed it first-hand. But in the case that it could happen to you, it is wise to know how to behave in accordance with the law. The stress, fear, and anxiety that comes along with being placed under arrest can be overwhelming, but one wrong move or impulsive decision can tack on additional criminal charges that come with harsher penalties, like jail time and fines. Continue reading to learn how you should handle being arrested if it ever happens to you.

What to Do:

In the case that a law enforcement officers notifies you that you are being placed under arrest, it is vital to your future and freedom to remain calm and make good decisions. Here’s how to do that:

DO remain calm and stay where you are. If you are in a car, remain seated with your hands on the wheel or dashboard, unless the officer instructs you otherwise. If you are not in a car, simply remain in the position you were in, whether sitting or standing, unless the officer instructs you otherwise.

DO allow law enforcement officers to handcuff you and place you in their police vehicle. The handcuffs will be very tight, as they are designed that way for a reason, so don’t assume they are put on wrong. If you are cooperative and calm, the officer may allow you to be handcuffed from the front for a more comfortable position.

DO be polite and cooperative with all law enforcement and jail staff. Whatever they ask of you, be respectful. The more cooperative you are, the easier the entire process will be. Whether you think so or not, they want you out of there as much as you do, and they are just doing their best to make that happen. By remaining courteous and obedient, you gain trust and respect, which may get you more jail privileges for the time you are there. Keep in mind, you can be in jail for as little as one hour, to as long as 24, depending on traffic and cooperation.

DO call a criminal defense lawyer as soon as you are given an opportunity to use a phone. They can work with you over the phone to arrange a bail and get you released you from jail. Once you are out of jail, you can start working on your case with your lawyer. The sooner you contact your lawyer, to faster they can begin building your defense.

What NOT to Do:

DON’T flee. Never try to run away from police, or attempt to flee before being placed under arrest. If you are in a car, do not try and drive away. This is a huge no-no since it leads to more serious charges, harsher penalties, and jail time. It is never worth the trouble of running because they will eventually find you, and then you are in even more trouble than what you were originally.

DON’T be argumentative and disrespectful to law enforcement. Never talk back to police officers or argue with them in any way. Do not try to test them, bother them, talk over them, or persuade them. This will only get you in more trouble, and extend the amount of time the entire process of being arrested, processed, and bailed out of jail, takes.

DON’T be disobedient and difficult with police and jail staff. You should never disobey law enforcement when they are telling you what to do. DO not disagree with them or complain about anything. You are under their care and custody, and the best way to get out is to respect and accept the process.

DON’T wait for your court date in jail if you don’t have to. Do not miss the opportunity to get out of jail with the help of a licensed bail bondsmen. You could potentially wait weeks or months in jail before a judge can see your case. Never wait in jail when you can just call your lawyer and post bail. This is also beneficial because you get to await your court date from the comfort of your home and you don’t have to miss work.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense

David E. Lewis Criminal Defense Attorney

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

Call Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to learn your rights following an arrest in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our criminal defense law firm will stop at nothing to obtain a more favorable outcome to your criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with an Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust.

Can I Use the Indiana Supreme Court Law Library to Research My Criminal Case?

The Indiana Supreme Court Law Library had its start after the year of 1867 when Indiana legislature passed an Act that gave the Supreme Court ownership and access to law books, which originated in the state library.

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Their Mission

The mission of the Indiana Supreme Court Law Library is to provide a means of research for law officials, magistrates, judges, and staff and agencies of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeals. It is also the primary law library in Indiana for various state agencies, as well as, all members of the private bar (lawyers), the Governor’s Office, the state legislature, and the general public.

What They Offer

The Indiana Supreme Court Law Library retains a full inventory of over 70,000 volumes of legal materials, law books, periodicals, case histories, court records, and more. It is also a storehouse for any publications produced under grants from the State Justice Institute. https://www.sji.gov/ It is even a selective storehouse for certain United States Government publications. The contents of the Indiana Supreme Court Law Library is accessible to all magistrates throughout the state.

Contact Information

State House, Room 316
200 W. Washington Street
Indianapolis, IN 46204

PHONE: 317-232-2557
FAX: 317-233-8693

Mon- Fri 8:30am to 4:30pm

Get Help With Your Criminal Case

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

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

If you are looking for resources to better educate yourself on the criminal charges you are facing, the Supreme Court Law Library is a fantastic place to start. It is in your best interest to speak with a licensed and experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorney to better understand the language and legal jargon you will come across during your studies. They can clearly define the charges and circumstances you are facing, as well as, build a custom, impactful defense to protect you against the maximum penalties for your charges.

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you are facing criminal charges in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer free initial consultations, so be sure to schedule yours today.

Can I Use a Recorded Phone Conversation as Evidence in Court?

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

When someone is accusing you of a crime against them that you are innocent of, it can be frustrating finding ways to prove that they are lying, especially in a court of law. Many people in this situation turn to voice recordings in order to catch the accuser admitting to their lies unknowingly. Although a good plan, it is unfortunately not a lucrative one. There are various federal and state laws regarding the types and limits to evidence admissible in court. Not only are the types of evidence limited, there are also strict regulations on the requirements for authentication.

Admissible Evidence

Although the laws surrounding evidence vary among jurisdictions, the general rule for evidence is that it cannot be used in court if it was obtained illegally. Under the individual penal codes in most states, superstitiously tape recording a phone conversation is illegal, therefore, it would not be admissible in court as evidence. To make it legal, you would have to notify the person that the conversation is being recorded, or receive their permission to record them.

✇ Both Parties Must Consent:

There are 12 states that require both parties to consent to a recorded conversation. These states include California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania and Washington.

✇ One Party Must Consent:

There are a few states in which only one party is required to give consent to a recorded conversation, and this party could be the person who chooses to record. These states include New York, Louisiana, and Texas.

The Above Rules May Be Mute Based on Predicate

Although states may have regulations that make voice recordings admissible in court, they can still be denied as evidence due to a lack of predicate. To record a conversation that can be admissible as evidence in court, you must also establish a foundation for the recorded conversation to ensure that your evidence is reliable.

Rule of Predicate Include:

1) You must show that the voice on the tape actually belongs to the person you say you are recording, rather than a person pretending to be someone else;

2) You must demonstrate that the recording device you used to make the recording is capable of providing accurate recordings.

3) You must prove that the recording is a realistic representation of the conversation that actually took place. Wind and other exterior elements can cause recordings to cut in and out, which is a problem in court.

4) You must prove that the recording was not interfered with or tampered in any way.

Consult with a Licensed Criminal Defense Lawyer

Criminal Defense Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana

Criminal Defense Lawyer 317-636-7514

Before you decide to record a conversation for the sake of having evidence for your criminal case, talk to your trusted criminal defense lawyer first. The rules and regulations for admissible evidence vary greatly among federal and state jurisdictions, so it is helpful to learn more about them from a licensed attorney with decades of experience in criminal law.

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 for aggressive criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies for your defense. Avoid the maximum penalties for your Indianapolis criminal charges by calling Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514, today.

Information About Indiana Hit and Run Laws and Penalties

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

If you are facing hit and run charges in Indiana, you need qualified and aggressive legal counsel whether you are innocent or not. Hit and run charges can be quite serious, and facing such charges is a scary situation. With an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can rest assure that your rights will be protected and your freedoms preserved. Continue reading to learn more about hit and run charges, and how they are categorized by Indiana law.

Hit and Run Charges

Anyone who is involved in a car accident and fails to stop can be charged with a hit and run offense in Indiana. In this state, it is mandatory under law to stop at the scene of a car accident if you are involved in any way. Failing to do so will result in a warrant for your arrest. Often times, drivers can be charged with a hit and run offense when they are actually innocent. For instance, license plate numbers get written down or remembered inaccurately, another person was operated the car owner’s vehicle, mistaken identity, and more are all common examples of how people are falsely accused of hit and run offenses.

In other circumstances, offenders who are guilty feel an incredible amount of stress because they are scared of what the future holds for them. If this sounds like you, the best advice you can use is to not wait a second longer to face your criminal charges. The longer you wait, the more challenging it will be to avoid the maximum charges for a hit and run offense in Indiana. Your case will just look worse to the courts as time goes on, making it less likely for them to show leniency when it comes time to hand down your sentence. This is especially true if the people in the other car were injured.

Penalties for Hit and Runs

In Indiana, a hit and run offense can range in severity when it comes to penalties. There are many factors that can influence the level of charge you face for a hit and run, including bodily harm, intoxication, and penalty enhancements like priors, school zones, possession of drugs, and more.

In general, a hit and run charge is a Class A Misdemeanor, which carries up to one year in jail and $5,000 in fines, and additional court orders such as probation, suspended license, community service, drug testing, mandatory employment, and more.

If the hit and run results in bodily harm to the other people involved in the accident, the charge increases to a Level 6 Felony, which is punishable by up to 3 years in prison, $10,000 in fines, and additional court orders like the ones mentioned before.

What To Do if You are Involved in a Car Accident

If you are ever involved in a car accident, always stop and pull over safely to the side of the road. Check to see if anyone is hurt and call 911 if anyone requires medical attention. If it if a minor accident and no one is hurt, proceed to switch contact and insurance information with the other driver. This includes phone number, drivers’ license number, license plate number, insurance information, and more.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense for Hit and Run Charges

David E. Lewis Criminal Defense Attorney

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

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you are facing hit and run charges in Indianapolis, Indiana. We will provide you with aggressive and skilled criminal defense so that your rights are protected and your freedoms are preserved. We offer free initial consultations, so be sure to schedule yours today.