Indiana Incarceration Times for Misdemeanor and Felony Convictions

Your first priority after being charged with a crime is to contact a lawyer and schedule a consultation to discuss your case and learn your rights. This consultation will also help you understand how to protect yourself during the criminal law process. Additionally, your next priority, aside from obeying the law, is to learn as much as you can about your potential charges. Some criminal convictions come with a sentence of jail time, while others do not.

Continue reading to learn what the current incarceration schedule is for all misdemeanor and felony convictions.

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

Factors that Impact the Probability of Incarceration

There are several factors that determine whether or not an offender will be sentenced to jail time after being convicted of a crime. The most impactful factors are the severity of the crime, the offender’s criminal history, and whether or not the offender is a threat to themselves or the surrounding community. See our blog, “Factors That Affect Jail Sentences” to learn more about what might influence a judge or jury to recommend incarceration. These same factors, and more, will also influence the type of jail or prison an offender will be sent to, following a conviction of incarceration.

Incarceration Sentencing Statutes for Indiana

Murder → 45 Years in Jail – Death

Level 1 Felony 20 – 40 Years in Jail

Level 2 Felony → 10 – 30 Years in Jail

Level 3 Felony → 3-16 Years in Jail

Level 4 Felony → 2 – 12 Years in Jail

Level 5 Felony → 1 – 6 Years in Jail

Level 6 Felony → 6 Months – 2.5 Years

Class A Misdemeanor → 0 – 1 Year in Jail         

Class B Misdemeanor → 0 – 3 Years in Jail         

Class C Misdemeanor → 0 – 30 Days in Jail

If you were just charged with a crime, take comfort in the knowing that there is a skilled criminal defense attorney nearby, ready to fight for your rights!

Where to Get Legal Advice For Your Indiana Criminal Charges

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with aggressive criminal defense attorney, David E. Lewis regarding your felony crimes. He will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms after being charged with invasion of privacy in Indianapolis. 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.        

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

The Importance of Witness Depositions in a Criminal Case

One of the most important strategies to be skilled at as a criminal defense attorney is attacking the prosecution’s case against their client. After all, the whole purpose of hiring a private defense lawyer is to avoid the maximum charges and penalties. One way a skilled criminal defense lawyer will do this is through witness depositions. As someone facing criminal charges, you might not think twice about the influence and effect of your case’s depositions. But the truth is, they are vital to the overall protection of your rights and preservation of your freedoms.

Continue reading to learn some facts about depositions, including why they are so important in a criminal case.

Deposition Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana
Deposition Lawyer 317-636-7514 Indianapolis Indiana

Testimonial Evidence

There are two main types of evidence submitted in a criminal defense case, both of which are equally important: physical evidence or testimonial evidence. During the discovery process, the state submits all evidence they intend to use against the defendant. This evidence can be either physical, testimonial, or both. However, often times the state lacks sufficient physical evidence, and therefore, heavily relies on any eyewitness testimony they can get their hands on. For this reason, witness depositions are very critical to the defense’s case as well.

Witness Depositions

Depositions are witness statements given under oath; the same oath anyone would take at trial or before taking the stand in court. It is a legally-binding oath that can render legal consequences if broken. Anyone who lies under oath commits the crime of perjury, which can be charged as a felony offense. Most often, depositions take place in a conference room, rather than a courtroom. Parties present during a deposition include the defense lawyer, the eyewitness, the prosecutor, and a court reporter.

Criminal defense attorneys want to make sure that the witness is credible, and will do so by conducting a series of questions during the deposition. Not only does this give a criminal defense lawyer insight on how the eyewitness might behave on the stand, it also allows them to learn the subject matter of their testimony, which in turns gives them a head start on developing a defense to attack the credibility of the witness at trial.

Credibility in Court

When an eyewitness takes the stand, their statements are not the final word. Judges and juries must find that the witness is credible, and will do so by considering various factors, such as:

✏ Their behaviors while testifying.
✏ Their relationship with the involved parties.
✏ Their personal interests, biased opinions, or prejudices.
✏ Their ability and opportunity to witness the crime.
✏ Their overall knowledge, maturity, and life experience.

Are you preparing to be a witness at trial? Read our blog, “Proper Conduct for a Trial Witness” to learn what you need to know.

Where to Get Trusted Criminal Defense 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 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!

Should I Waive My Right to a Lawyer if I Know I’ll Be Found Guilty?

After being arrested for a crime, whether a sudden arrest or when surrendering to a warrant, your first and only priority should be to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney. This is because you need legal protection. Being charged with a crime is a very serious matter, regardless of the severity of charges or penalties.

So, whether you are caught shoplifting a piece of candy or driving drunk in the possession of an unregistered firearm, a criminal record is a serious matter that can have a lasting ripple effect on your social, familial, vocational, and financial future. This is why you need skilled legal representation after an arrest.

Continue reading to learn why you should never, under any circumstances, waive your right to a lawyer, even if you are certain you’ll be handed a guilty verdict in court.

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

Legal Counsel is ALWAYS a Must

A lawyer has the skills, resources, and professional connections to work the best possible defense against your charges in order to protect your rights and preserving your freedoms. If you want to avoid the maximum penalties for your criminal charges, you need an attorney.

Public Defense

Although you have the option of choosing a public defender, who are also real lawyer, there are numerous downfalls for going that route. There are monumental differences between a public defender and a criminal defense attorney, and several advantages in using private counsel rather than public defense. But having legal representation either way is important, so be sure to never waive your right to an attorney if you are charged with a crime.

You Can’t Represent Yourself

Thinking you can represent yourself in your criminal case is a major misconception. Anyone who does not professionally practice criminal defense is incapable of representing a criminal case successfully. There are too many complexities involved, and taking the risk to represent yourself and lose your case can render severe short term consequences, but also lifelong ones.

Avoid a Criminal Record

Criminal charges don’t just come with a list of penalties, like possible jail time, hefty fines, court fees, filing costs, probation, community service, suspended drivers’ license, and random drug screening. Criminal charges come with a permanent record. Furthermore, a criminal record, regardless of its severity, can hold a person back from several opportunities in life, including viable employment, promotions, professional licenses, home ownership, proprietorship, governmental clearances, and much more. It can even implicate a couple’s ability to adopt a child.

So, it is important to handle a criminal charge it the most aggressive and sure-fire way, and that is to always take advantage of your right to hire an attorney. Never waive your right to counsel.

Choose an Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer Who Will Fight For You

Call 317-636-7514 to discuss your issues with your current legal representation with David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law. He is an aggressive and experienced Indianapolis 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 help you through the process of changing lawyers, and then build you a stronger and more impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation for Indianapolis criminal defense, today.

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

How to Meet With Your Criminal Lawyer for the First Time

Most people, especially first-time offenders, are very nervous about the initial meeting with their criminal defense attorney. After all, these are the meetings that set the tone for the rest of the legal process. This anxiety often leaves clients asking a lot of questions, like “What can I expect?”, “What am I responsible for?”, “What do I ask my lawyer?”, “What do I bring with me?” So, if you are preparing to see a criminal defense lawyer for your pending charges, you might be asking these very same questions right now.

Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about meeting with your criminal defense lawyer for the first time.

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

What to Expect at Your First Meeting

Your first meeting with your criminal defense attorney is simply a consultation. That means it will not be as long as your future meetings, nor will it entail a detailed analysis of your criminal charges and defense strategies. Instead, your initial appointment will be more like a meet and greet, in which you will get a chance to get to know your lawyer more, including their hours, pricing models, objectives, lines of communication, and more. You will also get the opportunity to discuss your case and the main facts surrounding your potential penalties and defenses. Most importantly, this meeting will be used to schedule out the rest of your meetings, including a timeline of events.

What to Bring With You

When preparing to meet with your attorney, you will need to ensure you do your part by bringing the proper materials with you. This includes all paperwork you received from your arrest, charges, jail stay, bail, and more.  In addition to these documents, you will also need to bring a valid state identification or driver’s license, and a notepad for taking notes. These are the most important items to have ready when meeting with your criminal defense lawyer.

What to Ask Your Lawyer

In addition to relevant legal documents and identification, you want to also prepare yourself with a list of questions to ask your lawyer. During your initial consult meeting, you will want to address some important topics regarding legal costs, such as lawyer fees, payments, retainer agreements, billing practices, and any other anticipated legal costs. Your attorney will be able to clearly and concisely answer all of your questions regarding billing. After deliberating these topics, it is helpful to discuss what happens next in your case. This will allow you to prepare for your case and follow through with any instructions or advice your lawyer has given you.

Where to Find a Skilled Defense Attorney in Indiana

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 are no out-of-pocket obligations to you. Get started protecting your future, today.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting for Jury Duty

For anyone who has faced the request for jury duty, or has wondered how it works, this is the article to read. Below you will find a series of the most frequently asked questions about juries, jury duty, and more. If you are concerned about a recent jury duty request, or have missed your jury duty appearance, contact a trusted criminal defense lawyer for advice on what to do next. In the meantime, read the questions below for answers to your initial jury duty inquiries.

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

What is the Age Requirement for Jury Duty?

The national age requirement to be an eligible federal court juror is 18 years old. Those over 70 years of age may request to be excused from jury duty.

How Did the Courts Get My Information?

It varies from state to state. Check with your county clerk’s office for information about how your city gets your information for jury duty. For example, in Indiana, they use the State’s voter registration and Supreme Court’s Jury List to find prospective jurors.

Is Jury Duty Mandatory?

Yes, jury duty is mandatory and you must attend; however, it is not technically illegal for someone to fail to appear, so there are no criminal consequences.

What Happens if I Fail to Appear for Jury Duty?

If you fail to appear after receiving an official summons, there are no legal consequences or penalties; instead, you will simply be placed back into the jury pool for future selection.

What Happens if I am Unable to Make My Jury Duty?

In the initial questionnaire (Juror Qualification Questionnaire), you are not yet being summoned. The actual summons will come at a later date, after the second questionnaire. When you get the second questionnaire (Federal Court Jury Service Questionnaire), you can list the dates you are unable to serve in Part 1, Question #7. If you are unable to serve the majority of the one month term requested, you will need to fill out a hardship request form. If you cannot serve because of a medical condition, submit a Physician’s Statement with your initial questionnaire (Juror Qualification Questionnaire).

What is the Difference Between a Trial Jury and a Grand Jury?

Grand juries are different from trial juries because they are assembled in order to determine whether or not there is enough probable cause to persecute. They do not rule on guilt or innocence. In fact, grand juries only hear arguments from the prosecution, not the defense.

What Kind of Case Will I Be At?

Most cases are civil, but you may be at a criminal case. You won’t know anything until the juror introductory assembly.

I Served Jury Duty in a County Court Already. Why Am I Called for Jury Duty Again?

You must also serve in a federal court. Then you are exempt from jury duty.

I Already Filled Out a Questionnaire. Why Do I Have to Fill Out Another?

Sometimes the Federal Court Jury Service Questionnaire comes months after the Juror Qualification Questionnaire. And since your information could have changed in that time, they send a second questionnaire to confirm accuracy.

I Filled Out the Questionnaire, But I Forgot to Send it in Within the 10-Day Deadline. What Do I Do Now?

Just send it in as soon as possible. The courts understand people go out of town, vacation, or have other circumstances in their life, so there is no penalty, you will just be on a waiting list.

Get Trusted Legal Advice For Your Indiana Criminal Charges

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a consultation with aggressive criminal defense attorney, David E. Lewis regarding your felony crimes. He will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms after being charged with invasion of privacy in Indianapolis. 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.

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

Can I Get Arrested For Not Paying My Taxes?

Tax Day is soon approaching, whether you are ready for it or not. Fortunately, with the recent government extensions granted to United States citizens, you will likely be well-prepared to pay your dues. But what happens to those who do not? After all, the old saying, “the only two things promised in life are death and taxes” is an adage for a reason. There are various consequences for failing to pay state and federal taxes, and similarly, consequences for lying on tax documents.

Continue reading to learn the laws surrounding tax crimes, including what to do if you have legal questions regarding your tax situation.

Indianapolis Fraud Lawyer 317-636-7514
Indianapolis Fraud Lawyer 317-636-7514

State and Federal Tax Fraud in Indiana

Intentionally not paying or under-paying your taxes, whether state, federal, or both, is a white collar crime in Indiana. Referred to as tax fraud or tax evasion, it is generally charged as a Class A Misdemeanor or Level 6 Felony.

Class A Misdemeanor – Up to 1 year in jail, with no advisory sentence. Fines up to $5,000, not including court or lawyer fees.

Level 6 Felony – Six Months to 2.5 years in jail, with an average of 1 year. Fines up to $10,000, not including court or lawyer fees.

Made Some Mistakes on Your Tax Documents?

Do not worry if you unknowingly made some errors on your tax documents. Tax mistakes are not considered tax fraud unless they are egregious or intentional.

Lying on Tax Forms

Often referred to as “cooking the books” in old gangster movies, lying on tax forms for the purpose of evading dues, defrauding the state, or receiving pecuniary benefits, is a very serious white collar tax fraud crime. It is charged as a Level 6 Felony, which is penalized by six months to 2.5 years in jail, with an advisory sentence of 1 year, and fines up to $10,000, not including court or lawyer fees.

Restitution or Jail?

In minor cases, or cases of first time offenders, courts might agree to do away with jail time if a defendant pays back the money they owe, plus any fees tacked on for late payment. Paying back taxes is referred to as restitution, and it is a common plea deal awarded in court. In order to be given the option of restitution over jail time, you must have a skilled criminal defense lawyer working your case. Otherwise, you are subjected to being sentenced to the maximum penalties for your crime.

Trust an Experienced Indiana Fraud Lawyer

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law at 317-636-7514 to get help with your Indiana fraud charges, today. Whether charged with fraud or some other type of white collar crime, our Indianapolis criminal defense law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss the best strategies of defense for your case. Avoid the maximum penalties for your criminal charges by calling David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, today!

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

Am I Eligible for a Hardship Drivers License in Indiana?

After having your driver’s license suspended, life changes quite a bit. You never truly realize how much of a privilege it is to be allowed to drive a car. For that reason, you are likely very motivated to earn your driving privileges back, or at least be approved for an alternative, probationary driver’s license, also known as a hardship license.

Continue below to learn more about Indiana hardship driver’s licenses, how to determine if you qualify, and where to get started if you do.

Indiana Driver's License Lawyer 317-636-7514
Indiana Driver’s License Lawyer 317-636-7514

Suspended Driver’s Licenses

The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) suspends licenses for several reasons. Most often, they suspend driver’s licenses for habitual traffic offenses or being cited for reckless driving, which includes driving on a suspended license, driving without insurance, and leaving the scene of an accident. However, the BMV will also suspend licenses for OWI convictions, drug convictions, not paying child support, failing to appear for court, failing to pay BMV fines, and much more. Generally, driver’s licenses are suspended up to one year, but can be suspended even longer under certain circumstances. For this reason, it is important to retain professional legal counsel to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms.

Indiana Hardship Licenses

For standard drivers, losing driving privileges can be incredibly inconvenient and dispiriting. For those who rely on a driver’s license to earn an income, it can pose a very traumatic ripple of effects in both personal and professional life. Regardless of why you rely on your driving privileges, it is in your best interest to get your license back as soon as possible. One such alternative offered in Indiana for those with a suspended driver’s license is known as a hardship license. A hardship license, also known as a probationary driver’s license, is a provisional license that allows you to drive under strict and specific terms and conditions. The primary benefit of a hardship license is that it gives you permission to drive to important places, such as school, work, or medical appointments. 

Qualifying for a Probationary License

Not all individuals qualify for a hardship license, as there are several prerequisites that one must meet to be considered eligible. But there is some good news; back in 2015, on January 1, Indiana’s hardship license law went into effect. Since then, many more individuals have become eligible for a hardship license. This means, if you did not qualify for one before, you might qualify now! See our blog, “Indiana’s Specialized Driving Privileges May Be Your Solution to a Suspended License” to learn more. Then contact a skilled Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer for help determining your eligibility and submitting your petition!

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law in Indianapolis

Call 317-636-7514 to discuss your issues with your current legal representation with David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law. He is an aggressive and experienced Indianapolis 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 help you through the process of changing lawyers, and then build you a stronger and more impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges. Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation for Indianapolis criminal defense, today.

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

Why Choose David E. Lewis for Indiana Criminal Defense

The Law Firm of David E. Lewis is a trusted criminal defense practice based out of Indianapolis, but represents clients charged with misdemeanor and felony crimes all throughout the state of Indiana. Attorney David E. Lewis, and his team of erudite legal professionals, are well-versed in criminal law. We are passionately dedicated to acting as an advocate for our clients during their legal troubles. We want what’s fair, and will stop at nothing to preserve and protect our clients’ rights following an arrest. But these are not the only reasons why you should choose us for your criminal case in Central Indiana.

Continue reading to learn why so many Hoosiers trust Attorney David E. Lewis with the duty of protecting them against the maximum penalties for their criminal charges.

Experience Matters Most When Choosing an Attorney

David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, has accumulated extensive trial and litigation experience since graduating from Indiana University Law School in 1990. But his aptitude of criminal law doesn’t just stem from education and books, but rather from his real-life experiences and trial situations. His years of hands-on experience and his extensive knowledge of all sides of the law makes him a strong and dependable criminal defense lawyer today. His practice has always included criminal law because he has a sincere passion to help those in crisis. As a Member of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association and Indianapolis Law Club, you can rest assure knowing your future and freedom are in capable and caring hands.

Because of his comprehensive understanding of Indiana criminal law process, he is confident in his ability to obtain exceptional outcomes for his clients no matter how minor or serious their criminal charges are against them. Hire David E. Lewis today so that you can have an increased chance at getting your legal charges dropped or reduced in Indiana. His expertise and compassion are the two principle attributes that set his practice apart from others here in Indianapolis.

Facing an Investigation?

If under investigation or charged with a crime in Indiana, your future and freedom could be in jeopardy. Your next few moves could greatly influence and impact your case, so having an adept defense attorney on your side is a monumental advantage for yourself and your future. Here at The Law Office of David E. Lewis, we are ready to be your number-one advocate through this difficult time in your life.

Attorney David E. Lewis has successfully represented numerous clients facing complex criminal charges in Indiana, and knows how to navigate prefile 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.

Get in Touch for a Consultation TODAY

If you do not already have a licensed Indiana 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 Indiana 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.

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

Typical Sentence for Indiana Shoplifting Charge

Were you recently arrested for shoplifting? Petty or not, you are facing some serious criminal charges as an Indiana resident. However, with the right representation and knowledge, you can fight your shoplifting charges in order to avoid the maximum penalties typically handed down in court upon sentencing. Continue reading to learn what to expect in terms of being sentenced for shoplifting in Indiana, as well as, who to trust for aggressive criminal defense near you.

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

Indiana Shoplifting Crimes

Here in Indiana, the crime of shoplifting falls under the umbrella category of larceny, which is theft. In fact, there is not a separate crime specifically for shoplifting; it is simply charged as theft. In However, shoplifting is still appointed a definition, which is willfully taking and concealing merchandise that is for sale, and in turn, permanently depriving the owner of the merchandise by not paying the purchasing price. From minor shoplifting and burglary, to robbery, fraud, grand theft auto, embezzlement, and more, the list of possible types of theft crimes is virtually endless.

Theft Penalties

Unfortunately, theft is charged as a felony in our state. But when it comes to the crime of shoplifting, you can feel relief knowing that, because it is more on the minor side of theft offenses, shoplifters are often prosecuted for a lesser offense known as conversion, which is typically a Class A Misdemeanor. You see, while theft is considered an act of taking something that belongs to someone else with the intention of depriving them of that item forever, the act of conversion occurs when a person takes something from someone without permission, but with the intention of returning. This is referred to under law as criminal conversion, which is a less severe charge than theft. An example of criminal conversions would be if a person takes another person’s car without permission, but intends on returning it to the owner later on.

However, after being arrested for shoplifting, it is not guaranteed that you will be charged with conversion. That is because the overall monetary value of the items stolen will greatly affect your ultimate sentence. The higher the value, the more severe of a sentence you can expect. In Indiana, shoplifting (or theft) will get you anywhere from Class A Misdemeanor, all the way up to a Level 5 felony. The level of punishment for shoplifting depends on the total value of the items or goods stolen.

Here are the standard sentences for shoplifting in Indiana, which can be read in detail under Indiana Code §35-43-4-1 through §35-43-4-3:

Value Less than $750 = Class A Misdemeanor
Value Between $750 and $50,000 = Level 6 Felony
Value Greater Than $50,000 (or a Vehicle) = Level 5 Felony

Prosecutors in Indiana have the discretion of charging a defendant with something as low as an infraction, to something as high as a Level 5 felony. For instance, a teenager who steals a pack of gum from the gas station will likely get off with an infraction, while a habitual cat burglar will be handed down a severe sentence that likely includes jail time.

Your Best Option for Beating an Indiana Theft Charge

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you have been charged with shoplifting or theft in Indianapolis or anywhere else within Central Indiana. Our law firm offers aggressive and experienced criminal defense for anyone facing theft crimes in Indiana. Don’t settle for an attorney that doesn’t have the drive. Attorney David E. Lewis will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. We also offer criminal record expungement services to help clean up your criminal history and improve your quality of life!

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

The Best Advice on Managing an Arrest Warrant

Fear, anxiety, and paranoia are just a few emotions experienced by a person with a warrant out for their arrest. A warrant means jail time, at any time. Being stopped by a police officer or government official can put you in a situation where your warrant can be easily discovered. This could be while trying to renew your drivers’ license at the BMV, or being stopped for a routine traffic ticket on the road.

Once a warrant is discovered, there are no negotiations; you are instantly arrested and taken to jail. So, when there is a warrant out for your arrest, relieve yourself of all the fear, stress, and potential legal repercussions by simply preparing yourself for a surrender. First, you must confirm whether or not there is an active warrant in your name.

Continue reading to learn how you can look up an arrest warrant for yourself, and which option is the best.

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

Legal Preparation is the Key to a Successful Surrender

For someone who is not rightfully prepared to turn themselves into the jail, being taken into custody can result in undesirable situations. For instance, they can jeopardize their job by missing work without notice because they did not have a chance to discuss it with the boss and set aside days off work to handle the warrant. They will also miss out on an opportunity to retain legal representation to manage their surrender, bail, and defense. When a person is arrested unexpectedly, there is no telling when they will be released from jail. 

When you are prepared to surrender to an arrest warrant, in most cases, it only takes a few hours from start to finish. Of course, this result is greatly influenced the type of lawyer representing your surrender and defense. Those with outstanding warrants for their arrests find it easier in the long run to prepare to turn themselves in rather than risk being caught at an unexpected time.

So, take their advice if you are facing one yourself. Surrendering to an arrest warrant is not convenient, but it avoids many dilemmas and headaches. Children are accounted for, work time is re-arranged with the permission of your boss, and bail is already set up. This will result in a quick and speedy bail process. 

 How to Find Out if You Have an Outstanding Warrant

There are several safe and reliable ways to figure out if there is a warrant out for your arrest. One option is to call the police station, directly. They can look up your information over the phone and determine whether or not there is an active warrant under your name. If you know the particular county that your warrant was issued from, call that police station. 

Another option is to call the courthouse. Like the police, they too will have information on your case, as well as instructions on how to turn yourself in. It may be possible in your area to check online if you have a warrant, but these are not recommended nor verified resources.

The best strategy for managing an arrest warrant is to contact a licensed Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer. They can coordinate your surrender, or perhaps even dismiss it altogether. From there, they can build you an impactful defense to fight your criminal charges.

Where to Get Trusted Criminal Defense 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 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!