Where to Get Aggressive Criminal Defense in Indianapolis

Posted on September 20, 2022 by admin

Don’t get stuck with the maximum penalties for your suspected crimes. Talk to a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis about possibly dismissing or reducing your Indiana criminal charges. But who can you trust to have compassion for your life, and work around the clock to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms? Choose the criminal defense attorney that so many other Hoosiers have in the past, David E. Lewis.

Criminal Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

Attorney David E. Lewis Will Get You the Best Possible Legal Outcome

When you are charged with a crime in Indiana, trust an aggressive and experienced Indianapolis criminal defense attorney to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. Attorney David E. Lewis is the only professional authority for the job. He has decades of experience working in the criminal law field and has successfully defended thousands of offenders all over the state. He has been able to recover reduced sentences and even have charges dismissed for several of his past clients and will do everything in his power to provide the same results for you!

Your Case is His Top Priority

Attorney David E. Lewis will work around the clock to build a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges, all while remaining a constant advocate for you during the entire legal process. He truly has his clients’ best interests in mind at all times, and never passes judgement on anyone that calls or comes through his doors. He strongly believes you are innocent until proven guilty! Don’t let a novice criminal defense attorney lead your case. They may not have the evolved knowledge from years of hands-on experience; an attribute that sets David E. Lewis apart from other entry-level criminal attorneys.

Your Chance at a Better Future

You have a realistic chance at avoiding jail time, thousands of dollars in fines, and other extreme penalties for drug crimes when you have an experienced Indianapolis defense attorney behind you. David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, is fully equipped to take on your criminal case and fight for your rights. With him and our professional legal team on your side, you will have the professional guidance and knowledge it takes to remain strong and emotionally intact during your criminal legal proceedings.

Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a meeting with our experienced Indianapolis criminal defense law firm. We can hold meetings over the phone or in person at our Indy-based office.

Are Dropped Charges the Same as Dismissed Charges?

Posted on August 17, 2022 by admin

When criminal charges are no longer being held against you, they have either been dropped or dismissed. Although they render virtually the same results, charges dropped and charges dismissed are two different criminal outcomes. Continue reading to learn the difference between dropped charges and dismissed charges, including the pros and cons of each.

The Prosecutor Decides to Drop or Dismiss Charges

In criminal cases, the prosecution holds the burden of proving that the defendant is guilty of the criminal charges. Also known as the People, the State, or in federal cases, the United States, the prosecutor will ultimately make the decision to either drop, dismiss, or pursue the criminal charges against a defendant of the court. If the prosecutor chooses to pursue the criminal charges against a defendant, they must prove every element of the criminal act beyond a reasonable doubt. Because this is a challenging burden to undertake, prosecution will sometimes choose to drop or dismiss the criminal charges instead.

Criminal Charges That Are Dropped

Criminal charges can be dropped before or after charges have been filed with the court. The most common reason why charges are dropped in criminal cases is due to insufficient evidence. As we mentioned before, prosecutors have the burden of proving every single factor of a crime beyond a reasonable doubt. If there are holes in their case against the defendant, they may lack confidence in their ability to prove their assertions beyond a reasonable doubt.

Additional reasons why prosecutors might drop charges include errors in law enforcement procedures and violation of amendment rights, specifically 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th. Sometimes, courts, prosecutors, and government offices have heavy caseloads but not enough resources to deal with them all. This might lead a prosecutor to drop criminal charges the defendant. In other cases, a criminal defendant might have information that can help law enforcement pursue bigger criminal cases. If the defendant is willing to help, they might be offered a deal that involves dropping their criminal charges.

Criminal Charges That Are Dismissed

Criminal charges are usually dismissed for the very same reasons they are dropped, and lack of evidence is still the most common. The main different between dropped criminal charges and dismissed criminal charges is where they occur in the timeline of the judicial process. Dismissed charges generally don’t take place until later on, after the judge or prosecutor realizes they don’t have what they need to prove that the defendant is guilty of the alleged crimes. Oppositely, charges can be dropped before anything is even filed with the court.

Further distinctive of dropped charges, dismissed charges can be ordered by the judge rather than the prosecution. If the judge feels that there are holes in the case, they might override the process and dismiss the charges themselves.

Pros and Cons

Although hypothetical, if you could choose, you would want your charges to be dismissed. When charges are dropped against a defendant, prosecution still has the opportunity to reinstate their criminal charges later on. This might happen if they gather more sufficient evidence against you, allowing them to build a stronger case that proves you are guilty of the alleged crimes. When charges are dismissed, they typically stay dismissed for good.

Are you ready to fight your current criminal charges in Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm will get you the best possible outcome to your criminal case!

How to Reduce Your Indianapolis Criminal Charges

Posted on August 11, 2022 by admin

Ultimately, your number one goal after being arrested is to evade criminal charges. After criminal charges ensue, it is only natural to turn your focus on dismissing or reducing them. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help increase the chances of this happening.

Continue below to learn how to reduce your Indianapolis, Marion County criminal charges, including which criminal defense law firm is a top-choice for aggressive and skilled representation.

Best Criminal Defense Attorney Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514 — Criminal Defense Attorney Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

Dismissal of Criminal Charges is Not Common

Although prosecution has the choice to drop your criminal charges either before or after they’ve been filed with the court, it is usually an unlikely outcome. Criminal charges are only dropped under specific circumstances, mostly as a result of insufficient evidence, but also due to factors like fourth amendment violations, which is when evidence is illegally obtained, like in the case of an illegally executed search warrant, as well as procedural issues, and resource issues. In some cases, prosecution may decide to tropical charges against the defendant. If they are willing to cooperate with law enforcement as an informant against another defendant or case.

Reducing Criminal Charges is a Strong Possibility

Compared to dismissal of criminal charges, reducing criminal charges is very possible. However, in order to have your criminal charges reduced, it is important to start out with the right representation. Although public defenders do society a service, it is not recommended to choose free legal representation when facing criminal charges. Public defenders have very high caseloads and cannot spend enough time working on each case with specific intent.

A private Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer can put their focus on your case and do everything it takes to lessen your criminal charges and therefore protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. Basically, if you want to avoid jail, hefty fines, and loads of community service, you need to hire a private criminal defense attorney. Without specialized and experienced criminal defense representation, it is very unlikely that the prosecutor will budge on your criminal charges.

Additional Factors to Consider When You Want to Reduce Your Criminal Charges

A plea bargain, or plea deal, is the key that will unlock your opportunity to reduce your criminal charges in Indianapolis. In order to be offered a reasonable plea deal, you will need seasoned criminal defense representation. A private criminal attorney can build you a strong and impactful defense against your charges, and ultimately convince the prosecutor to be more lenient. Not only can you jail time, but you can also avoid excessive hours of community service, rehabilitation programs, home detention, thousands of dollars in fines, and much more.

The lesser your criminal charges, the more promising your future. It is important to avoid jail time, especially if you have children or people who depend on you. Spending time in jail can put your job in jeopardy, plus create all sorts of social and domestic obstacles. It is in your best interest to have your criminal charges significantly reduced so that you can maintain the best possible quality of life for you and your loved ones.

Money Should Not Be a Concern

Many people choose to forgo private legal representation due to money or budgeting problems, but there is no price for freedom and peace of mind. Invest in yourself and your loved ones by paying out of pocket for private criminal defense in Indianapolis. A reputable criminal defense law firm will work with you on payment plans so that you can enjoy your freedom without going into debt or making any financial sacrifices.

Are you looking for a trusted criminal defense law firm in Indiana who can help you reduce or dismiss your criminal charges? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can meet over the phone, via online video conference, or in person at our office.

Why Choose Our Criminal Defense Law Firm in Indianapolis

Posted on August 8, 2022 by admin

The Law Office of David E. Lewis is your top resource for superior criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. When you are looking for a skilled and aggressive crime lawyer, Attorney David E. Lewis and his esteemed legal staff are the team to have in your corner. Our Indianapolis Indiana criminal defense law firm will build you a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges, giving you the best possible outcome in court. Avoid harsh penalties and jail time by calling the Law Office of David E. Lewis today for your free consultation.

Continue below to learn why so many Hoosiers choose us to beat or significantly reduce their criminal charges throughout Central Indiana, plus how to get started on your defense as soon as today.

Indianapolis Criminal Law Firm 317-636-7514

The Law Office of David E. Lewis

Indianapolis Criminal Defense That Works

Here at the Law Office of David E. Lewis, you can expect to be treated with the utmost care and respect. We see you as the person you are, not the person. The courts are accusing you of being. Regardless of your crime or criminal charges, we are here to obtain a better legal outcome for you. We will work around the clock to build you a strong and impactful defense to significantly reduce or even dismiss your criminal charges entirely. Trust us to work on your case as if it were our own matters at stake.

Criminal Matters are Complex

Our Indianapolis defense attorneys know that your criminal matters are confusing to you and that you may not know which steps to take after being arrested or indicted on criminal charges in Indiana. 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. Trust our legal professionals to develop a strong defense for your case and work around the clock to place you in the best position possible following an arrest, charge, or conviction.

From start to finish, our criminal defense attorneys take your legal matters seriously. You can count on us to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms at all costs. We have full knowledge of criminal law on both state and federal levels, plus retain years of experience serving Hoosiers just like yourself. Our case results are prima facie evidence that our law firm is the right choice for your criminal charges in Indiana.

Are you ready to schedule your free, no risk consultation with seasoned attorney who actually cares about the quality of your life? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm will get you the best possible outcome to your criminal case!

How to Move Forward From a Criminal Past With Expungement

Posted on March 4, 2022 by admin

Are you being held back from a happier or more successful life because of your past criminal records? Indiana’s Second Chance Law may be able to help you move forward from your criminal past and regain control over your future. Continue below to learn what you need to know about Indiana’s criminal expungement and record sealing laws, including how to learn your eligibility.

Indiana Criminal Record Expungement Law Firm 317-636-7514

Restore Your Civil Rights and Brighten Your Future

The new Indiana Second Chance laws are very accommodating to past offenders and those who have been wrongful arrested or falsely accused. If you are being held back from a better job, better housing, better relationships, or even gun privileges, it is in your best interest to learn more about criminal record expungement.

If you qualify, you could have your criminal record sealed and hidden from public view; this includes current and potential employers, banks, college admissions offices, professional licensing offices, and even potential romantic interests! Just think of all the opportunities that will open up for you if you could only seal or hide your criminal past.

Qualifying for Expungement

Unfortunately, not everyone will qualify to have their records expunged. There are several stipulations, restrictions, and prerequisites that mandate whether or not a person can even qualify to expunge their criminal records. In order to qualify for expungement, your petition must demonstrate certain criteria.

Along with prerequisites and stipulations, there are also restrictions. For example, a person may only file a petition to have their criminal histories expunged one time and one time only. If they make one filing error or mistake, they lose their chance to expunge their criminal records.

With so many variables and risks at play, determining your eligibility for criminal expungement in Indiana can be a complex process. To find out if you qualify to have your past arrest records, misdemeanors, or felonies restricted from your personal record, you must consult with a licensed criminal defense lawyer in Indiana. Be sure to choose an attorney who is well-versed in the Indiana expungement and record sealing laws.

Are you ready to petition for criminal record expungement or record sealing this year? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free case evaluation with a licensed criminal record expungement lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Criminal Attorney David E Lewis Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

How to Find Good Indianapolis Criminal Defense Attorney

Posted on December 7, 2021 by admin

The most important job you have as a person who is facing criminal charges in Indiana is to hire a good defense lawyer to represent your case. The right attorney will make all the difference when it comes to your criminal case outcome. If you want any chance at avoiding the maximum penalties for your charges, you must hire a private criminal lawyer. Not sure how to choose among all the local law firms?

Continue reading to learn how to find a good Indianapolis criminal defense attorney you can trust and afford.

Criminal Attorneys Indianapolis IN 317-636-7514

Not All Criminal Law Offices are Alike

When you begin your search for Indianapolis criminal law offices, you will find that there are plenty of options to choose from. But beware that not all criminal law offices are alike. It is important to find a criminal defense attorney who has the accolades and achievements that support their ability to obtain the best possible criminal case outcome. When narrowing down your search, look for law firms or lawyers who have experience, community establishment, client testimonials and case results, and much more.

This workload may feel overwhelming to you, so as a start, focus on these top considerations when searching for Indianapolis, defense attorneys:

Experience

Experience means all the difference in the industry of law. Not only is criminal law extremely complex, but it is ever-evolving. This includes the various members of magistrate, courtroom officials, jail staff, and more. For this reason, an experienced criminal defense lawyer will be more capable of rendering better case results, such as dismissal of jail time or sentence reductions, compared to a lawyer who has just started out.

A reputable and trusted Indianapolis criminal defense law firm will have at least 10 years of experience. In addition to experience, you want to also identify community establishment. You do not want to hire a lawyer who has relocated offices multiple times over the course of a few years. This can signify instability.

Client Testimonials and Case Results

After you have confirmed that a law office has the experience you are looking for, your next focus should be their client testimonials and case results. Knowing what previous clients have posted about their experience working with a particular lawyer can tell you a lot. Knowing the outcome of the cases they’ve represented before can tell you even more. Keep in mind that case results do not need to be extravagant to prove a lawyer’s skill. Case results should show improvement, not pardons and dismissals.

Attorney Pricing and Payment Arrangements

Private criminal defense attorneys are not free, nor do they all charge the same. But that does not mean you have to overpay for criminal defense. When performing your search for criminal defense law firms in Indianapolis, place attorney pricing at the top of your priority list. You must be fully-informed of a lawyer’s hourly rates, related fees, and any other costs you might incur as their client. Furthermore, it is important to discuss payment plans and arrangements in full transparency. If a lawyer seems like they do not want to talk much about pricing, it may be a sign that they charge too much or use unethical business practices.

Would you like to skip the stressful task of looking for the right crime lawyer for your case and go straight to a trusted professional in Indy? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for skilled criminal defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can hold meetings over the phone, via online conferencing, or in person at her Indianapolis office.

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

Top Indiana Criminal Law Facts Everyone Wants to Know

Posted on August 6, 2021 by admin

As a leading criminal defense law firm in Indiana that has been practicing for nearly 3 decades, we have heard almost every question in the book. But when it comes to the most frequently asked questions about criminal law and defense, there are a handful that certainly top the list. Continue reading to learn the top criminal law facts that everybody wants to know, and how to get protect yourself from the maximum penalties for your pending criminal charges.

Indianapolis Indiana Criminal Defense 317-636-7514

Indiana Criminal Law and Criminal Defense Facts

Whether you are somebody who lives in Indiana or simply passing through, it is important that you know these criminal law and criminal defense facts:

Law Enforcement Searches

Everyone wants to know the legalities surrounding law enforcement searches. The truth is, if law enforcement wants to search your house or car, you reserve the right to say no. However, if police have a valid search warrant for your house or other property, then you cannot decline. If this happens to you immediately contact in Indiana criminal defense lawyer for guidance.

Field Sobriety Testing

If a person is pulled over because they are suspected of driving under the influence of either alcohol, controlled substances, or drugs, the driver has the right to refuse a breathalyzer and field sobriety test. However, under Indiana law, if you do refuse either of these tests, your driver’s license is immediately suspended for six months. When signing your registration, you automatically agree to these terms. You will also face additional penalties if ultimately convicted of a DUI.

Suspended Licenses

Here in Indiana, is illegal to operate a motor vehicle driver’s license is suspended or revoked. If you are caught driving with a suspended or revoked license, not only will you be required to pay hefty fines, but you will also lose your driving privileges for an extended period of time.

Rights to Attorney Requests

When you are arrested in Indiana, you have the right to request to consult with an attorney before answering any questions asked by law enforcement or investigators. In fact, it is strongly encouraged to always speak with a criminal defense lawyer before agreeing to be interviewed by law enforcement. This entitlement has to do with your Miranda Rights.

Criminal Records

Many people assume that a criminal record is permanent, but not all criminal arrests, charges, and convictions have to be. Speak with a skilled and experienced Indianapolis crime lawyer who is well-versed in Indiana’s Second Law to learn your eligibility for criminal record expungement.

Juvenile Defense

Although contrary to common belief, juveniles can be tried as adults, and therefore be penalized like one. It is important to retain the services of a private criminal defense lawyer to avoid the situation, and to protect your child from being sentenced to the maximum penalties for their criminal charges.

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

You Should Also Read:

Can a Security Guard Arrest Me?
Your Guide to Appealing an Indiana Criminal Conviction
FAQS About DUI Checkpoints

I Was Arrested So What Happens Now?

Posted on July 20, 2021 by admin

Being arrested, or even experiencing the arrest of another person, can be a traumatizing event. Upon an arrest, it is common to feel an influx of anxiety, concern, fear, and various other emotions. But more often, people under arrest, or have just arrived home after being bailed out of jail, or simply filled with questions. Continue reading to learn what you can expect from the Indiana criminal justice process following your arrest, and who you need to call for aggressive criminal defense that can reduce or dismiss your Indiana criminal charges.

Criminal Defense and Appeals Indianapolis IN 317-636-7514

The Basic Stages of a Criminal Case

Although it may differ from state to state, here in Indiana, all criminal cases start with the arrest, whether that be a physical arrest, an indictment, or an arrest warrant. Following an arrest, the preceding stages are bail, arraignment, preliminary hearing, pretrial motion, trial, sentencing hearing, and if applicable, an appeal.

Bail

A person is arrested, they are eventually given the opportunity to post their bail. To do this, you would contact a local bail bondsman and follow their instructions. There is a nonrefundable fee for a bail bond, and you will be required to sign a legally-binding contract that holds you liable for the full bond amount in the case that the defendant fails to appear for their scheduled court date.

If you are turning yourself in for an arrest warrant, meaning you are the one that is to be arrested, you can contact a bail bondsman ahead of time for prearranged bail bond service. This will get you in and out of jail much faster.

If a person is arrested under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they will not be eligible for booking until they’re sober, and they cannot get bailed out of jail until they are booked. Jails usually wait 6 to 8 hours before booking and intoxicated inmate into the system. So, you will need to wait at least six hours before even attempting to bail and intoxicated person out of jail.

Arraignment

The defendant’s first court appearance is called the arraignment. This is simply a court hearing to notify the defendant of their official criminal charges, generally read by the judge, and allow the defendant to plead guilty or not guilty to their charges.

Preliminary Hearing

Depending on whether a defendant is facing state or federal level charges, charges may be brought against them either through a “bill of information” secured through a preliminary hearing, or grand jury indictment. States can use either process, while the federal government uses grand jury indictments. Basically, a preliminary hearing (or in a federal case, grand jury) is held to establish that enough probable cause exists to pursue criminal charges against the defendant. During this hearing, both sides question witnesses, present evidence, and make their arguments. Preliminary hearings are also called preliminary examinations. In the case of grand jury, only the prosecutor is heard.

Pre-Trial Motion

A pretrial motion is held right before the trial. It is intended to give both the prosecution and defense attorneys an opportunity to resolve any lingering issues, and confirm which pieces of evidence will and will not be admissible at trial.

Trial

At the trial, a judge or jury will find a defendant guilty or not guilty. Since the prosecution is the party that holds the burden of having to prove the criminal case, they are responsible for proving beyond a reasonable doubt that is the defendant guilty of the charges being brought against them. During this hearing, you can expect opening and closing statements, cross examinations, witness testimonies, and ultimately a verdict. When mistrials declared, they happen during pretrial motion hearings.

Sentencing

After the trial, the defendant will then attend their sentencing hearing. During this hearing, the judge and jury panel will decide which punishments are appropriate for their particular criminal conviction, and then the judge will officially sentence the defendant to those penalties. Such penalties can include fines, committee service, jail time, and more.

Appeal

In the case that a defendant believes they were wrongly accused or convicted, they can choose to file an appeal and applet court. This means that their criminal case will be reviewed by a higher court, one that may decide to reduce or reverse their conviction if they find any errors or unconstitutional elements that took place in the case.

Are you looking for a qualified and skilled criminal defense lawyer who will fight your criminal charges and keep you out of jail? Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation with a seasoned Indianapolis Indiana criminal lawyer who will build you a strong and impactful defense.

You Might Also Enjoy:

What is Going to Happen at My Pre-Trial?
What are My Rights at Trial?
Proper Conduct for a Trial Witness

How to Determine if You Need to Hire a Criminal Attorney or Not

Posted on May 21, 2021 by admin

Were you just arrested for an offense in Indiana, but you are not sure whether to hire or lawyer or not for your case? Are you thinking about opting for a public defender instead of hiring a private criminal attorney? If you aren’t sure if your criminal charges warrant the investment of a private lawyer, you are lucky to be in the right place at the right time. Regardless of how major or minor your recent criminal charges are, it is always recommended to hire a criminal defense lawyer to represent your case.

Continue below to learn why, and how to get started on building a strong and impactful defense against your Indiana criminal charges soon.

Indianapolis IN Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Private Criminal Defense is Always the Best Option

The types of crimes a person can be charged with is seemingly endless, ranging from minor infractions like traffic tickets and citations, to major crimes like capital offenses. The penalties for these crimes vary in nature as well, and depend on a long list of factors. And the consequences for committing a crime can range from a minor fine to the death sentence.

But regardless of the scope and severity of a defendant’s charges, it is important to take them very seriously. Not only can a guilty plea hand down various penalties, but it can also spoil a person’s reputation and have life-long adverse effects on the quality of their life. For this reason and more, it is vital to hire an experienced criminal attorney if you are currently facing criminal charges. They have the knowledge and resources to build a strong and impactful defense to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. They can help you pursue the best possible outcome to your case.

What a Criminal Attorney Will Do for You

Even for minor offenses, like traffic tickets, a criminal attorney can help you avoid the maximum fines and penalties associated with your infraction. They might even be able to fight the allegations and dismiss your case, such as a speeding ticket, or even prevent your drivers’ license from being suspended. They know how to find the facts and properly investigate allegations in order to fight your criminal charges. Reducing minor infractions is always wise because it can also protect you against increase insurance rates and more.

If your criminal charges are more serious, it is even more critical to your freedom and your future to retain professional legal counsel. Private legal counselors, unlike public defenders, have the time and the resources to dive into your case and put in the effort and focus it needs to have a successful outcome.

With private criminal defense, you are in better hands than none at all. It can mean the difference between extended jail time and no jail time. It can also increase the chances of reducing Level 6 Felonies to Class A or B misdemeanors. It all depends on who you choose to represent your case. Experience and testimonials are the greatest indications of quality and trust.

Were you convicted of misdemeanor or felony weapons crime? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 for the best chance at reducing or dismissing your Indianapolis IN criminal charges. Consults are free!

You Might Also Read:

4 Reasons to Fire Your Lawyer and Hire a New One
Should I Waive My Right to a Lawyer if I Know I’ll Be Found Guilty?
What Can a Criminal Lawyer Do That a Public Defender Can’t?

Can I Change Criminal Defense Lawyers?

Posted on March 24, 2021 by admin

Before notifying your lawyer that you are dropping them from your case, there are some things you should do first. Continue below to learn which steps to take when you are ready to change criminal defense lawyers, as well as how to determine that you have hired the right attorney for your criminal case.

Changing Lawyers in a Criminal Defense Case

Start by reviewing your contract or retainer agreement to see if there are notes addressing the steps to take to terminate the lawyer-client relationship. Keep in mind that your new attorney may want a copy for themselves. Also, look for new lawyers before you officially terminate ties with your current lawyer. This can help make the transition process more efficient.

Once you find a new lawyer, you are ready to fire your current one. You can do this by sending a certified or registered letter that plainly states you are ending the lawyer-client relationship, and that your lawyer is to stop working on any pending matters immediately. Avoid going into detail, and keep the message clear and to the point.

Be sure to request all of your files in the letter as well. Or if you prefer, instruct that they cooperate with your new lawyer in transferring all files over. If you have paid your lawyer any fees in advance for work that has not yet been done, you should also ask for a refund. You will also need to request an itemized invoice of any pending fees or payments.

How to Find a Good Criminal Attorney

One of the most important qualities to look for in a criminal defense lawyer is experience. Experience speaks to their level of knowledge in the field of criminal law, as well as their dedication to their practice. Also, a crime lawyer’s reputation is important to consider because you want to know how they treat their clients.

Reading testimonials and reviews from past clients is a great way to grasp an attorney’s character and performance. Furthermore, you need a criminal defense attorney that knows what they are talking about, and is well-versed in your state’s laws surrounding crime. A knowledgeable criminal lawyer has the intellect to build a strong defense on your behalf.

Are you facing criminal charges and wish to reduce or dismiss them in Indiana? Contact David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation with an aggressive Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer who cares about your rights and your freedoms.

You Might Also Like:

How to Meet With Your Criminal Lawyer for the First Time
4 Reasons to Fire Your Lawyer and Hire a New One
How to Change Criminal Defense Lawyers Midstream