Tag Archives: criminal defense

How to Meet With Your Criminal Lawyer for the First Time

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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
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Frequently Asked Questions About Reporting for Jury Duty

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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!

Why Choose David E. Lewis for Indiana Criminal Defense

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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!

The Pros and Cons of a No Contest Plea

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A no contest plea is also known as nolo contendere, which translates loosely to, “I do not wish to contend.” When a defendant uses the no contest plea, they are not admitting fault, but they are also not disputing the charges either. Although this type of plea is an alternative to guilty or not guilty, courts will still convict and sentence someone following this plea. When it comes to no contest pleas, there are several advantages and disadvantages involved. For this reason, it is wise to educate yourself on the terms of a no contest plea before making one.

Continue reading to learn the pros and cons of a no contest plea to make the best decision for yourself prior to trial.

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

Pros of a No Contest Plea

Not all states allow nolo contendere, so if yours does, you are already at an advantage. Furthermore, most cases of no contest pleas require preliminary permission from the courts; so, if you are permitted to make this type of plea, you are also in luck.

Another major benefit to a no contest plea is civil liability. Once a defendant pleads no contest, they are convicted and sentenced criminally, but their plea cannot be used as evidence of guilt later on if they face civil action by any victims of their crime.

Pleading no contest saves money on attorney fees and court costs since trail time is shortened. The more you must appear for trial, and the longer you fight a charge, the more money you are going to spend. No contest pleas reduce time and cost.

Furthermore, pleading no contest also takes a person out of the spotlight faster if they are in it, such as the case with local celebrities like news reporters, restaurant owners, and CEO’s. No contest pleas shorten the process and can let a person move on.

It is possible to receive a lighter sentence when pleading no contest, as compared to pleading guilty, going to trial, and being convicted. Generally, defendants are given lesser punishment following a no contest plea deal.

Cons of a No Contest Plea

Although there are several advantages of pleading no contest, there are always two sides to a story. No contest pleas can also render unpleasant outcomes. One of the most well-known disadvantages of pleading no contest is the fact that a defendant will be convicted, sentenced, subjected to penalties, and have a permanent criminal record. Additionally, a no contest plea can be used later on as an aggravated factor if the defendant is criminally charged again. Aggravated factors will increase the severity of punishment for a defendant.

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!

Carjacking Charges and Criminal Defense in Indiana

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Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Law Firm 317-636-7514

Carjacking is the crime of stealing another person’s motorized property by means of violence, force, assault, or intimidation, with the intent to deprive them of their property indefinitely. Motorized property includes vehicles, boats, campers, motorcycles, and more. Without threat or force, carjacking is simply grand theft auto. In Indiana, carjacking is a classified as a violent crime and penalized severely. And since the act of carjacking generally involves additional crimes like theft and assault, a person is likely to face multiple charges, making the maximum penalties even more severe. Those convicted face long-term imprisonment, hefty fines, strict court-orders, loss of liberties, and a felony criminal record for life.

Indiana Carjacking Penalties

The carjacking statute was repealed in July of 2014, and is now included under Indiana’s general robbery statute. This means carjacking crimes face the same level of punishment as robbery crimes in Indiana.

Level 5 Felony

The general crime of carjacking is a Level 5 Felony, punishable by up to 6 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and additional court-ordered penalties.

Level 3 Felony

If the crime of carjacking involves a deadly weapon or moderate bodily injury to another person, it is a Level 3 Felony, punishable by up to 16 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and additional court-ordered penalties.

Level 2 Felony

If the crime of carjacking involves serious bodily injury to another person, it is a Level 2 Felony, punishable by up to 16 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and additional court-ordered penalties.

Aggressive Defense for Violent Crime Charges

It is critical to retain aggressive legal representation immediately following a carjacking arrest if you wish to avoid jail time and other harsh consequences. Attorney David E. Lewis has a comprehensive understanding of the Indiana prosecution and criminal process, and how the government evaluates carjacking cases. With this knowledge, he uses the law in his favor to craft impenetrable defenses against violent crime charges, and pursue higher-quality outcomes for his clients. You can feel confident knowing that he is doing everything in his power to conquer your criminal charges and get you the best legal results possible. Call him today at 317-636-7514 to schedule a FREE CASE EVALUATION and secure your constitutional rights.

Indianapolis Violent Crimes Lawyer

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

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

Don’t waste another minute living in fear after being charged with a violent crime in Indiana. Let David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, take on the weight of your legal matters and attain a successful resolution to your case. With The Law Office of David E. Lewis in your corner, you never have to fear for your future, family, or freedom. Because he maintains open communication and never use confusing legal jargon, you are always fully aware of your case proceedings and status. He ensures that you feel like you are safe and secure, and more importantly, a priority. After you speak to David E. Lewis, your fear will subside, and you will gain confidence knowing your case is in the hands of a competent and committed lawyer. Call our office at 317-636-7514 to find your path to salvation and justice.

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law Launches a Brand New Criminal Defense Website!

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Check out our new website that is easy to navigate and full of useful information! Get information regarding all types of criminal charges, as well as, probation violations, warrants, FTA’s, expungement, and much more!

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

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

David E. Lewis is a seasoned criminal defense attorney with more than 25 years of experience practicing criminal law in Indiana. He graduated from Indiana University in 1987 with a degree in Political Science, and was then accepted into Indiana University Law School. While attending law school, David E. Lewis not only worked as a bailiff for Marion County Superior Court III, but also worked in the Marion County Public Defenders’ Office.

Eventually graduating from law school in 1990, Attorney David E. Lewis was ready to hit the ground running! His compassion for those facing criminal charges runs deep, as does his drive to protect their rights and preserve their freedoms. For this reason, he started out working as a Master Commissioner for the Marion County courts, strictly presiding over criminal cases.

Through these years, he was able to gain an extensive amount of knowledge and experience of all sides of the law, making him a strong and effective counselor. From there, he knew he wanted to do more for people in need of compassionate criminal defense. So he began his own criminal defense practice, and over the past two decades, has now helped thousands of Indiana defendants reduce or dismiss their criminal charges. He is an upstanding member of the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, as well as, the Indianapolis Law Club. He works around the clock for his clients to ensure their rights and freedoms are protected, and that they receive the most favorable outcome possible in court for their particular criminal charges.

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

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

Call his office today at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your criminal case and learn which strategies are best for your defense. Or visit his new criminal defense website to learn more about his practice. Trust David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, to keep your best interests in mind when building an impactful defense for your criminal charges.