Northwest Indiana Criminal Defense Lawyer

There are two classifications of criminal offenses in Indiana: felonies and misdemeanors. Generally speaking, misdemeanor offenses are considered to be less serious than felonies, though all criminal charges should be taken very seriously. Even a misdemeanor conviction can come with life-altering consequences.

The Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell handles the defense against criminal charges at all levels. Whether you believe you are facing minor misdemeanor charges or you are accused of a violent felony, it is critical to have the right defense representation as soon as possible. Our law firm can identify all possible ways to defend against your criminal charges and minimize the consequences you face, no matter what the allegations might be.

Who Our Team Defends

The Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell serves a wide range of clients, understanding that every case is personal and each situation carries unique challenges. Our team provides tailored defense strategies to help you address the specific concerns you are facing.

• People New to the Criminal Justice System: You never expected to face criminal accusations, and the speed at which charges could harm your future, relationships, and reputation feels overwhelming.
• Those Who Believe the Facts Are Misunderstood: You feel key details are being distorted or disregarded, and you are frustrated that the current allegations do not reflect the full truth.
• Individuals Thinking About Long-Term Consequences: You are worried about how a criminal conviction might affect your career, education, housing, or other opportunities well beyond the courtroom.
• Clients With a Prior Record Concerned About Harsher Penalties: You are anxious about how a previous case or conviction might lead to more severe outcomes in this current situation.

No matter your circumstances, we aim to help you move through this difficult experience while working to protect your future.

Indiana Felony Offenses and Penalties

The most serious charge in Indiana is murder, which is a capital offense. Below murder charges, felonies are classified as follows, with the following potential imprisonment sentences:

• Level 1 = 20 to 40 years in prison
• Level 2 = 10 to 30 years in prison
• Level 3 = Three to 16 years in prison
• Level 4 = Two to 12 years in prison
• Level 5 = One to six years in prison
• Level 6 = Six months to 2.5 years in prison

Felony convictions can also mean court-ordered fines of up to $10,000. The above sentences can be increased if there are aggravating factors or the defendant is a habitual offender.

Examples of felony offenses in Indiana include aggravated rape (Level 1), voluntary manslaughter (Level 2), aggravated battery causing injury (Level 3), unlawful firearm possession by a violent felon (Level 4), involuntary manslaughter (Level 5), and vehicle theft (Level 6).

Indiana Misdemeanor Offenses and Penalties

Misdemeanors are less severe, as there is no possibility of imprisonment for more than one year. In addition, most misdemeanor convictions involve probation instead of automatic jail time. The possible penalties are still harsh, however, and include:

• Class A = Up to one year in jail and fines up to $5,000
• Class B = Up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000
• Class C = Up to 60 days in jail and fines up to $500

Spending a couple of months in jail can disrupt your life, often causing you to lose your job and other consequences. Fines of a few thousand dollars can ruin your financial situation. Even if you receive probation, the terms can be highly restrictive and can affect your life in many ways.

You want the best possible criminal defense attorney on your side for any type of criminal charge – felony or misdemeanor. Our attorney can work to avoid a conviction whenever possible. If you are convicted, we can fight for minimal penalties, given the circumstances.

What Sets the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell Apart?

Facing a felony or misdemeanor charge calls for a defense built around the specific facts of the case, not a generic response. Our approach centers on a few core commitments:

• Local court knowledge: We concentrate our practice in Northwest Indiana, giving our team direct familiarity with the judges, prosecutors, and procedures in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Starke, Newton, and Jasper counties.
• Individualized case strategy: We take time to fully explain the charges, the potential outcomes, and the available defense options so clients can make informed decisions at every stage.
• Responsive communication: Our team stays available and up to date on each case, so clients never feel left in the dark about what happens next.
• Dual experience in criminal and injury law: Our background in both criminal defense and personal injury law gives us a fuller picture of how a charge or accusation can affect a client’s life beyond the courtroom.

These commitments guide our team through every case, whether it involves a Class C misdemeanor citation or a Level 1 felony charge.

Protect Your Future Today

A felony or misdemeanor charge can reshape a person’s finances, career, and family life for years to come. Indiana’s sentencing structure gives judges real discretion, and the difference between a favorable outcome and a harsh one often comes down to the strength of the defense presented. Our team at the Law Offices of Shane O’Donnell stands ready to review the specifics of your case, explain what you’re facing under current Indiana law, and build a defense strategy suited to your situation. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

FAQs About Felonies and Misdemeanors in Indiana