Indiana Criminal Defense Lawyer
When someone charges you with a crime, you need the assistance of a top-quality criminal defense attorney. If you’re facing criminal charges, count on Stein Law.
You should always take criminal charges seriously, as they can have life-altering consequences for you and your loved ones. If you’re seeking the most favorable outcome for your case, you need high-quality legal representation.
The Indiana criminal defense attorneys at Stein Law are ready to hear your story.
When You Need a Strong Defense, Count on Stein Law
Facing criminal charges can bring about strong feelings of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. You likely have many questions and concerns and may be unsure of where to turn. When you need legal guidance, count on Stein Law.
Our firm is a strong team of attorneys and support staff ready to assist you during a trying time. We have what it takes to take on your case and work diligently toward a favorable outcome.
Choosing to go it alone can have negative consequences. Put yourself in the best possible position with a strong legal team at your side.
Types of Cases Our Firm Handles
Stein Law has extensive experience handling even the most complex cases. The following are just a few of the types of criminal defense cases we take on:
Criminal drug charges stem from the production, possession, and distribution of drugs.
Drug Possession
Under Indiana law, possession of a controlled substance without a prescription can result in criminal charges.
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration “[d]rugs, substances, and certain chemicals used to make drugs are classified into five distinct categories or schedules depending upon the drug’s acceptable medical use and the drug’s abuse or dependency potential.”
Drug Enforcement Administration Schedules
- Schedule I: High potential for abuse and no accepted medical use — includes heroin and LSD
- Schedule II: High potential for abuse and could result in permanent psychological and physical dependence — includes OxyContin and cocaine
- Schedule III: Moderate to low potential for dependence — includes ketamine and anabolic steroids
- Schedule IV: Low potential for abuse or dependence — includes Xanax and Valium
- Schedule V: Lowest potential for abuse — typically used for analgesic or antidiarrheal purposes
Drug possession can either be actual possession or constructive possession. Actual possession entails having direct physical access and control over the substance. To prove constructive possession, the defendant might not have had actual possession but must have the ability to possess the substance.
Charges may relate to mere drug possession, but they could also relate to possession with intent to distribute.
Under Indiana law, penalties for drug possession depend on certain details, like the type of drug, the amount, and the schedule the drug falls under.
Drug Dealing
Drug dealing entails knowingly and intentionally delivering or financially facilitating the delivery of a controlled substance or possession with the intent to distribute.
Like drug possession, penalties for drug dealing depend on the type of drug, the amount of the drug, and the schedule of the drug.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Drug paraphernalia charges have to do with knowingly and intentionally possessing devices or instruments used to introduce drugs into the body, test the strength of a drug, or enhance the effects of a drug.
Examples of drug paraphernalia include:
- Pipes
- Bongs
- Needles
- Baggies
- Scales
Prosecutors may file drug paraphernalia charges alone or in addition to another charge.
Navigate This Page
When You Need a Strong Defense, Count on Stein Law
Types of Cases Our Firm Handles
Creating a Feasible Defense Strategy
Do you need a criminal defense lawyer?
What makes a quality criminal defense attorney?
When to Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Consult with a New Albany Criminal Defense Lawyer at Stein Law
Our Offices
Floyd County Office
Downtown New Albany
812-948-6000
810 E. Market St.
New Albany, IN 47150
Clark County Office
Bolt & Tie Building
812-948-6002
1400 Main St. Suite 154
Clarksville, IN 47129
FAQ’s
Content Reviewed by:
Amy Stein
Attorney
Testimonials
Indiana laws prohibit operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI). Some states refer to this as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI). While DUI and OWI and used interchangeably, there are some differences between the two. An OWI involves driving a car while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
According to Title 9 of the Indiana General Assembly, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher is over the legal limit.
Penalties for OWI charges depend on many factors, including the BAC, the driver’s age, and any prior charges or convictions. They can include license suspension, fines, and jail time.
Driving Without a License
To drive a vehicle in Indiana, you must have a valid driver’s license. If law enforcement catches anyone driving without a license or with a suspended license, the person faces penalties, including citations, fines, and possible jail time.
Traffic Violations
A traffic violation occurs when a driver violates a law meant to regulate vehicles and roads.
Traffic violations in Indiana include:
- Driving without insurance
- Driving without registration
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Speeding
Traffic violations can result in hefty fines or points on a driver’s license. Once a license has enough points, the government can suspend or revoke it.
Domestic Violence
Domestic violence involves crimes or acts that include:
- Threats or intimidation
- Physical assault
- Sexual assault
- Battery
Usually, acts of domestic violence are committed against spouses or partners, children, parents, and other members of a household. They often result in restraining orders and criminal charges. Perpetrators can face fines and prison time.
Shoplifting
In Indiana, shoplifting can entail theft or conversion. Under Indiana law, theft and conversion are defined as knowingly or intentionally exerting control over another’s property. The difference between the two charges is that theft includes the shoplifter’s intent to deprive the owner of the item’s use or value.
Penalties for shoplifting usually depend on the value of the shoplifted items. They can include fines and jail.
Expungements
An Indiana criminal defense lawyer can help you pursue an expungement.
According to the American Bar Association, “in law, ‘expungement’ is the process by which a record of criminal conviction is destroyed or sealed from state or federal record.”
Some records may be eligible for expungement, including:
- Arrests
- Criminal charges
- Convictions
To expunge a record, an individual must file a petition with the court.
Creating a Feasible Defense Strategy
Criminal defense attorneys have many important tasks, but one of the most critical is creating a legal strategy with a defense for your criminal charges.
There are various defenses to criminal charges, depending on the type of crime and the details of your situation. The most common types of criminal defenses include:
- Unlawful search and seizure
- Chain of custody issues
- Entrapment
- Illegal stops
- Lack of intent
- Duress
Your Indiana criminal defense lawyer will thoroughly review the details of your case to develop the best possible defense strategy.
Do you need an Indiana criminal defense lawyer?
You are within your legal rights to represent yourself when charged with a crime. However, representing yourself is unwise.
A New Albany criminal defense lawyer is well-versed in the laws and procedures pertaining to your case. Enlisting the help of a qualified criminal defense attorney with trial experience increases the likelihood that your charges will be reduced or dropped altogether.
What makes a quality Indiana criminal defense attorney?
When you’re looking for an Indiana criminal defense lawyer, we know the options are plentiful. However, the following qualities are characteristic of the most exceptional lawyers.
Knowledge and Experience
First and foremost, you need a criminal defense attorney with knowledge and experience.
It’s not only knowledge of the law but also knowing the right people that makes a quality defense lawyer. A lawyer should know and have good relationships with local prosecutors and judges.
Hiring an experienced Indiana criminal defense attorney is particularly beneficial for you and your case.
A Favorable Reputation
A sterling reputation is always a good sign. A great criminal defense lawyer should be highly regarded in the community. Additionally, they’ll have established a good rapport with their previous clients.
Good Communication
Communication is key. Throughout your case, you’ll have questions or concerns, or you’ll need updates on the status of your case. Your criminal defense lawyer should be happy and willing to communicate with you regularly.
Accessibility
Criminal defense lawyers are busy, but your attorney should never be so busy that they don’t have time to answer your call or respond to your email.
A good criminal defense lawyer is accessible to you when you need them most.
Friendly, Supportive Staff
A lawyer can only do so much by themselves — that’s where their staff comes in.
Your criminal defense attorney should have kind and caring staff willing to support you whenever you need them.
When to Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer
Ideally, you should contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. When you consult with a lawyer right away, you give them time to fully review the details of your situation and develop a legal strategy. They also can help determine if the prosecution is within the statute of limitations.
Time is important when it comes to criminal charges. Give yourself the best chance at a successful outcome, and don’t hesitate to contact a New Albany criminal defense lawyer right away.
Consult with a New Albany Criminal Defense Lawyer at Stein Law
The attorneys at Stein Law have more than 75 years of combined experience helping Indiana clients fight criminal charges. We understand the stress a criminal charge can bring. That’s why we’re ready to fight for your rights and deliver a favorable outcome.
When you’re charged with a crime, you don’t have to go at it alone. Stein Law is ready to assist you.
to schedule a meeting with a criminal attorney today.
