The concept of “due process” has been in the news a lot recently. While it’s addressed in both the Fifth Amendment and Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, a lot of people don’t know exactly what it means for them if they’re arrested. The Fourteenth...
Criminal Defense
What is a public defender, and should defendants use one?
Individuals accused of breaking the law have certain rights. Police officers generally advise people of their right to remain silent and their right to an attorney before questioning them after an arrest. In cases where people might struggle to afford private legal...
Beyond alcohol: What substances can lead to a DUI in Indiana
You pop an allergy pill before your morning commute, thinking nothing of this routine decision. Yet this common medication could put you at risk for a DUI charge on Indiana roads. Police officers now look beyond alcohol to spot drivers under the influence of both...
How might a DUI affect my car insurance rates?
Every driver pays a different amount for their insurance coverage. Some people pay far more than others because they have a very expensive imported vehicle or live in a neighborhood where vehicle theft is relatively common. Others may pay substantially less because...
Understanding the roadside test for drugs in Indiana
Although drugged driving is just as dangerous as drunk driving, it’s harder for law enforcement officers to determine whether someone has drugs in their system when they stop a driver than if they’ve been drinking alcohol. There’s currently no breath test for drugs as...
4 key factors in a drug possession case
Indiana punishes people who are caught possessing illegal substances. A defendant can expect to face severe criminal charges, including incarceration and fines. A drug possession charge can also affect a defendant’s ability to find housing, employment and education. ...
What to look for in a criminal defense attorney
Facing any kind of criminal charge is a serious matter. A conviction for a serious offense can result in significant jail time. Even convictions for relatively minor offenses, such as driving infractions, can result in license suspension and other complications. One...
Why would an innocent person plead the Fifth?
There are certain constitutional rights that should not be overlooked in criminal cases, and one of these is the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. Often, pleading the Fifth is portrayed by the media, law enforcement and the prosecution as an indication of guilt....
Indiana’s overdose immunity law features many restrictions
In recent years, more states have enacted laws that provide immunity for drug possession offenses for those who seek emergency help for someone who appears to be suffering an overdose. In some states, this immunity extends to the person suffering the overdose whether...
4 mistakes that could negatively affect your criminal defense case
Getting charged with a criminal offense can be a challenging experience, as it has the potential to wholly transform the rest of your life. It is, therefore, important to be prepared and well-informed as to what you should and shouldn’t do as your case evolves. Once...