Felonies & Misdemeanors Lawyer in Chesterton, IN
Experienced Trial Attorney in Lake County & Porter County
Criminal offenses are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. When facing criminal charges, it is important to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney. The Law Office of Adam Tavitas represents clients charged with felonies and misdemeanors in Northwest Indiana. Call us today and schedule a free consultation to get started building your case.
Call (219) 245-2655 or contact us online for a criminal defense lawyer who is always available to assist you.
Misdemeanors in Indiana
Misdemeanors are less serious than felony charges, but a conviction will have an impact on your life. Some examples of misdemeanors include first time DUI/OWI offenses, disorderly conduct, battery, public intoxication, resisting arrest, theft, and minor possession of a small amount of marijuana.
The possible jail sentence depends on the classification of misdemeanors, such as:
- Class A – Up to one year in jail
- Class B – Up to 180 days in jail
- Class C – Up to 60 days in jail
Additional penalties may be imposed by the court, such as up to a year of probation, fines, court costs, restitution, and community service. In addition to penalties imposed by the court, you will have a criminal record that will follow you after you have served your time and paid your fines.
What are Felonies in Indiana
Felonies include certain OWI offenses, drug charges, sex offenses, gun offenses, and other serious charges. In certain situations, misdemeanors may be elevated to felonies. For example, battery charges may be enhanced to a felony when a deadly weapon was used, serious injuries were inflicted on the victim, or the victim was a police officer.
The felony levels in Indiana include:
- Murder- 45-65 years in prison
- Level 1 – 20-40 years in prison
- Level 2 – 10-30 years
- Level 3 – 3-16 years
- Level 4 – 2-12 years
- Level 5 – 1-6 years
- Level 6 – 6 months – 2.5 years
In addition to time in prison, a defendant may be ordered to complete other requirements, depending on the offense and other factors. This may include a requirement for drug or alcohol counseling, fines, court costs, restitution, probation, or community service. In more than 20 years as a criminal defense attorney, I have represented clients facing a broad range of felonies and misdemeanors in Northwest Indiana.
If you have been arrested, call (219) 245-2655 to discuss your situation. I have a convenient office in Chesterton, have meetings by appointment in Highland, and can travel to clients far away.