Accessible, Experienced And Aggressive Defense For The Most Serious Of Charges

Violent offenses and murder are among the most thoroughly investigated and prosecuted crimes in the state. Law enforcement, prosecutors and the courts take these crimes very seriously due to their basis of aggression against individuals and property. These crimes, especially murder, are often extremely complicated, based on large amounts of evidence such as witness statements, cellphone records and DNA evidence. They are also heavily punished felonies carrying years of prison time, fines, lengthy restrictive probation periods and more.

Every violent crime is different with its own set of circumstances, yet every serious offense calls for a criminal defense attorney who is experienced, is trial tested and has the dedication to put 100% of their effort into your legal strategy. The team at The Region Lawyers brings more than a decade of defense practice in both state and federal courts to your case. Our Gary violent offenses and murder lawyers will exhaustively review and analyze all the factors of your arrest to determine the best strategy to use in advancing your best interests at every phase of the criminal justice process. They will vigorously protect your rights and work to see that you are not overcharged or subject to dubious law enforcement or prosecutorial methods throughout.

Accused of a crime of violence? Discuss the details of your case in a free consultation. Call The Region Lawyers at 219-961-3814 or send us your contact information online.

Violent Crimes In Indiana

Common violent crimes for which you will face serious criminal charges include:

• Assault
• Battery
• Voluntary and involuntary manslaughter
• Murder
• Armed robbery
• Felony rape
• Arson
• Kidnapping
• Carjacking
• Gang crimes

Any of these offenses may be aggravated and will thus lead to higher-level felony charges and increased sentencing when the circumstances include the use of a gun, the commission of the crime against a minor, and/or prior criminal convictions.

Assault And Battery Crimes

Assault in Indiana is considered to be an attempt or threat of battery against another. This offense is covered under laws that are not labeled as “assault” but that protect against intimidation or threat and criminal recklessness. Threat/intimidation is generally charged as a misdemeanor when it involves the intention to cause the alleged victim to do something against their will, put the alleged victim in fear of retaliation or force the alleged victim to evacuate a building or vehicle. It is generally charged as a Class A misdemeanor carrying up to a year in jail and fines of up to $5,000. Criminal recklessness is generally charged as a Class B misdemeanor carrying up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If a deadly weapon was used, then it will lead to felony charges.

Battery consists of knowingly touching someone in a way that is rude, angry or insolent. Generally, it is charged as a Class B misdemeanor that is punishable by up to 180 days of incarceration and fines of up to $1,000. Battery may also be elevated to a Class A misdemeanor or a felony charge in more serious circumstances. These include crimes that caused bodily injury; that were committed against a minor under the age of 14, a police officer or another public servant; or that involved a deadly weapon.

Murder And Manslaughter

In Indiana, only one statute exists that defines and punishes murder. It defines murder as the intentional killing of another person, the killing of someone while committing or trying to commit another serious felony, or the intentional killing of an unborn baby. It is punishable by the death penalty, life in prison without parole, or 45 to 65 years of prison time with fines of up to $10,000. A Merrillville murder defense attorney can help you learn more about the penalties for murder and potential defenses.

Voluntary manslaughter occurs when an intentional killing takes place but was committed without prior intent. These crimes are often referred to as “heat of the moment” offenses. They result in felony charges punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Involuntary manslaughter generally occurs by accident or when an individual is killed during the commission of another crime. It is a felony that carries one to six years of prison time and up to $10,000 in fines.

How Do You Create A Defense For A Violent Crime?

Just because you’ve been accused of a violent offense and have had criminal charges pressed against you doesn’t mean you’ll suffer the consequences. Preparing a strong legal defense could make it possible to avoid being convicted of the crime you’re accused of and its penalties. 

There are several potential arguments that a Merrillville criminal defense lawyer can build a defense around, such as the following:

• You acted in self-defense.
• You were suffering a mental health crisis at the time of the alleged offense and were not in control of your actions.
• You have an alibi for the time of the alleged offense.
• You have been mistaken for someone else.
• You committed the alleged crime by accident.

A successful legal defense is the key to freedom when you’re facing serious criminal charges.

What To Expect During The Legal Process For A Felony Case

The criminal process for violent crimes in Indiana is as follows:

1. The defendant (the suspected criminal) is arrested.
2. The defendant attends an arraignment where their charges are read and bail is set.
3. The prosecution and defense gather and trade information in a process called discovery.
4. The defense has the opportunity to file pretrial motions regarding evidence, bail and more.
5. The prosecution and defense teams meet to discuss pretrial matters.
6. The defendant may also be offered a plea deal before the trial happens.
7. The trial takes place, and a verdict is reached.
8. The defendant is either free to go or sentenced for the crime.

If found guilty, the defendant will have the opportunity to appeal the decision later.

Get Highly Qualified Legal Help From The Region Lawyers

Our criminal defense lawyers are highly qualified to defend you when you’re facing any allegations of a violent crime. They recommend that you retain their services as soon as you suspect that you are under investigation. These are charges that have potentially life-changing consequences that can destroy your reputation, your family, your career and your liberty. You will need to fight back with an aggressive and effective defense. You can count on the dedication and tenacity that you will find at The Region Lawyers in pursuing the best outcome possible for your case.

Connect with us online or by calling 219-961-3814 today. From our Merrillville office, our team works with clients across Gary and The Region as well as throughout Indiana and northern Illinois.