Dyer Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being arrested can be a frightening and traumatic experience, especially for those who are underage or are innocent of any wrongdoing. No one should have to go through this type of experience alone, so if you were recently arrested for or charged with a crime, please call a Dyer criminal defense lawyer who can explain your legal options and ensure that your interests are protected.

Types of Offenses

Like any other state, Indiana has an extensive criminal code that makes it unlawful to:

• Operate a vehicle while intoxicated;
• Drive recklessly;
• Assault or batter another person;
• Commit an act of domestic violence;
• Drive on a suspended license;
• Possess marijuana;
• Be intoxicated in public; and
• Violate probation.

These offenses all range in severity from misdemeanors to felonies and so are punishable by everything from light fines and probation to long prison sentences. However, even relatively minor offenses can be heavily penalized if the defendant has a prior criminal record, making it especially important for these individuals to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after being arrested.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanor offenses, which are generally considered less serious than felonies, are divided into the following three categories:

• Class A misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine;
• Class B misdemeanors, which are considered less serious than Class A misdemeanors and are punishable by six months in prison and $1,000 in fines; and
• Class C misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to $500 in fines and two months in jail.

Some of the most commonly charged misdemeanors include operating a vehicle while intoxicated, possessing marijuana, disorderly conduct, and public intoxication.

Felonies

Offenses that are associated with more serious physical, emotional, and financial injury fall under the category of felonies. Felonies are punishable by prison sentences ranging from six months to life in prison and some defendants even face the death penalty. Like misdemeanors, felonies are divided up into categories and include:

• Level 1 felonies, which are punishable by between 20 and 40 years imprisonment and a $10,000 fine;
• Level 2 felonies, which could mean between ten and 30 years in prison;
• Level 3 felonies, which come with sentences of three to 16 years;
• Level 4 felonies, which are punishable by between two and 12 years in prison;
• Level 5 felonies, which come with sentences of between one and six years in prison; and
• Level 6 felonies, which are the least serious type of felony and as such are punishable by  between six months and 2 1/2 years in prison.

Aside from these penalties, judges are also given discretion to order probation in lieu of incarceration, as well as community service, or driver’s license suspensions.

Call Today to Schedule a Free Consultation with an Experienced Dyer Criminal Defense Attorney

To speak with a criminal defense attorney about your own charges, please contact Tanzillo Stassin & Babcock P.C. at (219) 865-6262. Initial consultations are conducted free of charge, so please don’t hesitate to call.