What To Do After Being Arrested for a Misdemeanor in Indianapolis

There are two different types of crimes in Indiana: misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors are considered less serious than felonies. However, misdemeanors can still have significant consequences. The most serious class of misdemeanor in Indiana carries a potential jail sentence of up to one year. Being convicted of a Class A misdemeanor can also result in a monetary fine of up to $5,000. If convicted of a Class B misdemeanor, you face up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $1000.  If convicted of a Class C misdemeanor, you face up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500. Therefore, if you are facing misdemeanor charges in Indiana, it is crucial that you are careful about the steps you take. The following are some of the critical steps you should take if you have been arrested for a misdemeanor in Indiana:

Remain Silent

The most vital thing to do when under investigation or facing misdemeanor charges in Indiana is to exercise your right to remain silent. You should not speak to law enforcement officers without your attorney present. Anything you say to law enforcement officers can be used against you. Staying silent can prevent you from making incriminating statements.

Understand the Charges Against You

If you are facing misdemeanor charges in Indiana, ensure you understand the specific charges against you. In Indiana, there are three types of misdemeanors: Class A, B, and C.  Class A misdemeanors are the most serious, followed by Class B misdemeanors and then Class C. Understanding the specific charges against you is crucial for several reasons, including comprehending the potential consequences if convicted.

Retain a Criminal Defense Attorney

One of the most crucial steps to take if you are under investigation or have been arrested and charged with a misdemeanor crime is to retain a qualified criminal defense attorney. An experienced lawyer can help you understand and protect your legal rights. They can help you understand the charges against you and the potential consequences of those charges. An experienced Indiana criminal defense attorney can help you develop a strong defense strategy that can help you fight the charges against you. A skilled attorney will guide you through the criminal process.

If hiring private counsel isn’t financially realistic for you, the good news is that you may be entitled to appointment of a public defender if you cannot afford to hire a private criminal defense attorney.

Collect Evidence

While you are not required to prove your innocence in a criminal case, it is still advisable to preserve evidence that either undermines the State’s case against you or supports your version of events.  Properly preserving and collecting evidence is crucial to your attorney’s ability to present that evidence in court. Once you retain a defense attorney, you should rely on them to gather the evidence relevant, and admissible, to your defense.  This can include witness testimony, expert testimony, or physical evidence such as documents, photos, videos, or forensic evidence.

Appear in Court

After an arrest, you will be expected to appear in court and answer to the charges against you. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is failing to appear in court on the scheduled day and time. When a defendant misses Court, it is a violation of their pretrial release.  It is likely that the Court will issue a re-arrest warrant.  Whether you are granted a new bond, or held in jail, until the case is resolved is up to the Court.

Contact Us for Legal Help

Are you facing misdemeanor charges? Contact a qualified Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer at Rigney Law LLC for professional legal representation. We can help you understand the charges against you, protect your rights, and develop a strong defense strategy to reach the most favorable outcome of your case.