If you are arrested, stay calm and maintain your right to remain silent. Do not answer questions or offer statements to law enforcement without an attorney present. Request a lawyer immediately and avoid resisting arrest, as this can lead to additional charges.
Criminal Defense
CHARGE: Drunk Driving
Result: Reduced to reckless driving, later expunged
CHARGE: Drug Possession
Result: Charges dismissed after completing drug rehabilitation program
CHARGE: Carrying Concealed Weapon Without Permit
Result: Negotiated plea deal, reduced charge, avoided felony conviction
CHARGE: Assault
Result: Successful self-defense argument, not guilty verdict
CHARGE: Aggravated Robbery
Result: Negotiated a plea deal, received a reduced sentence
CHARGE: Felony DUI
Result: Charges reduced to misdemeanor after participating in rehabilitation program
CHARGE: Reckless Driving
Result: Charges reduced to misdemeanor
CHARGE: Possession of Stolen Property
Result: Cooperated with police, charges dropped
We will protect your reputation and pursue the best possible outcome.
NWI Criminal Defense Attorneys
The stakes of a criminal case are high. If convicted, you could face harsh criminal penalties, including fines, restitution, probation and even prison. Furthermore, the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction can turn your life upside down, affecting your job, professional license, family life and other factors.
Please remember: You are innocent until proven guilty.
Our experienced Indiana criminal defense lawyers know how to effectively defend against the charges you face. Defense lawyer Paul Rossi will aggressively defend against the charges you face, seeking the best possible outcome, whether it be dismissal of charges, reduced charges, alternative sentencing or acquittal by jury.
The Legal System Wants You to Plead Guilty in the Very Beginning of a Case
The legal system is set up to pressure you into a guilty plea, even if you’re innocent. The sheer volume of cases motivates judges, prosecutors and public defenders to pressure criminal defendants to plead guilty at the very earliest stage of a case.
You should protect your freedom and your record by having a consultation with Paul Rossi Law Offices before your arraignment. Your consultation will give you insights into legal defenses overlooked by a legal system anxious to get you to plead guilty.
The Consultation
During your consultation, I will ask you to tell me what happened in your own words. Some clients like to prepare a written account of the events that led to their Lake County arrest; others feel more comfortable relating the events verbally.
The next stage of the consultation consists of questions I will need to ask you in order to determine what kind of defense strategy would work best in your case.
For instance, if you were being charged as being one of three men involved in a robbery, one question I would ask you is whether or not you have a person who could serve as an alibi witness in your defense.
Many cases involve illegal searches. If you have such a case, I would ask you questions about the search to determine whether or not I can get the case dismissed by bringing a motion to suppress evidence seized as a result of an illegal search.
After gathering the information I will need to determine what kind of defense would work best in your case, I will discuss with you the strategy I would pursue to achieve a successful outcome for you.
Finally, I will invite you to discuss your greatest concerns with me and to ask me any questions you feel are important to your defense. I am confident that I will be able to guide you through this crisis with my many years of experience building successful defenses for my clients.
FAQs About Criminal Defense in Indiana
What Should I Do If I'm Arrested?
What Rights Do I Have When Interacting with Police?
You have several constitutional rights when dealing with law enforcement. You have the right to remain silent, the right to request an attorney and the right to refuse a search without a warrant. Clearly and respectfully assert these rights to protect yourself during any interaction with police.
What Is Probable Cause and Why Does It Matter?
Probable cause is a legal standard that law enforcement must meet to make an arrest, conduct a search or obtain a warrant. It indicates that there is a reasonable belief that a crime was committed based on facts and evidence. Understanding probable cause is important because it determines whether law enforcement acted within the boundaries of the law during your arrest or search.
What Happens During an Arraignment?
An arraignment is your initial court appearance following a criminal charge. During this formal proceeding, the specific charges against you will be officially presented, and you will then be prompted to enter your plea: guilty, not guilty or no contest. It is critical to have an experienced attorney by your side to advise you on the best course of action.
Why Is Experienced Legal Representation Important?
The legal system is designed in a way that progresses cases quickly, often pressuring defendants to plead guilty early on. Judges, prosecutors and public defenders may prioritize efficiency over justice, which can result in unfavorable outcomes for defendants. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney means that all possible defenses are thoroughly explored.
What Are Some Possible Defense Strategies?
Effective defense strategies vary depending on the specifics of your case. Common approaches include contesting the legality of the arrest, questioning the validity of evidence, demonstrating self-defense, negotiating plea deals for reduced charges and presenting alternative sentencing options.
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Our Values
compassion
We sit down with you privately to fully understand your situation, your fears and what you hope to achieve. We are responsive and answer all inquiries with the utmost sensitivity to your case.
discipline
Our team is with you every step of the way, no matter how difficult the road ahead. We share your goals and use all resources at our disposal to provide dependable representation.
work ethic
Hard work is foundational to what we achieve at our firm. We work relentlessly to serve you however we can during your time of need. Our work ethic guides us as your legal advocates.
Contact us today for a case evaluation.
WE MAXIMIZE YOUR RECOVERY,
WITH EACH & EVERY CASE WE HANDLE.
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by appt. only1000 Eagle Ridge Dr., Suite F
Schererville, IN 46375
CHESTERTON
by appt. only501 Allen Ct., Suite 2265
Chesterton, IN 46304
Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing contact information, users acknowledge and give explicit consent to be contacted via the methods of communication provided, including SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to opt out.
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