Defending the rights of the accused across Shelby County for decades. Proven criminal defense counsel for serious felony charges, from arrest through trial.
Overview
Facing a felony charge in Shelbyville, IN is a serious matter that demands immediate legal attention. Cases prosecuted in the Shelby County court system can carry life-altering consequences that affect your freedom, career, and future. Indiana’s criminal code classifies felonies into six distinct levels, ranging from Level 6 as the least severe to Level 1 as the most serious. Penalties can range from six months to decades in prison depending on the level of the offense and the circumstances involved. The period immediately following an arrest is critical because early representation by an experienced felony lawyer can significantly influence the outcome of your case. An attorney who understands the local court procedures in Shelby County and the nuances of Indiana sentencing guidelines can build a stronger defense from the very beginning. Securing qualified legal counsel as soon as possible is one of the most important decisions you can make to protect your rights and your future.
The Stakes
Indiana’s felony sentencing laws are complex, and prosecutors move quickly to build a case against you. Indiana classifies felonies into six levels under IC 35-50-2, ranging from a Level 6 felony carrying six months to two and a half years, up to a Level 1 felony carrying twenty to forty years. Prior convictions can also trigger a habitual offender enhancement under IC 35-50-2-8, significantly increasing the potential sentence. Shelby County courts also have specific procedural requirements and deadlines that can affect your defense if missed.
A skilled attorney will review the arrest, challenge improperly obtained evidence, and negotiate firmly with the prosecutor on your behalf, or take your case to trial if necessary. Without proper representation in Shelbyville, you risk facing the full weight of the charges without a defense built to protect your future.
Why Choose Us
What We Handle
A Felony Lawyer defends clients charged with violent felonies including battery, robbery, and assault, building a defense from the moment of arrest. RileyCate, LLC works to protect your rights at every stage of the process.
Selecting Counsel
Not every felony lawyer in Shelbyville has the trial experience needed to stand up to an aggressive prosecutor. Prosecutors know which firms will push for a plea rather than fight. When evaluating representation, look for a documented track record handling felony trials, evidence suppression motions, and sentencing advocacy, not just volume of cases. Consider whether the firm has experience with your specific type of charge, as violent crime cases and drug offense cases often require different defense strategies.
Ask how your case will be communicated to you, and by whom. Be cautious of firms that overpromise specific outcomes. Reputable felony attorneys provide honest assessments, not guarantees. RileyCate, LLC was founded on a commitment to expertise, creativity, and results, and has never shied away from a courtroom when that is what it takes.
Our Office
Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Your Legal Rights
The Process
Selecting Counsel
RileyCate, LLC proudly serves individuals facing felony charges not only throughout Shelbyville and Shelby County but across the surrounding communities and neighboring counties throughout Central Indiana. Our deep familiarity with Shelby County courts, local prosecutors, and the criminal justice process allows us to build a strong defense with precision and dedication. Whether your case is being heard in the heart of Shelbyville or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
In Shelbyville, IN, a felony attorney typically costs between $2,500 and $10,000 or more depending on the severity of the charges, with lower-level felonies generally falling on the lower end and serious charges like violent crimes reaching the higher range. Most felony defense cases in the area are handled through flat fee or retainer arrangements that are discussed in detail during an initial consultation with the attorney. Many criminal defense lawyers serving Shelbyville and the surrounding Shelby County area offer free or low-cost initial consultations so potential clients can understand their options before committing financially. It is worth reaching out to multiple attorneys to compare fees and consultation availability since some offer same-day or next-day consultations while others may require scheduling a few days in advance.