Defending the rights of the accused across Hancock County for decades. Proven criminal defense counsel for serious felony charges, from arrest through trial.
Overview
Facing a felony charge in New Palestine, IN is a serious matter that demands immediate legal attention. Felony cases in this area are prosecuted through the Hancock County Superior Court, where judges and prosecutors handle these charges aggressively. 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 include anywhere from six months to 40 years of imprisonment depending on the level of the offense and any aggravating factors involved. The consequences extend far beyond incarceration and can include substantial fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment and housing opportunities for years to come. Securing legal representation as early as possible after an arrest is critical because the decisions made in the first hours and days of a case often shape its entire outcome. An experienced felony lawyer can protect your rights from the very start and build a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation.
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. Hancock 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 New Palestine, 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 New Palestine 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 New Palestine and Hancock County but across the surrounding communities and neighboring counties throughout Central Indiana. Our deep familiarity with Hancock 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 New Palestine or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
In New Palestine, IN, a felony attorney typically costs between $2,500 and $15,000 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 requiring significantly higher fees. Most felony defense cases in this area are handled through flat fee or retainer arrangements that are discussed in detail during an initial consultation with the attorney. Many local criminal defense lawyers offer free or low-cost initial consultations, making it easier for defendants to explore their options and understand the full scope of legal costs before committing. Consultation availability varies by firm, but most attorneys in and around New Palestine can schedule meetings within a few business days and some even offer same-day or virtual consultations for urgent matters.