Defending the rights of the accused across Hancock County for decades. Proven criminal defense counsel for misdemeanor and felony charges, from arrest through trial.
Overview
If you are facing criminal charges in Fortville, IN, securing a skilled defense lawyer should be your top priority. Cases in this area are typically handled through the Hancock County court system, where judges and prosecutors take both misdemeanor and felony offenses seriously. Under Indiana criminal law, misdemeanors can carry penalties of up to one year in jail, while felony convictions may result in years of imprisonment and substantial fines that can impact your future for decades. The distinction between these charge levels often determines the legal strategy your attorney will pursue on your behalf. Early representation after an arrest is critical because the decisions made in the first hours and days of a case can shape the entire outcome. Having a knowledgeable defense lawyer by your side from the very beginning ensures that your rights are protected, evidence is properly examined, and every available legal option is explored to build the strongest possible defense.
The Stakes
Indiana’s criminal laws are complex, and prosecutors move quickly to build a case against you regardless of whether you are facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge. Indiana classifies misdemeanors into three classes and felonies into six levels under IC 35-50-2, and each carries its own sentencing range and long-term consequences for your record. 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 Fortville, you risk facing the full weight of the charges without a defense built to protect your future.
Why Choose Us
What We Handle
A Defense Lawyer defends clients facing serious felony charges across all six levels under Indiana law, 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 defense lawyer in Fortville 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 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 white collar 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 defense 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 criminal charges not only throughout Fortville 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 Fortville or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
In the Fortville, IN area, a criminal defense attorney typically charges anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 or more depending on the severity of the charges, with misdemeanor cases generally falling on the lower end and felony cases requiring significantly higher fees. Most criminal defense lawyers in this area handle cases through flat fee or retainer arrangements that are discussed during an initial consultation, which many attorneys offer for free or at a reduced rate. It is worth noting that consultations are widely available both in person and virtually from attorneys serving the Fortville and greater Hancock County area, making it easy to explore your options before committing. Reaching out to a few local attorneys for initial consultations is the best way to get an accurate quote tailored to your specific case and circumstances.