Experienced Fort Wayne Criminal Defense Attorney Handles Felony Cases

Determined advocate provides strong representation for the most serious charges

In the state of Indiana, criminal offenses are divided broadly into two categories: misdemeanors and felonies. While either type of crime can result in jail time, felonies are more serious charges and carry more severe penalties. If you are under investigation for a felony or have already been arrested, you need a proven advocate who can protect your rights and fight vigorously for a positive outcome. Prosecutors are determined to make felony charges stick. These are the types of cases on which they build their careers. But with The Law Offices of Ryan E. Lackey, you get a tireless defender with the knowledge and experience to pursue the best possible outcome under the facts of your case.

Felony levels in Indiana

Felonies are the most serious crimes with the steepest penalties. These offenses often involve drug charges, violence, and/or property of great value. The Indiana Code divides felonies into six levels according to their seriousness:

• Level Six — These offenses are known as “wobblers,” because the authorities can charge either a low felony or a high misdemeanor. Judges have discretion in this matter, and whether you get a felony reduction often depends on how well an attorney negotiates. Sentences vary from at least six months in jail to 2.5 years in state prison as well as a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of a Level 6 felony include auto theft, possession of methamphetamine, sexual battery, distribution of child pornography and DUI with a prior within five years.
• Level Five — Sentences range from one to six years in prison with up to $10,000 in fines. Involuntary manslaughter, sexual misconduct with a child, robbery and burglary are examples of Level 5 felonies.
• Level Four — A conviction can result in two to 12 years in state prison with a fine of up to $10,000. Arson is often a Level 4 felony.
• Level Three — These offenses draw prison sentences from three to 16 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Aggravated battery, rape, and child molestation are examples.
• Level Two — These serious felonies are punishable by 10 to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Voluntary manslaughter is a Level 2 felony.
• Level One — The highest level of felonies is punishable by 20 to 40 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Examples of Level 1 felonies include rape with deadly force and attempted murder.
• Murder — This most serious offense stands alone. Under Indiana law, a person commits murder by knowingly and intentionally taking another person’s life “with malice aforethought.” Penalties range from 45 years’ imprisonment to death.

With such severe penalties in the balance, you need the best representation you can find. Criminal defense attorney Ryan Lackey stands ready to fight for your rights and challenge the charges against you.

Contact a determined Indiana criminal defense lawyer to fight felony charges

If you have been arrested and charged with a felony, The Law Offices of Ryan E. Lackey has the skill and experience to provide a strong defense. For a free consultation and cost-effective representation from an experienced Fort Wayne attorney, please contact the firm online or call us at 260-222-7364.