Criminal Law in Hendricks County
Hendricks County, Indiana, is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, situated just west of Indianapolis in the heart of central Indiana. As the population expands across communities like Plainfield, Avon, and Danville, law enforcement activity and criminal case filings have grown accordingly. Residents facing criminal charges — whether minor misdemeanors or serious felonies — need experienced legal guidance to navigate Indiana's complex criminal justice system. A qualified criminal law attorney can make a critical difference in protecting your rights, negotiating with prosecutors, and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
Courts Handling Criminal Law Cases in Hendricks County
Criminal law matters in Hendricks County are primarily handled by the Hendricks County Superior Court, which operates multiple divisions in Danville, the county seat. The Hendricks County Circuit Court also has jurisdiction over certain criminal proceedings, including serious felony cases. Initial hearings for lower-level offenses and preliminary matters may be addressed through the county's judicial system before being assigned to the appropriate Superior Court division.
Common Criminal Law Situations in Hendricks County
Common criminal matters in Hendricks County include OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) charges, drug possession and dealing offenses, domestic battery, theft, and driving-related crimes — all of which have increased alongside the county's suburban growth along the I-70 corridor. Traffic stops on US-36, US-40, and the Ronald Reagan Parkway frequently lead to arrests for OWI or possession charges. Residents also seek legal help for domestic violence allegations, probation violations, and expungement of prior criminal records under Indiana law.
Penalties and Outcomes in Indiana
Under Indiana law, criminal offenses are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies, with misdemeanors carrying up to one year in county jail and felonies ranging from Level 6 (up to 2.5 years) to Level 1 (20 to 40 years in state prison). An OWI conviction in Indiana can result in license suspension, mandatory substance abuse programs, fines, and possible jail time, especially for repeat offenders. Beyond incarceration, criminal convictions in Indiana can affect employment, housing, professional licensing, and immigration status, making early legal intervention essential.
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Why Go To Court for Criminal Law in Hendricks County
Go To Court Lawyers connects Hendricks County residents with criminal law attorneys who understand Indiana's statutes, local court procedures, and the specific practices of Hendricks County judges and prosecutors. Our network is dedicated to providing accessible, informed legal representation so that every person facing criminal charges has the guidance they need from the very start.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Indiana?
In Indiana, misdemeanors are less serious offenses divided into three classes: Class A (up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine), Class B (up to 180 days), and Class C (up to 60 days). Felonies are more serious and are classified on a numbered level system from Level 6 (the least severe) through Level 1 (the most severe), with potential sentences ranging from six months to 40 years in state prison. The classification of your charge significantly impacts the penalties you face and the long-term consequences on your record, which is why consulting a criminal law attorney early is strongly advised.
Can I get a criminal record expunged in Indiana?
Indiana's expungement law, found under IC 35-38-9, allows eligible individuals to petition the court to seal or expunge certain criminal records, including arrests that did not lead to conviction, misdemeanor convictions, and some felony convictions, after a specified waiting period. The waiting period varies depending on the type of offense — for example, misdemeanor convictions typically require a five-year wait, while certain felonies may require eight to ten years. Not all offenses qualify for expungement, particularly serious violent crimes and sex offenses, so speaking with a criminal defense attorney is important to determine your eligibility.
What should I do if I am arrested in Hendricks County?
If you are arrested in Hendricks County, you should exercise your right to remain silent and clearly invoke your right to have an attorney present before answering any questions from law enforcement. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court, so it is important not to try to explain yourself or argue your innocence at the scene. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible — ideally before any formal questioning — so that your rights are protected from the earliest stage of the process.
How does Indiana handle OWI charges, and what are the consequences?
In Indiana, Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) is governed by IC 9-30-5 and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on factors such as the driver's blood alcohol concentration, whether a minor was in the vehicle, or whether the driver has prior OWI convictions. A first-offense misdemeanor OWI can result in up to one year in jail, fines up to $5,000, and a license suspension of up to two years. Repeat offenses or OWIs involving injury or death can be elevated to felonies with substantially harsher penalties, making it critical to secure legal representation promptly after an OWI arrest.
What happens at an initial hearing in Hendricks County criminal court?
At an initial hearing in Hendricks County, the judge will formally advise the defendant of the charges filed against them, inform them of their constitutional rights, and determine whether bail or bond should be set and at what amount. The defendant will also have the opportunity to enter an initial plea of guilty, not guilty, or not guilty by reason of insanity. This first appearance is an important step in the criminal process, and having an attorney present at or before this hearing can help ensure that bail is set at a fair amount and that your rights are fully protected from the outset.