Criminal Defense Lawyer
Were you charged with a crime in Valparaiso, Indiana, Chicago, Illinois, or one of the surrounding communities? If you are facing criminal charges, your reputation, professional license, finances, and freedom may be on the line. You need a criminal lawyer on your side to ensure your rights are protected. Criminal defense lawyer Jason A. Ott can help guide you through the criminal justice system, applying legal strategies to reduce or eliminate your charges or penalties.
If you were charged with a crime in Indiana or Illinois, Contact criminal defense lawyer Jason A. Ott online 24/7 for a FREE consultation.
Charged with a Serious Crime? Here’s What to Do
A criminal conviction can have life-changing consequences, impacting virtually every aspect of your life. The steps you take after you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime in Indiana or Illinois can make a significant difference in the outcome of your criminal case.
The following are steps to take that can help preserve your future when you’ve been charged with a crime.
Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
The Fifth Amendment of the Constitution provides you with the right to refuse to incriminate yourself. This right is granted to everyone in the United States, including undocumented immigrants and felons. When you are arrested and charged with a crime, the police are required to inform you of this right when they read you your Miranda rights. If they fail to do so, it could invalidate your case. Even if police don’t read you your rights, however, it is wise to avoid answering questions or providing any information without your criminal lawyer present.
Remain Polite
Try to stay calm and collected when you interact with law enforcement. Avoid resisting arrest, arguing with police, or becoming aggressive. Doing so could jeopardize your case and even result in further charges getting filed against you. Even if you feel like your rights have been violated, you’ve been wrongfully arrested, or you don’t know why the police are questioning you, remain polite and bring up your concerns with your criminal defense lawyer.
Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
The criminal lawyer you choose to defend you can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Although court-appointed attorneys may be available, they are often overworked and may not have the time to devote to your defense. You will need an attorney who is experienced with your type of case, and one who can identify legal strategies that may reduce, or even eliminate your charges.
Understand Your Charges
You have the right to know what charges you are facing. If you don’t understand the severity of the crime you are facing or the penalties that may be involved, be sure to discuss this with your criminal lawyer. Understanding the potential consequences of a conviction can help you and your attorney when deciding whether to accept a plea bargain, plead guilty, or enter a not guilty plea.
Be Honest with your Attorney
You will need to provide your criminal defense lawyer with accurate information about your case so he or she can develop the best strategy for your defense. The information you share with your attorney is confidential and protected by attorney-client privilege, so you should not be afraid to speak the truth.
What Our Clients Say
Excellent when it came to working my case. Just when I gave up he continued to work and won my case. I would recommend him to anyone and hire him again if needed.
I was in a car accident that totaled my car and left me with some extensive injuries. The insurance company of the person who hit me wanted me to settle for far less than what I thought was fair. I consulted with Jason and hired him that same day. Never having gone through this process before I felt that Jason could take my case and get me a fair settlement. The whole process did take quite a bit of time but I was pleased with the outcome. Thank you Jason.
I was in an auto accident with a snowplow my work contracted. I was scared, worried and my job was put on the line. Jason A. Ott and his assistant were always available by text, phone, or email to provide me support. Jason fought diligently to get me the settlement I deserved. I trust Jason and assure anyone that invests their time in him that he will take care of you in every aspect. He was so supportive it truly helped me get through the stressful situation of going through a lawsuit. Thank you Jason for everything you did for me. I am grateful and if I ever need a lawyer again you will be my first phone call.
Criminal Cases Our Law Firm Handles
Our law firm handles a wide range of criminal cases in Indiana and Illinois. These include, but are not limited to:
What Consequences Could You Be Facing if You Are Convicted of a Crime in Indiana or Illinois?
- Probation
- Steep Fines
- Incarceration
- Community Service
- Drug or Alcohol Treatment
- Driver’s License Suspension
- Ignition Interlock
- Loss of Professional License
- Loss of Employment
Aggravating Factors Can Impact Your Case
In Indiana and Illinois, aggravating factors can significantly impact a criminal case, sometimes resulting in harsher fines or extended periods of incarceration. These include, but are not limited to:
- Previous Convictions
- Location of the Crime
- Involved Serious Bodily Harm
FAQs About Criminal Charges
At an arraignment, the defendant is informed of the charges against him or her and advised of his or her constitutional rights. The defendant then enters a plea, typically one of not guilty. At trial, evidence is presented in court and the prosecutor has the burden of proving the defendant committed the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
Miranda rights serve as a reminder that the person who is getting charged with a crime has constitutional rights under the Fifth Amendment.
The “washout period” in an Indiana criminal case is the time period, usually between five and ten years, in which the prosecution reviews the defendant’s criminal history for prior convictions. In some cases, prior convictions can become enhancements that increase the severity of penalties for your current offense.