Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Should You Testify in Your Criminal Case?
If you’ve been charged with a crime and your case is going to trial, it might seem like a good idea to testify in court. But while you have the right to testify in your own defense, is it a good idea for you to take the witness stand? Deciding whether you should testify… Read More »
Mitigating vs. Aggravating Factors in Indiana Criminal Sentencing
Judges in Indiana have discretion when it comes to sentencing criminal defendants. While Indiana sentencing guidelines provide judges with recommended sentencing ranges, they also allow judges some level of discretion. Judges can consider individual circumstances that may warrant departing from the recommended sentencing range. Mitigating and aggravating factors are two types of factors that… Read More »
Debunking 5 Myths About Criminal Defense Attorneys
Criminal defense lawyers play a crucial role in the legal system. The primary responsibility of criminal defense attorneys is to protect the rights of criminal defendants and ensure that defendants receive a fair trial. Criminal defense attorneys provide legal advice to their clients, if necessary they will conduct their own investigation, they develop the… Read More »
What Is the Role of a Jury in a Criminal Trial?
Criminal defendants in the United States of America have the right to a fair trial. A fair trial includes having an impartial and neutral jury preside over your criminal trial. However, a jury is not required in every criminal case. The use of a jury may depend on the nature of the crime and… Read More »
Things To Know About Indiana Marijuana Laws
It seems like all states in the U.S. are constantly changing their marijuana laws, making it challenging to track what rules apply in which state. As an Indiana resident, it is vital that you understand which marijuana laws apply to you, as the laws in place in other states do not apply in Indiana…. Read More »
5 Crucial Indiana Gun Laws
Residents of every state need to be familiar with their state’s gun laws. Remember, the gun laws in another state do not apply in your state. If you are in Indiana, you must understand the state’s gun laws before purchasing, possessing, selling, or carrying a gun. Indiana has some of the least restrictive gun… Read More »
Things To Know Before Deciding Not To Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
Facing criminal charges can be a scary thing. When charged with a criminal offense you face jail time, significant fines, and more if convicted. Additionally, you could suffer collateral consequences, such as being unable to find a job or housing and losing some of your rights, such as the right to possess a firearm…. Read More »
Public Defender vs. Private Attorney
In the U.S., someone facing criminal charges has the constitutional right to an attorney. You also have the option of representing yourself. However, it is advisable that criminal defendants avoid self-representation. If you have been charged with a crime, you can be represented by a public defender or private attorney. You are entitled to… Read More »
Things To Know Before Deciding Not To Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney
Facing criminal charges can be a scary thing. All criminal offenses in Indiana carry potential jail time, and fines. And much more if you are convicted of a serious crime. Additionally, you could suffer collateral consequences, such as being unable to find a job or housing and losing some of your rights, such as… Read More »
How an Attorney Can Help You Fight a Wrongful Sexual Assault Charge in Indiana
If you are facing sexual assault charges in Indiana, you should not underestimate the severity of the charges against you. Even if you have been wrongfully accused, you need to take the situation seriously. Being wrongfully convicted of a sexual assault charge can have devastating effects on your life. A wrongful conviction can result… Read More »