I am an experienced criminal trial attorney, with over 22 years practicing law, including felony trials for Reckless Homicide. The majority of those years were spent as a deputy prosecuting attorney where I concentrated on OWI cases including OWI Causing Death cases.
In my capacity as a deputy prosecuting attorney I would routinely go to crash scenes at all hours of the day or night. Many times throughout the year I would conduct training for law enforcement officers. This has provided me with a keen insight into and knowledge of the criminal justice system.
This passion to do my best and put the hours needed into a case is now brought to defending my clients in Northwest Indiana including the counties of Lake, Porter, La Porte, St. Joseph, Newton, Jasper, Starke and Marshall in a variety of criminal cases including misdemeanors and complex felonies.
I rely upon my honesty and integrity, presenting the facts in a straight forward manner. I strive to maintain a strong rapport with my clients, other legal professionals and the bench. I would like to put my knowledge, experience & dedication to work for you.
- Valparaiso University School of Law
- J.D. | Law
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- Ball State University
- B.S. (1994) | Political Science, Psychology, Business
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- Bennett & Catsadimas, P.C.
- Current
- Prosecutor Perspective in OWI cases and substance abuse treatment, Fall Conference, Nashville, IN
- Panel discussion for Introduction to Courts, Ivy Tech College
- Panel discussion on Criminal Justice System, the role of the Police, Prosecutor and Defense Attorney, Criminal Law class
- Ivy Tech College
- Client's Choice Award
- Avvo`
- Indiana State Bar # 20788-45
- Member
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- Lake County Bar Association
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- Activities: Criminal Defense section
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- Porter County Bar Association
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- American Inns of Court, Calumet Council
- Master of the Bench
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- Indiana
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- Free Consultation
- Credit Cards Accepted
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Rates, Retainers and Additional Information
I do offer flexible payment plans that work with your budget.
- Criminal Law
- Criminal Appeals, Drug Crimes, Expungement, Fraud, Gun Crimes, Internet Crimes, Sex Crimes, Theft, Violent Crimes
- DUI & DWI
- Traffic Tickets
- Suspended License
- Domestic Violence
- Domestic Violence Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
- White Collar Crime
- Specialized Driving Privileges
- Expungements
- English: Spoken, Written
- Q. My friend witnessed domestic violence and she didn't intervene. Is she in trouble?
- A: Your friend would not be in trouble for not intervening especially in light of the size difference between her and the abuser. If charges are filed against him for beating his girlfriend, your friend may be required to testify.
- Q. Where do I find the definition of intoxicated in the Indiana law regarding Habitual Traffic Violator?
- A: Intoxication is not an element of Habitual Traffic Violator. To be HTV a person is determined based on accumulating 3 major moving traffic violations in a 10 year period or 10 judgements for moving violations with either 1 or 2 being major moving traffic violations and the others being minor moving traffic violations. Some major traffic violations involve the use of alcohol or drugs such as operating while intoxicated, however, with other major moving traffic violations drug or alcohol are not elements of the crime.
- Q. If my charges are: 35-43-4-2(a) ma what kind of punishment is possible
- A: If you have been charged with Theft as a Class A Misdemeanor, the possible penalties are 0 up to one year in jail and $0 up to a $5,000 fine. A conviction would also be for a crime of dishonesty which could have collateral consequences. If you have not discussed your case with a local attorney consider doing so sooner than later.