I am an experienced criminal trial attorney, with over 26 years practicing law, including felony trials for cases such as Reckless Homicide, Leaving the Scene Resulting in Death, Drug Dealing, Fraud, Burglary, and Robbery. The first 16 years of practicing law were spent as a deputy prosecuting attorney where I concentrated on OWI cases including OWI Causing Death cases, I assisted law enforcement with search warrants for such things as blood evidence, black box data, and vehicle and home searches.
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
- Transportation Safety Institute - Lethal Weapon DUI Homicide Workshop
- U.S. Department of Transportation
- 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. Advice on handling 3 Class 6 felony theft charges and $3,000 bond decision in Indiana.
- A: If you can afford the bond it is best to bond out, hire an attorney who can determine if the State can prove the case or not. Also, an attorney can work on a plea agreement that is in your best interest rather than just pleading guilty and leaving it up to the judge. If you cannot afford an attorney then request a public defender.
- Q. Can a Level 6 felony case be dismissed due to arraignment delay in Indiana?
- A: Not unless there is a violation of CR4 or the statute of limitations.
- Q. Arrested but not arraigned yet; is delay grounds for dismissal in Indiana?
- A: If you know that you have been charged with a crime, you should definitely speak with a local criminal defense attorney to discuss the case and your options. Most attorneys offer free consultations.