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.
- 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
- 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.
- Indiana
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- English: Spoken, Written
- Bennett & Catsadimas, P.C.
- Current
- 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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- Client's Choice Award
- Avvo`
- Indiana State Bar # 20788-45
- Member
- Current
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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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- 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
- Q. Can "Fruit of the Poisonous Tree" be used as a defense for meth found after false gun report?
- A: Likely not, had the police pulled you over simply because of the false allegation of a gun, you might have a good chance. However, because you fled, the discovery of the meth was likely as a result of a search incident to an arrest. The definitive answer will depend on the fine details of the circumstances, you should consult with a local criminal defense attorney to discuss all the facts and details. Most attorneys offer free consultations.
- Q. Can I reduce or drop a ticket for speeding 74 mph in 55 mph zone in Indiana?
- A: To answer your question will depend on a few factors. Are you a CDL operator, if so, it is very likely the prosecutor will tell you your only option is to pay the ticket or take it to trial. If you are not a CDL operator, it will depend on your record and which county your case is filed in.
- Q. Facing Level 6 felony charges for alleged kidnapping despite having permission proof from custodial parent.
- A: Make sure you take screenshots of the FB messages so they are not deleted or lost. You should also hire an attorney or request a public defender and give then the FB messages.
