Accessible, Client-Centered Criminal Defense
Jonathan Harwell discusses cost-conscious representation and payment options intended to help clients begin a defense plan.
Read the video transcript
Well, we saw where the gaps were within Indiana's criminal justice system. We saw the individuals that could either afford high-priced legal services or the individuals that could only get a public defender, but not the individuals that are being served in between. There was nothing there. That's who we are. We're the individuals that can help everybody, and that's what we want to do. With our cost-effective approach and our ability to serve people on payment plans and make sure that you are able to get the services that you need, that's where we come in. We want to make sure that you are still getting the best client-centered criminal defense that there is in Indiana.
Criminal defense for Indianapolis and communities across Indiana
The firm is based in downtown Indianapolis and serves clients statewide, with particular familiarity in Marion County and the surrounding counties. The appropriate strategy depends on the charge, available evidence, prior history, court, deadlines, and the consequences that matter most to the client.
Harwell Criminal Defense reviews the complete record—not only the charging document. That may include police reports, recordings, forensic material, digital evidence, witness accounts, immigration consequences, and the procedures used to obtain evidence.
Trial, appellate, and post-conviction representation
Representation may involve investigation, negotiations, evidentiary and constitutional motions, trial preparation, direct appeals, post-conviction relief, or federal habeas corpus. Matching the strategy to the case stage is especially important because different deadlines, standards, and records apply.
Every case is different. No lawyer can promise a result, but every client can expect preparation, candid advice, respectful communication, and advocacy calibrated to the stakes.
What to do after an arrest, charge, or investigation
Do not discuss the case on social media or with anyone who is not your attorney. Preserve messages, documents, photographs, and potential witness information. If police want to question you, ask to speak with a lawyer before answering substantive questions.
Contact counsel promptly when an arrest, warrant, hearing, license deadline, immigration concern, appeal deadline, or post-conviction deadline may be involved.
Common questions
Answers about indianapolis and indiana criminal defense
How do I choose a criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis?
Consider whether the attorney regularly handles the type and stage of case involved, can explain the likely process and deadlines, and gives a candid assessment rather than promising a result. Ask who will work on the matter and how the firm communicates with clients.
Does Harwell Criminal Defense handle cases outside Indianapolis?
Yes. The firm is based in Indianapolis and represents clients throughout Indiana, including Marion County and the surrounding counties. Whether the firm can accept a particular matter depends on the court, schedule, conflicts, and case-specific needs.
What should I bring to an initial criminal-defense consultation?
Bring charging documents, court notices, bond or release conditions, hearing dates, relevant messages or records, and a list of immediate questions. Do not alter or delete potential evidence. If a hearing or filing deadline is near, identify it when requesting the consultation.
When should I contact a criminal defense lawyer?
Earlier is usually better. Prompt review may preserve evidence, protect deadlines, and prevent avoidable statements or decisions. Contact counsel promptly if police request an interview, a warrant or summons is issued, or a hearing or appellate deadline is approaching.