Trial Experience and Evidence-Driven Defense
Ian Fleming describes the jury-trial experience gained as a public defender and how evidence and a client’s account inform defense preparation.
Read the video transcript
One of the things that you gain as a public defender is trial experience. Lawyers who have never worked in a capacity as a public defender or a prosecutor may go their entire career without ever going to jury trial. When you work in the government side of the criminal justice system, you will go to trial. It's not an if it's a when. That's something that I take pride in that I know how to work those kinds of cases. How to work with the evidence. I know how to develop my clients’ stories to demonstrate that they're not just stories that this isn't just I'm trying to get out of jail, but that I am in fact innocent.
What to know about kidnapping and confinement defense in Indiana
The exact statutory theory and evidence matter because the penalties and collateral consequences can be severe. The precise exposure depends on the charged offense, the evidence, prior history, and the court. An early legal review can identify deadlines, preserve evidence, and prevent avoidable statements or decisions.
Harwell Criminal Defense examines the complete record—not just the charging document. That can include police reports, recordings, forensic material, digital evidence, witness accounts, crimmigration consequences, and the procedures used to obtain evidence.
How our team approaches the case
We begin by listening carefully and explaining the process in plain language. We then investigate the facts, identify legal and factual weaknesses, assess collateral consequences, and develop a strategy for negotiation, motion practice, trial, appeal, or post-conviction litigation.
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 now
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, crimmigration concern, or appeal deadline may be involved.
Common questions
Answers about kidnapping and confinement defense
What is criminal confinement in Indiana?
The next step depends on the court, charge, and procedural posture. Counsel can review the filings, explain upcoming deadlines, and help you prepare before the next hearing.
Does movement have to be a long distance?
Possible defenses turn on the facts and the law. They may involve identity, intent, credibility, authorization, constitutional violations, evidentiary problems, or whether the State can prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
What evidence matters in these cases?
Earlier is usually better. Prompt review may preserve evidence, protect deadlines, and create more strategic options. If a deadline or hearing is near, say so when requesting a consultation.