Top-Rated Valparaiso, IN Criminal Defense Attorney
When your future hangs in the balance, results matter.
Mark Worthley has over 14 years of experience practicing criminal defense law. As a former Indiana prosecutor and public defender, Mark has an acute awareness of what it takes to put together a strong and rock-solid defense.
We understand the stress, anxiety, and uncertainty you’re facing, and we are here to help.
It’s no secret that innocent people can be victimized by police and circumstance. From being arrested, wrongly accused, or even convicted of crimes they didn’t commit. We also understand that good people make mistakes and that a mistake shouldn’t have to cost you everything.
If you or a loved one are under investigation or have been charged with a crime, now is the time to act. Contact Worthley Law at (219) 575-8565 or reach out online. We offer free and discreet consultations to discuss how you can regain control of your future and get a roadmap toward a favorable or fair outcome.
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Why You Should Choose
Worthley Law As Your Criminal Defense Lawyer
We have a saying here at Worthley Law – your case is worth it.
These words are more than just a tagline; they are our philosophy. It means that no matter the circumstances, you can count on us to stand by your side and represent you with the dignity and respect you deserve.
Being accused of a crime can have life-altering effects, and the stakes are incredibly high. We are committed to protecting your freedom and advocating for you in the courtroom.
When you choose Worthley Law, you are making the right decision. As a former Deputy Prosecutor in Indiana, Mark Worthley has been on both sides of criminal law cases, giving him a unique perspective and insights on how to best handle your case. We know how Indiana State prosecutors work and can anticipate the strategies they’ll try to use against you.
The Benefits of Hiring Worthley Law:
- A criminal defense lawyer with years of experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney
- A long track record of success defending even the toughest cases
- Experience defending all types of criminal charges
- Evening and weekend availability
- Free, no-obligation consultations
Experienced Legal Counsel for Criminal Cases
From misdemeanors and DUI charges to sex crimes and felonies, you need experienced legal representation to protect your rights in any criminal case. Mark Worthley has a proven track record of advocating on behalf of his clients in the Indiana courtroom.
DUI/OVWI
You may have heard both terms DUI and OVWI. While DUI is short for driving under the influence and OVWI is an abbreviation for operating a vehicle while intoxicated, in Indiana, they both mean the same thing.
There is often confusion because other states might classify OVWI as something different than a DUI. In Indiana, OVWI is a broader term that can refer to ingesting anything that impairs judgment or reflexes and results in a state of being intoxicated.
However you label it, a DUI or OVWI is a serious offense that can have long-reaching consequences in your life, freedom, and career. We work with our clients to evaluate every possible legal defense to have charges dropped or reduce the penalties to fight for you to get the most favorable outcome possible.
Drug Possession and Dealing Charges
Whether you’ve been accused of possession or dealing, drug-related offenses in Indiana can come with harsh penalties, including jail time, excessive fines, and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
In Indiana, possession of a controlled substance can range from a Class A misdemeanor to a Level 6 felony. The charges you’ll face will depend on the type of controlled substance you allegedly had, the quantity, and whether you have prior drug convictions.
While your current situation may seem bleak, always remember that you are innocent until proven guilty in the eyes of the Law. We will adamantly advocate for you and give everything we’ve got at your case to provide world-class legal services.
Domestic Battery Charges
Domestic battery is considered a violent crime, though varying levels of physical contact can constitute what is considered battery.
Though domestic battery is a severe charge, there are always two sides to every story. Several potential defenses can be considered as we argue your case. Self-defense, defense of property, and defense of others are all possible avenues to explore. We will meet with you, listen to your recollection of the alleged events, thoroughly evaluate the situation to establish what happened, and find evidence that can potentially help your case.
Sex Crime Charges
eing accused of a sex crime can be particularly damaging, especially if you are innocent or the allegations are exaggerated. In Indiana, sex crimes encompass a wide array of charges, including rape, sexual battery, and offenses involving children.
If you are faced with charges related to a sex crime, it is vital that you seek qualified legal counsel. A successful conviction can result in mandatory registration with the Indiana Sex and Violent Offender Registry, along with possible jail time and a sullied reputation.
Misdemeanor Cases
While misdemeanors are less serious crimes than felonies, they can still impose harsh penalties. There are three classes of misdemeanors, with Class A being the most serious. Class A misdemeanors can result in up to one year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Notice the emphasis on the words “up to.”
We will do everything in our power to have misdemeanor charges dismissed. We may also seek eligibility for a pretrial diversion, especially if the crime is non-violent or you have no prior convictions. This course of action forgoes jail time in favor of treatment or education courses.
Major Felony Cases
A major felony conviction can result in penalties beyond even the risk of serving time in prison. Hefty fines and permanent losses of freedom are also distinct possibilities. For example, a gun-related felony conviction could rob you of the right to buy or possess a gun in the future.
More severe than a misdemeanor, felonies are crimes such as arson, murder, rape, forgery, robbery, burglary, and others. Even a lesser charge like reckless driving can potentially result in being classified as a major felony if a victim is seriously injured.
There are six levels of felonies. The least serious is a Level 6 felony, which can carry a prison term of six to 18 months. The most serious, a Level 1 felony, includes attempted murder and aggravated rape. The associated prison term with a Level 1 felony is 20 to 40 years.
Given the escalating degrees of penalties, it is wise to seek the services of a criminal defense attorney to attempt to reclassify the charge or have it dropped altogether.
Juvenile Legal Cases
When someone under the age of 18 is arrested or breaks the law, they are subject to a different set of rules, and cases are heard in the Juvenile Division of the District Attorney. There are two types of violations that juveniles can be charged for: delinquent offenses and status offenses. A status offense is specific to minors and can include violations as underage drinking, truancy, or being out past curfew.
Children who commit one of these offenses can often move past this incident and go on to lead successful and productive lives, but it takes an attorney who is skilled and sensitive in dealing with these matters to ensure that the focus is on learning from a prior mistake instead of imposing harsh penalties.
Expungements
You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that in certain situations, your Indiana criminal record can be sealed. Having a conviction expunged or sealed from your record in Indiana can have a positive effect on your income potential and overall quality of life.
Expungements can be valuable because they allow you to be eligible for more jobs and can also ensure you pass a background check. It can even impact your ability to get a loan or some trade licenses. Several crimes are eligible for expungement, including arrests, criminal convictions, delinquency adjudications, and more.
Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief
Both appeals and post-conviction relief can result in a case being overturned or dismissed. Other potential options are sentence modifications and record expungements. For a case to be eligible for appeal, an attorney will have to show that the trial court judge erred somehow. As we’ve said before, having experienced legal representation matters, especially in criminal cases.
Criminal convictions, whether they’re a misdemeanor or a felony, can be life-changing. You owe it to yourself and your loved ones to have a skilled litigator on your side. At Worthley Law, we will aggressively fight for your rights and your freedom. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today at (219) 575-8565.
