Northwest Indiana 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 is acutely aware of what it takes to assemble 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 police and circumstance can victimize innocent people. 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 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.

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 handle your case best. 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 record of advocating for 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 severe 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 D misdemeanor to a Level 3 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 can adamantly advocate for you and throw everything we’ve got at your case to provide world-class legal services.

Possession of Paraphernalia Charges

Being accused of possessing, manufacturing, or selling drug-related paraphernalia can lead to serious consequences, even if you are not found to be in possession of any illegal drugs. In Indiana, charges for possession of paraphernalia can range from a Class C misdemeanor to a Level 6 felony. Your criminal history and the type and quantity of paraphernalia you are accused of possessing will determine the severity of the charges.

Possession of a syringe, like possession of paraphernalia, punishes the use of a syringe by someone without a medically necessary reason for the use or possession of the syringe. Possession of a syringe is a Level 6 Felony.

A conviction for possession of paraphernalia or syringe can impact your personal and professional life for years to come. It is always in your best interest to seek experienced legal counsel to defend your rights when accused of a drug-related criminal charge.

Domestic Battery Charges

Domestic battery is considered a violent crime, though varying levels of physical contact can constitute what is considered battery.

The mere accusation of domestic battery can have a negative impact on your life. If you are charged, your 2nd amendment right to carry a handgun, firearm, or ammunition will be impacted, and that impact will remain on your record if convicted.

Though domestic battery is a severe charge, every story has two sides. 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

Being 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, you must 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 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 include crimes such as arson, murder, rape, forgery, robbery, burglary, and others. Even a lesser charge, like reckless driving, can potentially be classified as a major felony if a victim is seriously injured.

Nearly all felony charges fall into one of six levels. The least serious is a Level 6 felony, which can carry a prison term of six months to 30 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.

First-degree murder is an unclassified felony and one of the most serious charges a person can face. A conviction can carry a prison term of 45 years to life and possibly even the death penalty.

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 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 with: delinquent offenses and status offenses. A status offense is specific to minors and can include violations such 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. Still, it takes an attorney 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 positively affect 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 must 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 freedom. Contact us to schedule a free consultation today.