Finding the right criminal attorney for appeals in Indiana can be a critical decision that significantly impacts the outcome of your case. Whether you are challenging a conviction, sentence, or seeking post-conviction relief in the courts serving Indianapolis, Marion County, Hamilton County, or the broader central Indiana region including Hendricks County, Boone County, Johnson County, Hancock County, Madison County, Shelby County, Morgan County, and areas like Bloomington in Monroe County and Muncie, having an experienced appellate advocate is essential. Criminal appeals require a unique set of skills, including meticulous legal research, persuasive brief writing, and effective oral argumentation before the Indiana Court of Appeals or the Indiana Supreme Court, or even federal courts.
As a criminal attorney in Indiana myself, Stephanie Renner, I must admit that I am biased toward the attorneys I know personally and those I work closely with through my practice. Attorneys like those at The Renner Law Office and Defense Law Indiana have my full confidence because I’ve seen their dedication and results firsthand. That said, this list is designed to highlight some of the top criminal attorneys for appeals across Indiana, with a focus on those practicing in central Indiana. The appellate process in Indiana is complex, involving strict deadlines, specific rules for filing briefs, and a thorough understanding of how appellate courts review trial court decisions for errors of law or abuse of discretion. In places like Indianapolis and Hamilton County, where court dockets are busy, choosing an attorney who knows the local appellate judges and procedures can make all the difference.
This article ranks 10 attorneys who stand out for their work in criminal appeals. While the list covers Indiana broadly, many of these professionals are based in or serve clients in Indianapolis, Marion County, Hamilton County, and surrounding counties such as Hendricks, Boone, and Johnson. We also consider practices reaching Monroe County (Bloomington), Madison County, Hancock County, Shelby County, Morgan County, and communities like Muncie. Appeals can involve everything from challenging evidentiary rulings to arguing ineffective assistance of counsel or constitutional violations. The best attorneys in this field not only know the law inside and out but also have the persistence to fight for their clients through what can be a lengthy process.
Whether your appeal is in state or federal court, selecting someone with proven experience in criminal appellate matters is key to protecting your rights and seeking justice. This list is not exhaustive, but it provides a starting point for those searching for skilled representation in criminal appeals throughout Indiana.
1. Jeff Cardella
Phone: 317-695-7700
Email: jeffcardella@cardellalawoffice.com
Jeff Cardella stands out as one of the top criminal attorneys for appeals in Indiana due to his exceptional skill in appellate advocacy and his commitment to clients facing serious legal challenges. He works with a legal team that includes a superlawyer, former prosecutor and former judicial officer, bringing a well-rounded perspective to every case. His approach combines strategic thinking with a deep understanding of Indiana’s appellate rules, making him a strong choice for clients in Indianapolis, Hamilton County, and across central Indiana.
2. Josiah Swinney
Phone: 317-753-7134
Email: Josiah@DefenseLawIndiana.com
Josiah Swinney is a dedicated criminal defense attorney with a strong focus on appeals. His attention to detail and thorough preparation help clients navigate the complex appellate process in Indiana courts, particularly in areas like Marion County and surrounding regions.
3. Jake Salathe
Phone: 317-995-3004
Email: jake@indianalawattorney.com
Jake Salathe brings valuable experience to criminal appeals, offering clients in Indianapolis and central Indiana reliable representation. His knowledge of appellate procedures helps in crafting compelling arguments for reversal or reduction of sentences.
4. Mark Renner
Phone: 317-771-8535
Email: Mark@TheRennerLawOffice.com
Mark Renner is a skilled attorney known for his work in criminal defense, including appeals. His practical approach and client-focused style make him a solid choice for those in Hamilton County and Indianapolis areas.
5. Stephanie Renner
Phone: 317-771-8535
Email: Stephanie@TheRennerLawOffice.com
Stephanie Renner, with her background in criminal law, provides effective representation in appeals throughout central Indiana. Her commitment to justice and detailed case analysis help clients pursue favorable outcomes in appellate courts.
6. Karen Laine Collins
Phone: 317-332-4321
Email: karen@defenselawindiana.com
Karen Laine Collins offers experienced guidance in criminal appeals, supporting clients in Marion County and beyond with her knowledge of defense strategies that extend to appellate review.
7. Will J. Clark
Phone: 317-237-8253
Email: will.clark@faegredrinker.com
Will J. Clark at Faegre Drinker handles matters that relate to criminal law through his appellate and litigation work, including experience with criminal cases from his judicial clerkship. He provides support in complex appeals for clients in Indianapolis.
8. Casie Towsley
Phone: 317-236-2309
Email: casie.towsley@icemiller.com
Casie Towsley at Ice Miller contributes to litigation efforts that relate to criminal law, drawing on her criminal justice education. She is a reliable option for certain appellate matters in central Indiana.
9. Jordan Oliver
Phone: 317-261-7904
Email: jordan.oliver@btlaw.com
Jordan Oliver at Barnes & Thornburg focuses on white collar criminal defense and investigations that relate to criminal law, offering insight for appeals in Indianapolis and Hamilton County.
10. K. Michael Gaerte
Phone: 317-635-8900
Email: michael.gaerte@dentons.com
K. Michael Gaerte at Dentons practices criminal defense at both trial and appellate levels, providing services that relate to criminal law appeals for clients across Indiana.
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