Indiana's legal system is complex and, at times, daunting to navigate. Facing criminal charges or being entangled in a legal situation can be overwhelming for anyone. That's where experienced criminal defense attorneys come into play. At B. Hicks Law, we specialize in assisting clients in various criminal defense matters. In this blog post, we'll delve into one specific area of Indiana's criminal law: Assisting a Criminal, as defined under IC 35-44.1-2-5.
Understanding Assisting a Criminal in Indiana:
IC 35-44.1-2-5 outlines the law concerning Assisting a Criminal in the state of Indiana. This statute deals with a person who, without being a parent, child, or spouse of someone who has committed a crime or is a fugitive from justice, knowingly assists the individual in order to hinder their apprehension or punishment.
Penalties and Offense Levels:
Assisting a Criminal is considered a Class A misdemeanor under Indiana law. However, the severity of the offense can vary depending on specific circumstances. The statute outlines the following scenarios:
Level 6 Felony: If the person assisted has committed a Class B, Class C, or Class D felony before July 1, 2014, or a Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, or Level 6 felony after June 30, 2014, the offense becomes a Level 6 felony.
Level 5 Felony: If the person assisted has committed murder or has committed a Class A felony before July 1, 2014, or a Level 1 or Level 2 felony after June 30, 2014, the offense becomes a Level 5 felony.
In cases where the assistance provided involves a deadly weapon, it also falls under the Level 5 felony category.
Legal Defense Considerations:
One essential point to note is that in a prosecution under this section, it is not a valid defense that the person assisted:
Has not been prosecuted for the offense.
Has not been convicted of the offense.
Has been acquitted of the offense by reason of insanity.
However, it is crucial to understand that the acquittal of the person assisted for other reasons may be a viable defense.
B. Hicks Law Firm's Expertise:
Navigating the intricate world of criminal law in Indiana can be a challenging task. Our team at B. Hicks Law Firm has a wealth of experience in criminal defense and can provide the expertise you need to understand the legal landscape, build a strong defense, and protect your rights. We know that every case is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet the specific needs of each client.
Our commitment to our clients goes beyond the courtroom. We take pride in our ability to explain complex legal matters in simple terms and guide our clients through every step of the legal process. When you choose B. Hicks Law, you choose a dedicated team of attorneys who will work tirelessly to protect your interests.
Assisting a Criminal cases in Indiana can be complex and carry significant consequences. Understanding the intricacies of the law and building a strong defense are essential to safeguard your rights and future. If you or a loved one is facing legal issues related to Assisting a Criminal or any other criminal charges in Indiana, don't hesitate to contact B. Hicks Law Firm. We are here to provide the expertise and support you need in your time of need. Our commitment is to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case.