When you find yourself arrested, your first question will likely be, “Where is my Hamilton County court case actually held?” This confusion is normal, as are any feelings of uncertainty and fear. The answer typically depends on the nature of your charges. At Blankenship Law, LLC, we can review the reason behind your arrest and help you understand where your case might be held.
Noblesville, home to the seat of Hamilton County and thereby the Hamilton County courts, has an annual crime rate of 6.22 per 1,000 residents. Carmel, a suburban city in Hamilton County, has an annual crime rate of 8.74 per 1,000 residents.
If you are charged with a crime in either of these cities, knowing where your case is held is one of the first steps to protect your rights.
Where Your Case Is Held Depends on Your Charge
In Hamilton County, where your case is held depends on the nature of the criminal charge you’re facing. The Carmel City Court, for example, located inside the Carmel City Hall and Police Department building at 1 Civic Square, is more apt to handle cases within the city’s jurisdiction. These cases can include:
- Traffic tickets
- Local ordinance violations
- Certain misdemeanor cases
However, even if you were arrested in Carmel or another city in Hamilton County, such as Fishers, your case could get transferred to the Superior Court in Noblesville. The Hamilton County court handles more serious cases against the state, including:
- Theft
- Arson
- Fraud cases
- Drug crimes
- Violent crimes
When you are arrested, your attorney can inform you of where your case will likely be held. At Blankenship Law, LLC, we have experience handling cases in several local courthouses and can use that experience to your benefit.
Mistakes to Avoid Making in Hamilton County Court
Wherever your case is held in Hamilton County, there are several mistakes you need to avoid making following a criminal arrest. These mistakes can include:
- Posting to social media. You might think that posting to social media about your case will somehow help you. Maybe you want to garner public sympathy or demonstrate your innocence by posting. This is always a bad idea. On Facebook alone, more than 14,000 U.S. law enforcement agencies have an online presence and use it to find potential evidence against defendants in criminal cases.
- Ignoring court orders. When you are released from custody on bail, there are certain conditions that you usually need to follow. Failing to follow these conditions can result in serious consequences.
- Assuming your case isn’t that serious. Even in cases of minor traffic violations, such as speeding tickets, the consequences can be significant. Don’t assume your case isn’t that serious just because it might not yet include a felony charge.
Why Choosing Local Representation Matters: Blankenship Law, LLC
When you are charged with a crime in Carmel, Noblesville, or anywhere in Hamilton County, you need an attorney on your side who understands the local legal landscape. At Blankenship Law, LLC, our attorneys don’t just have extensive experience working on defense; they also served as prosecuting attorneys for the state of Indiana for 17 years.
This experience allows our team to understand both sides of the courtroom. When you place your trust in us, we use our past experience to the advantage of your case. Allow us to review the details of your criminal charge, uncover the necessary evidence to support your side of the story, and advocate for your future.
When you work with us, we see you for who you really are: a human being who has simply made a mistake. We can help you.
FAQs
Why Isn’t My Case Held in Carmel If I Was Arrested There?
If you were arrested in Carmel, but your case is being held in Noblesville, it is likely because you are facing more serious misdemeanor or even felony charges. These charges are typically considered “against the state” and must be processed through a state Superior Court, such as the Hamilton County court system.
What If I Am Arrested and I Am Innocent?
If you are arrested in Hamilton County and you are innocent, it is wise for you to comply with the arresting officers and contact an attorney. Arguing with the police will only land you in hotter water. You might be worried that hiring an attorney will make you look more guilty, but it is in your interests to take this step to protect your rights even in situations where you are innocent.
What Happens If I Miss a Court Date?
If you miss a court date in Hamilton County, or anywhere else in Indiana, you will be labeled with a “Failure to Appear”. This can result in serious, immediate consequences, including a bench warrant being issued for your arrest. The courts may also decide to revoke bail or forfeit any bond money already paid.
What Should I Do If I Get Arrested in Hamilton County?
If you get arrested in Hamilton County, you need to remember your rights. First, you have the right to remain silent. This means, past any booking information that the police might need from you, you do not need to answer any of their questions without your lawyer present.
Second, you have the right to an attorney. This means that when you are taken into custody, you can request to contact a skilled criminal defense lawyer. It’s essential to exercise these rights.
Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer
If you or a loved one has faced criminal charges in Noblesville or Carmel, Indiana, the likelihood that the case will be handled by the Hamilton County court system is very high. This can be a terrifying and overwhelming time for you and your family. Competent legal representation offered by the team at Blankenship Law, LLC can help you feel more at ease.
We invite you to call our offices today to learn more about our services, schedule an initial consultation, and hire a criminal defense lawyer who will aggressively advocate for your side of the story.
