Indiana Murder Lawyers
Defending Those Accused of Murder in Fort Wayne and the Surrounding Areas
If you have been charged with murder in Indiana, it is imperative that you retain aggressive legal representation as soon as possible. Merely being accused of taking another's life can hurt your personal relationships, reputation, and professional future. If you are found guilty of the offense, you could be fined thousands of dollars and sentenced to prison for decades or even death. With a skilled and experienced defense attorney on your side, you can fight the charge and seek a favorable resolution to your case.
Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C. is a defense firm located in Fort Wayne. Our team consists of knowledgeable Indiana murder attorneys with over 75 years of combined experience and a great reputation. We understand what is at stake when someone has been accused of this crime. That is why we do whatever is legally necessary to protect their rights and future. Our attorneys are client-focused and begin each case by getting to know the people we defend. When you choose us, we will learn about you as a person and listen to your side of the story. By conducting extensive research and reviewing the facts and the prosecutor's allegations against you, we can work to build the strongest possible defense on your behalf.
If you are facing murder charges in Indiana, discuss your case with our team by calling (888) 912-7220 or submitting an online contact form today.
What Are Indiana's Murder Laws?
In general, murder is defined as the unlawful taking of another person's life. Indiana's murder laws enumerate several different ways in which a person may be charged with this offense. Although a couple of situations involve the intentional killing of someone else, others include taking another's life while engaged in other illegal conduct.
In Indiana, the four situations in which a murder charge may be levied include:
- Purposely causing another's death: One way a person may be charged with murder in Indiana is if they intentionally or knowingly kill someone else.
- Causing death during a felony: Another way murder may be charged is if the alleged offender caused the death while committing or attempting to commit a felony. Note that they need not have intended to kill someone else to be accused of felony murder.
The felonies specified under Indiana's murder law include:
- Arson
- Burglary
- Child molesting
- Consumer product tampering
- Criminal deviate conduct
- Kidnapping
- Rape
- Robbery
- Human trafficking
- Promotion of human labor trafficking
- Promotion of human sexual trafficking
- Promotion of child sexual trafficking
- Promotion of sexual trafficking of a younger child
- Child sexual trafficking
- Carjacking
Causing death during a drug crime: A person may also be charged with murder if they caused someone else's death while committing or attempting to commit a specified drug crime. These include:
- Dealing or manufacturing in cocaine or a narcotic drug
- Dealing in methamphetamine
- Manufacturing methamphetamine
- Dealing in a Schedule I, II, III, IV, or V controlled substance
- Causing the death of a fetus: A person may face murder charges if they knowingly or intentionally kill a fetus, regardless of the stage of development it is in.
When murder charges are brought in Indiana, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the alleged offender is guilty. At Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., our Indiana murder lawyers go through every detail of a case to identify weaknesses in proof and cast doubt in the minds of the judge or jury.
What Are the Penalties for Murder?
Murder is a serious offense carrying severe penalties.
Upon a conviction, the following punishments can be imposed:
- Between 45 and 65 years of imprisonment and/or up to $10,000 in fines
- For a person 18 years of age or older at the time of the offense:
- Death; or
- Life imprisonment without parole
- For a person between 16 and 17 years of age at the time of the offense:
- Life imprisonment without parole
The stakes are high in an Indiana murder case and can have substantial ramifications on you. Our murder lawyers are prepared to develop and present a compelling defense strategy on your behalf, seeking the best possible result.
Discuss Your Murder Case Today
At Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., we are ready to stand by you throughout your case. We understand the stress and fear that can arise after being accused of murder, which is why we will be available for you 24/7 to address your concerns and answer your questions. Know that we are here to give an honest and straightforward assessment of your situation and let you know what your legal options are.
Schedule a free consultation with one of our Indiana murder attorneys by contacting us at (888) 912-7220.
The Reason We Work So Hard Read What Past Clients Had to Say
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"Mr. Arnold and Mr. Terrill are amazing!"
They have both gone above and beyond for my family. I love the staff that I have worked with on our cases as well. Highly recommend!
- Martha -
"I would highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of legal guidance!"
Mr. Arnold has provided legal advice and guidance during a difficult situation of mine. I found him to be experienced, responsive, knowledgeable, and honest. While working with Mr. Arnold, I felt as though my situation was in adept and trustworthy hands.
- Brendan -
"Mr. Terrill handled my case and did a great job."
They have earned my trust as far as having many years of experience at their jobs and within the court system.
- Nick -
"This is a great firm with very dedicated attorneys and staff."
They will always communicate each step of the process and help you navigate a difficult situation.
- Marcie -
"The attorney did for me exactly what I needed."
Professional and friendly through every step. The secretary was very kind and helpful. She stayed In touch and kept me updated through every step.
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"I wholeheartedly endorse Bart Arnold for all criminal/traffic matters."
On two occasions, I had the good sense to call Bart after receiving a ticket. Bart handled everything perfectly all while billing me a figure much, much less than most local attorneys.
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"Jeff Terrill - The best attorney in town!!!!"
He will be honest and tell you upfront exactly what to do and how the cards will be dealt and how you're going to play your hand.
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"I know he worked relentlessly for me!"
I was represented by Sean Arata on an infraction and could not have hoped for a better outcome.
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A Team You Want on Your Side
Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
Why People Choose to Work With Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C.
We Will Protect Your Rights & Future
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Renowned ReputationOur firm has built a great reputation due to our proven track record of success in complex cases.
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Aggressive Defense
Our legal team will provide a vigorous defense regardless of the severity of the charge.
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Accessible to ClientsWe understand that time is of the essence. We are available 24/7 and offer free consultations.
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Unparalleled Experience
At Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C., our attorneys have a combined 75 years of legal experience.
