Bloomington Attorneys Providing Answers To Common Criminal Defense Questions
Last updated on April 16, 2026
Our father-and-son lawyer team at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office, L.L.P., is dedicated to providing quality representation and thorough guidance to individuals navigating the complexities of criminal defense. Attorneys Sam and Tanner Shapiro have compiled answers to some frequently asked criminal defense questions to help guide you through the process.
How Will Your Case Proceed?
If you have been accused of a crime, your case typically begins with your arrest or your summons to appear before the court. After arrest, you will be charged with a crime and then, typically, you will have to post bail in order to be released. The next stage in the process is an initial hearing, at which the court will decide on how to proceed. After that comes the discovery process, during which your lawyer and the prosecution will gather evidence. Before trial, you will have a pretrial conference, during which the court, your defense and the prosecution make sure that your case is on schedule for resolution.
Note that all of the above happens before your case goes to trial – sometimes it is long before trial, and in some cases, you will never go to trial at all. However, at any point in this process it may be crucial to have the help of a good criminal defense lawyer.
For example, in some cases, our attorneys at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office have helped clients before they are arrested to negotiate a way to surrender to authorities without the embarrassment of being arrested in front of friends, family members or co-workers.
Our firm has also helped many clients avoid the initial hearing. In some cases involving minor crimes, our attorneys are able to help clients avoid trial through a pretrial diversion program. In some cases, they are able to help clients years after conviction by getting their records sealed through the process of expungement.
The sooner you can get an attorney working to defend you and your constitutional rights, the better. However, we work hard to defend the rights of our clients at any and every point in their case.
Can You Drive When Your License Has Been Suspended?
If your driver’s license has been suspended because of a DUI/OWI charge, you may not legally drive. However, you may be able to work out an arrangement under which you can drive to work, to medical or legal appointments or to perform other important tasks.
Another way to make a suspension easier is to get special driving privileges. Since 2015, Indiana judges have been able to grant special driving privileges to people whose driver’s licenses have been suspended. This can be a lifesaver for many people who have lost their driving privileges and are now having trouble traveling to work or important appointments.
Not everyone is eligible for special driving privileges, and the privileges can come with requirements and responsibilities. Our lawyer team at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office can analyze your situation to see if you have a chance for special driving privileges. They have helped many clients get their driving privileges back.
What Is The Difference Between A Misdemeanor And A Felony In Indiana?
In Indiana, crimes are generally classified as either misdemeanors or felonies based on their seriousness and the potential penalties involved.
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses. They are divided into three levels: Class A, Class B and Class C. A Class A misdemeanor is the most serious and can carry penalties of up to one year in jail and fines. Common misdemeanor charges include first-time DUI offenses, minor theft and simple battery.
Felonies are more serious crimes and are classified from Level 6 to Level 1, with Level 1 being the most severe. Felony convictions can result in lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines and long-term consequences that affect employment, housing and civil rights. Examples include serious drug offenses, violent crimes and repeat DUI charges.
The classification of a charge depends on factors such as prior criminal history, whether someone was injured and whether aggravating circumstances were present. In some cases, a charge may be reduced or enhanced based on how the case is handled.
Because the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony can significantly affect your future, it is important to speak with a criminal defense attorney as early as possible to understand your exposure and options.
What Is A Plea Bargain?
A plea bargain is an agreement in which the prosecution and the defense negotiate. In this negotiation process, the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a charge in exchange for certain concessions. This can be a viable option for clients facing serious charges, including drug crimes. By negotiating a plea bargain, clients may be able to avoid the uncertainty and risks associated with a trial.
A plea bargain can be a strategic decision, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. It is crucial to carefully weigh the pros and cons of a plea bargain and consider alternative options. Our attorneys can help you navigate this complex process and make an informed decision.
What Is The Difference Between A Private Attorney And A Public Defender?
A private attorney, like our advocates at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office, L.L.P., represents clients who have hired them directly. Meanwhile, a public defender is a government-employed lawyer who represents clients who cannot afford to hire a private attorney.
As private attorneys, our team can offer a more personalized approach to defending clients, tailored to their unique needs and circumstances. This can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case, particularly for clients facing serious charges. Our lawyers at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office have the resources and proficiency to devote to each client, allowing for a more comprehensive and effective defense.
Where Are People Held After Being Arrested In Monroe County, Indiana?
When someone is arrested in Bloomington or elsewhere in Monroe County, they are typically taken to the Monroe County Jail. This facility is operated by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office and serves as the primary detention center for individuals awaiting court appearances, bond hearings or transfer to another facility. The jail is located at 301 North College Avenue, Bloomington, Indiana 47404, placing it near downtown Bloomington and the Monroe County courts.
The Monroe County Jail maintains an online inmate locator that allows the public to search for individuals currently in custody. This tool can provide basic information such as booking status, charges and bond details. While this resource can be helpful, it does not always update immediately, particularly shortly after an arrest. In some situations, a person may be in the booking process for several hours before their information appears online.
If you are unable to locate a loved one through the inmate locator, our firm can assist. We regularly help families determine where someone has been taken, what charges may be involved and what steps come next. Early clarity can reduce stress and help families make informed decisions during a confusing and emotional time.
For those whose loved one has just been arrested, there are a few practical steps that may help in the immediate aftermath.
- Gather basic identifying information such as full legal name and date of birth, which can assist with jail inquiries.
- Avoid discussing the alleged incident over phone calls or recorded jail lines, as these communications may be monitored.
- Be prepared for delays, as booking, classification and bond determinations can take time.
Understanding where a person is being held is often the first step toward protecting their rights. Once someone is in custody at the Monroe County Jail, timing matters. Bond hearings, initial court dates and early decisions can affect how a case unfolds.
Reach Out Today For Your Criminal Defense Matter
To discuss your case and learn about your options in criminal defense, call our team at Shapiro & Shapiro Law Office, L.L.P., today at 812-484-3844. You can also contact us by email to request a consultation.
Our office is in Bloomington, and our lawyers represent clients throughout Indiana.