Benton County Criminal Lawyers

I was born and raised in Fort Wayne, Indiana, attending Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, where I majored in Political Science and graduated with honors.

While attending law school, I was actively involved with the Moot Court Board, serving as the Moot Court Board Chairman. I received several awards in law school, including the prestigious Leadership Achievement Award, the Frank Harper Achievement Award, and the Moot Court Board Chairman Awards.

After graduating law school, I was a certified legal intern with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, in the Narcotics Division, until I became a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in 2009. ...

A former prosecutor committed to providing high quality legal representation.

Jacob T. Rigney is a founding partner at Rigney Law LLC. Jake graduated from Rushville Consolidated High School in Rushville, Indiana in 1996. He received a B.A. in Broadcast Journalism with a minor in Rhetoric in 2000 from Franklin College of Indiana. Jake started law school 3 days after graduating from college, receiving his J.D. from Indiana University in Bloomington in December of 2002, graduating early.

Jake began his legal career in the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office, where he began as a misdemeanor deputy prosecutor, rising through the ranks to major felony...

Attorney K. Aaron Heifner is a skilled criminal defense, family law, and personal injury attorney. He is the founder of Heifner Law Inc., where he assists clients with a broad range of legal issues, including DUI/OWI defense, probation violations, domestic violence charges, divorce, child custody and support, car accidents, and more. Attorney Heifner has developed a reputation as an aggressive advocate for parents and defendants, as well as those injured due to the negligence of another person, company, or entity. With every case he takes on, Attorney Heifner strives to provide his clients with personalized, one-on-one attention and open communication....

Nakeina S. Cane is a former Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, who served the community for over 6 years. Nakeina is an experienced trial attorney and has skillfully litigated cases during both court trials and trial by jury. She is a diligent litigator and committed to the profession. Nakeina received her undergraduate degree from the University of Louisville in 2006. During her academic career, Nakeina was awarded the honors of Governor's Scholar, Woodford Porter Sr. Achiever Trustee Scholar and Kentucky Legal Education Opportunity (KLEO) Graduate. Nakeina earned her law degree from the University of Louisville Brandeis School...

Roseann's passion has always been working in the field of law. She began her career at the largest law firm in Northwest Indiana and within six months followed her desire to begin her own law firm. Roseann Ivanovich has been the lead defense attorney on countless jury trials. These were felony cases that consisted of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Dealing in a Controlled Substance, Neglect of a Dependent, Robbery, Possession of Cocaine, Felony Theft, and Murder. Also included were misdemeanor cases: Driving While Intoxicated, Battery, Battery on Law Enforcement, Domestic Battery, Theft and Traffic Citations. ...

Attorney Deal is the founder of the Indianapolis criminal defense firm, David E. Deal and Associates. As a former prosecutor, Mr. Deal is able to predict the actions that the opposing side may take against his clients. Since 2012, he has been included in the list of National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 Under 40, demonstrating his ability to provide his clients with tough defense and effective counsel. In 2015, Attorney Deal was recognized by Super Lawyers as one of Indiana's 'Rising Stars', an achievement that is awarded to no more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in each...

Graham has a multi-dimensional practice. In the governmental-services area, he assists government units with a wide range of issues—from competitive bidding and open-door-law compliance to land use issues and eminent domain proceedings. He has advised government clients at the state, county, and town levels.

In terms of litigation, Graham’s practice includes complex civil trial and appellate work in both state and federal courts. From plaintiff’s personal injury matters, and insurance coverage disputes, to breach-of-contract and real property issues, Graham has broad base of litigation experience. He has briefed cases in state trial courts, federal district court, Indiana Court of Appeals,...

Katie J. Kawiecki, Of Counsel, graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law in 2006 and received her undergraduate degree, a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Criminal Justice, from Trine University in 2003.


As Of Counsel with Chambers Law LLC, Katie focuses her practice in 3 main areas: Family Law, Breach of Warranty Claims (Lemon Law), and Criminal Law. Katie focuses her family law practice in matters involving but not limited to divorce, paternity, child custody, child support, and protective orders representing individuals throughout central Indiana. She has significant trial experience and has worked in a variety of areas...

Chris Eskew is a criminal defense lawyer based in Indianapolis, with extensive experience handling both felony and misdemeanor cases. The team of criminal defense attorneys at Eskew Law handle a broad range of criminal cases.

Attorney Ivancevich graduated with a Legum Magister (LL.M) from the University of Dayton School of Law and obtained her Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from the Appalachian School of Law. Attorney Ivancevich is a licensed attorney in Indiana and Illinois and Indiana Notary Public. Additionally, she is a passionate adjunct professor and teaches Cannabis and the Law.

Attorney Sarah Brinkley put herself through college and law school. She began working in a corporate law firm in 2011 and finished college with honors. Like many of the clients she represents, real life experience has taught her how to persevere when faced with a challenge. It is now her mission to advocate with diligence, professionalism, and, most importantly, compassion. At Brinkley Law, we work for you. Clients come first, and Attorney Brinkley values the importance of keeping clients involved and informed every step of the way. Settling for less than what is deserved has never been an option for Attorney...

Please visit our law firm's website at www.Bennett-Legal.com for more details. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to earn your trust AND your business.

Tara Cragen is an attorney at the law firm Cohen & Malad. Tara was born and raised in Johnson County, Indiana. Tara earned her Bachelor of Arts at IUPUI and Juris Doctorate from the Indiana University McKinney School of Law. While attending law school, Tara worked as a Certified Legal Intern for the Johnson County Prosecutor’s Office where she gained experience in the courtroom. During her time in law school, Tara served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and as a board member of the Family Law Society. Tara focuses her practice in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense,...

Edward J. Calderaro was born and grew up on the north side of Chicago. Mr. Calderaro moved to Indiana, married and began an eleven year career in law enforcement. Mr. Calderaro worked for the City of Gary and the Town of Dyer, as a police officer. While working full time, he pursued his education, graduating "with distinction" from Purdue University. Mr. Calderaro obtained a Bachelor Degree in Management, with a double major in Accounting and Finance. Mr. Calderaro left law enforcement after being accepted to Loyola Law School in Chicago. He received his Juris Doctorate degree and Certificate in Tax...

Jonathan D. Harwell, owner and founder of Harwell Legal Counsel, grew up in Ohio before moving to Indiana in high school. Harwell attended Ball State University, where he majored in legal studies and graduated cum laude. He was also a member of the Legal Studies Honor Society before continuing his education at the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law. He graduated with the CALI Excellence for the Future Award and Gold Level Pro Bono recognition before beginning his career.Harwell, a member of the Indiana Bar Association, has dedicated himself to serving the legal needs of Indiana’s residents. He...

At the Law Office of Carman L. Malone, we are dedicated to providing top-notch legal solutions for everyday individuals. Our commitment lies in consistently delivering high-quality services and fostering trusting relationships with our clients. We pride ourselves on thoroughly understanding our clients' needs, maintaining open communication, and consistently acting in their best interests. Our clients are not just clients—they are the core of our work, and their success defines our success. We measure our achievements by their victories, and our satisfaction comes from ensuring our clients are genuinely pleased with the outcomes of our efforts. Whether dealing with significant or minor matters,...

Bill has spent his entire career practicing criminal law. Prior to joining Banks and Brower in February 2019, Bill served as a Deputy Prosecutor in Marion County for nine years.

Bill started his career with the Prosecutor’s office in the Juvenile Division, where he handled thousands of cases ranging from misdemeanors to major felonies. Bill next moved to the Municipal Division, where he handled level 6 felonies and tried several bench and jury trials. For the last five years of his tenure with the Prosecutor’s office, Bill served in the Major Felony Division. During this time, Bill...

Julie Chambers graduated with honors from The University of Toledo College of Law in 2007, and she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor in 2003. Julie focuses her practice on criminal and traffic law, representing individuals throughout Central Indiana. She has significant trial experience and has worked in a variety of areas of law. In 2008, Julie accepted a position with the Marion County Prosecutor’s Office in Indianapolis as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney, handling misdemeanors and felonies. During her time as a Deputy Prosecutor, Julie served...

Dedicated, Experienced Legal Representation for Indiana Clients My attorney's office is located in Danville Indiana, Hendricks County. I practice all throughout central Indiana. As a lawyer I focuses mostly in the area of Family Law, Criminal, and Probate. When you entrust me with your matter, you expect and deserve a lawyer who will work hard with a dedicated commitment to your matter. You want a lawyer who will take your matter to heart, and not treat you or your as just another file. You want a lawyer who understands what is at stake for you. ...

Attorney Eduardo Fontanez was born and raised in Northwest Indiana.

Attorney Eduardo Fontanez handles many different types of legal matters throughout Northwest Indiana (ex: Crown Point, Merrillville, Whiting, East Chicago, Hammond, Griffith, Gary) and the surrounding counties.

The office is less than a mile away from the expressway which makes it convenient for clients.
I hope we can resolve any issue you may need. I and my staff, here at the Law Office of Eduardo Fontanez, are focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction - we will do everything we can to exceed your expectations.

Andrew Wolf has been practicing law since 2002. He received his law degree from Ohio Northern University and also holds a master's degree in business administration from Purdue University and a bachelor's degree in political science from Indiana University.

Aaron Harshman is an experienced criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis with over 10 years of legal experience. He has worked for the State of Indiana as a Deputy Prosecutor, Director of the Board of Nursing, and as the Hendricks County Prosecuting Attorney. Aaron has also worked as a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for both the Hancock and Tippecanoe County Prosecutor's Offices. He obtained his J.D. from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law in 2012 with a focus on criminal law. During law school, he was involved in various activities and societies, including the Moot Court Order of the Barristers and...

Zach Phillips is one of the founding partners of Bernhardt Phillips, LLP and an experienced litigator whose passion and drive will make all the difference in your case.

Attorney Brett Galvan is a graduate of Andrean High School, in Merrillville, Indiana. After working for 13 years at Ford Motor Company, he received his Bachelors, with Honors, in Education from Purdue. From there, he Graduated from Valparaiso School of Law.

I am Robert J. Varga, a criminal defense attorney who has served clients throughout northwest Indiana for more than 16 years. I have successfully represented clients in a wide range of cases which include traffic tickets, license suspensions, CDL and commercial driving matters and DUI/DWI/OWI. I also represent clients in all manner of misdemeanors and felony cases, including murder. I have also litigated personal injury matters throughout northern Indiana.

Graduated with the highest honors possible (Summa Cum Laude, Corpus Juris Secundum) from the Valparaiso School of Law and with honors in Psychology from Ball State. Proud to be starting my 23rd year of practicing law in Marshall County, Indiana. My firm prides itself on doing these right the first time and I utilize an integrative and holistic approach to problem-solving. We assist clients in finding the most beneficial resolution to their pending issues.

I am Attorney Eric Blankenship of Blankenship Law, LLC and Indiana is my home. For over 19 years I have served as a representative and counsel for Hoosiers who face life changing legal matters. In my experience, I have come to understand just how much zealousness is necessary for success in criminal defense and family law cases. Whether my clients need aggressive representation in a divorce trial, or someone to help defend their rights when facing a criminal charge, I work hard to make sure their voices are heard. I also offer resources to individuals who are suffering with a personal...

As your lawyer, I seek outcomes tailored to your individual needs and objectives. When I meet with you for the first time, I will listen carefully to your side of the story and thoroughly explain the legal process. Together, we will discuss all available options for a resolution. I provide trial representation when needed and always seek the best possible outcomes. Family disputes and other legal issues can be difficult to talk about. I strive to provide a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere in my office where you can feel free to talk openly and honestly. I will be equally open and...

Romy has been practicing law since 2014. He received his undergraduate degree from Indiana University in 2011 and his legal education from Indiana University, Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Romy has been selected by his peers as a Rising Star from 2020-2023. Romy began his legal career as a Criminal Defense attorney in Lafayette, IN from October 2014 to May 2016. He then made the transition to Family Law with a firm in Hamilton County until August of 2021. Romy also spent time in Shelby County practicing primarily family law. He will continue his career here at Banks & Brower...

Cassandra graduated from Valparaiso University School of Law, with honors, in 2003. Cassandra understands the needs of working families, as she attended Purdue North Central and Valpo Law School full time while also working her part-time job in a hospital laboratory and raising two young children with her husband, Ken. She began her legal career in her late 30's, so that she brings life experience as well as her legal knowledge to the table when helping her clients. Cassandra has worked primarily out of her Knox, IN, office since 2003, although she regularly travels to courts in counties...

Donald J. Schmid is a former Assistant U.S. Attorney and practices in the areas of criminal defense, civil litigation, internal investigations, and regulatory compliance. He served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice in the Northern District of Indiana for more than 21 years from 1994 to May 2016. As an award-winning federal prosecutor, he won more than 75 jury trials in the United States District Court. He was Chief of the South Bend Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office from 2002 to 2004.

Prior to becoming an Assistant U.S. Attorney, Mr. Schmid...

Matthew R. Effner (Matt) is the managing partner of Effner Law Firm. In 1996, Matt joined his father, Robert O. Effner, in the practice of law as an associate with Effner Law Firm and became a partner in 2000. He took over as managing partner in 2013. Matt is skilled at building strong cases and is a zealous advocate for his clients. He is experienced at handling issues both in and out of the courtroom. He is a former president of the Terre Haute Bar Association, and he received the Tribune Star Readers’ Choice Award for Best Lawyer in...

Grey Harris is a lead felony trial attorney for the GDS Law Group felony trial team. Aggressive and experienced, Attorney Harris thrives as a litigator, fighting for the rights of his clients throughout the life of their case, including in trial. Prior to working for GDS Law Group, Attorney Harris was employed as a felony prosecutor in Madison County Indiana. Grey firmly believes that the criminal justice system can only work when defendants have access to quality representation to counter the resources of the State of Indiana. Grey takes pride in providing that level of representation to criminal defendants throughout Indiana. Attorney...

A native of Kokomo, Indiana, Attorney Susan D. Rayl is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney. In her practice of more than 25 years, she has represented hundreds of clients in various stages of the criminal proceeding, from pre-trial investigation up to and including appeal, working with the most complex and difficult criminal cases. Ms. Rayl opened her own solo law practice in Indianapolis in 2000, focusing on criminal appeals, and later became a partner in the law firm Smith Rayl Law Office, LLC. All told, Susan has more than twenty-five years of experience in criminal defense. She has conducted numerous...

Chadwick Hill was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. He was admitted to the bar in 1997. His undergraduate degree was obtained from Saint Louis University and his law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law, Detroit, Michigan in 1997.

He joined Garrison Law Firm in 2010 and has concentrated his practice in the areas of criminal and civil litigation, personal injury, and entertainment representation. Mr. Hill has litigation experience in both state and federal courts. He also represents personalities in the areas of motor sports (IndyCar series), boxing, and music industries.