Charged with a Crime in Indiana? 5 Mistakes to Avoid After an Arrest
Zach Baber • June 27, 2025
Being arrested is overwhelming, especially if it's your first time.
Whether it happened in Columbia City, South Whitley, or anywhere else in Whitley County, Indiana, you're probably wondering what happens next and how to protect your future.
Here are 5 of the most common mistakes people make after being arrested in Indiana and how to avoid them.
1. Posting on Social Media About the Case
It might be tempting to vent or explain your situation online, but don’t.
2. Missing Your Court Date
Missing court isn't just a mistake, it can result in a warrant for your arrest and the filing of additional charges against you.
Even one missed hearing can make your situation worse and reduce your chances of getting a favorable outcome.
3. Assuming an Attorney Will Handle Everything
4. Delaying Legal Representation
Some people wait too long to get a lawyer involved, assuming they have time.
5. Ignoring How This Affects the Rest of Your Life
It’s easy to get tunnel vision and focus only on court dates and fines.
Final Thoughts
Call us today at 260.244.4422 or schedule a consultation online if you are looking to hire an experienced attorney for your criminal case.
Here are 5 of the most common mistakes people make after being arrested in Indiana and how to avoid them.
1. Posting on Social Media About the Case
It might be tempting to vent or explain your situation online, but don’t.
Prosecutors and investigators regularly monitor social media.
A single photo, comment, or shared post can hurt your case.
What to do instead: Stay off social media until your case is resolved.
If you must use it, avoid any mention of your charges, your case, or anything remotely related.
2. Missing Your Court Date
Missing court isn't just a mistake, it can result in a warrant for your arrest and the filing of additional charges against you.
Even one missed hearing can make your situation worse and reduce your chances of getting a favorable outcome.
What to do instead: Keep a calendar, check your mail, and stay in close contact with your attorney.
If you’re not sure about a date or time, call the court or your lawyer.
3. Assuming an Attorney Will Handle Everything
An attorney will handle the legal side of things and guide you along the way.
However, there may be things you need to do to help your case.
Such as counseling, maintaining a job, etc.
4. Delaying Legal Representation
Some people wait too long to get a lawyer involved, assuming they have time.
But early legal guidance can make a huge difference.
An attorney can talk to the prosecutor, gather evidence, and protect your rights from the very start.
What to do instead: Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest (and sometimes even before your arrest).
The earlier they’re involved, the better they can help.
5. Ignoring How This Affects the Rest of Your Life
It’s easy to get tunnel vision and focus only on court dates and fines.
But a criminal case impacts more than just the legal system.
It can affect your job, your relationships, your mental health, and more.
What to do instead: Start thinking long term.
Are there steps you can take now to improve your outcome and rebuild trust?
Community service, employment, or counseling can go a long way in court and in life.
Final Thoughts
An arrest is serious, but it doesn’t have to ruin your life.
Avoiding these 5 mistakes can put you in a stronger position to protect your rights and move forward.
Call us today at 260.244.4422 or schedule a consultation online if you are looking to hire an experienced attorney for your criminal case.
Based in Columbia City | Serving Whitley County and all of Northeast Indiana
This post is for educational purposes only and is not meant for specific legal advice.
Learn when you can seal your criminal record in Indiana, including waiting periods for arrests, misdemeanors, and felonies.
Wondering if your Level 6 felony can be reduced to a misdemeanor in Indiana? Learn how alternative misdemeanor sentencing works and when it applies.
Learn how to request a bond reduction in Indiana under IC 35-33-8-5, what counts as “good cause,” and when a judge may deny or lower your bail.
Not sure what to wear to your first court date in Columbia City? Here's what to avoid and how to make the right first impression in Indiana courts.
Worried about jail at your first court date? Learn how to avoid custody at your initial hearing in Indiana by following 5 practical steps.
Learn how speaking to police in Indiana, even when you're innocent, can impact your case. Know your rights before you talk. Protect your future.
Learn when to contact a criminal defense attorney in Columbia City, Indiana - whether you're arrested, charged, or just being questioned by police.
Facing a first DUI in Warsaw, IN? Baber & Baber, P.C. DUI Attorney can help. Call (260) 244-4422 or click here to protect your future.
Learn how a criminal record can impact your job search in Indiana. Understand background checks, hiring rules, and options like expungement.
Learn the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Indiana, including penalties, long-term impact, and what to expect in Columbia City courts.
