Misdemeanor & Felony Defense in Whitley County and Northeast Indiana

Zach Baber • February 17, 2026

Experienced Criminal Defense Representation at Every Level

Courthouse and legal documents representing misdemeanor and felony defense in Whitley County, Indiana

If you’ve been charged with a crime, whether it’s labeled a misdemeanor or a felony, the situation is serious.

The terminology may differ. The potential penalties may differ.

But the reality is the same: your record, your freedom, your reputation, and your future are on the line.

At Baber & Baber, P.C., we represent individuals charged with all levels of misdemeanors and felonies in Whitley County and throughout Northeast Indiana.

Our approach is steady, strategic, and grounded in decades of courtroom experience.

Understanding the Difference: Misdemeanor vs. Felony

Indiana classifies criminal offenses primarily into two categories:

1. Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are generally considered less severe than felonies, but they are far from minor.

A conviction can still result in:

Jail time
Probation
Fines and court costs
License suspension
A permanent criminal record

Common misdemeanor charges may include:

OWI/DUI (first offenses in some cases)
Battery
Theft
Possession of controlled substances
Disorderly conduct
Driving-related offenses

A misdemeanor conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.

2. Felonies

Felonies carry more significant potential penalties and longer-lasting consequences.

In Indiana, felony charges are categorized into levels, each with different sentencing ranges.

Felony charges may include:

Drug offenses
Repeat OWI offenses
Serious battery or assault
Burglary or theft-related offenses
Firearm-related offenses

Felony convictions can result in:

Substantial prison exposure
Extended probation
Loss of certain civil rights
Long-term impact on career opportunities

Regardless of level, a felony charge should never be taken lightly.

What Matters Most: How the Case Is Handled

The classification of the charge is only part of the equation.

What often matters more is:

The specific facts of the case
The strength of the evidence
Whether your rights were violated
How the case is presented and negotiated
Local court procedures and expectations

Not every case is fought the same way.

Some require aggressive motion practice.

Others require strategic negotiation.

Some should go to trial. Others should not.

The key is understanding which path fits the facts, not reacting emotionally or rushing decisions.

Our Approach to Criminal Defense

At Baber & Baber, P.C., we focus on:

1. Careful Review of the Evidence

We examine police reports, witness statements, body camera footage, and forensic results when applicable.

2. Identifying Legal Issues

Was the stop lawful?
Was the search valid?
Were procedures followed correctly?

Legal mistakes can change the direction of a case.

3. Strategic Case Planning

Every case requires a tailored approach. That may include:

Filing motions
Negotiating reductions
Seeking alternative sentencing options
Preparing for trial when necessary

4. Managing Real-Life Consequences

Criminal charges often affect:

Driving privileges
Employment
Professional licenses
Family stability

We help clients navigate those issues alongside the court process, not after the damage is done.

Why Local Experience Matters

Criminal cases are influenced by more than statutes.

They are influenced by:

Local court practices
Prosecutorial policies
Judicial expectations

What works in one county may not work in another.

With decades of experience practicing in Whitley County and throughout Northeast Indiana, we understand how cases move locally and how to prepare accordingly.

Early Decisions Matter

One of the most common mistakes people make after being charged with a crime is assuming:

“It’s just a misdemeanor.”
“It’s my first offense.”
“It will probably just get worked out.”

Even misdemeanor charges can carry serious, long-term consequences.

And early missteps (missing court dates, speaking without counsel, violating bond conditions) can make matters worse.

The earlier you understand your position, the more options may be available.

Protecting Your Future

A criminal charge does not automatically define your future, but how you respond to it can.

In some cases, long-term planning may include:

Minimizing record impact
Protecting employment
Considering future expungement eligibility

The goal is not just to resolve the immediate case, but to protect what comes after it.

Criminal Defense Representation in Whitley County & Northeast Indiana

If you have been charged with a misdemeanor or felony in Whitley County or surrounding areas, having experienced legal guidance matters.

At Baber & Baber, P.C., we represent clients at all levels of criminal charges with a steady, practical approach focused on clarity and strategy.

If you would like to discuss your situation and understand your options, call us at 260.244.4422 (phones answered 24/7 by an attorney), or click here to schedule an appointment online.

< Older Post