Violent Crime & Domestic Battery Defense
Accused of a Violent Crime in Indiana?
A violent crime charge can change your life. Your defense should begin with strategy—not panic.
Whether you have been charged with felony battery, domestic battery, robbery, strangulation, or another violent offense, Indiana prosecutors pursue these cases aggressively. A conviction can result in prison, protective orders, the loss of firearm rights, and a permanent criminal record.
The earlier an experienced criminal defense attorney becomes involved, the more opportunities there may be to protect your rights, challenge the State's evidence, and develop an effective defense strategy.
I represent clients throughout Hendricks County and Central Indiana who are facing serious violent crime allegations. Every case begins with the same questions:
- What actually happened?
- What can the State prove?
- Were your constitutional rights respected?
- What strategy gives you the best opportunity for the best possible outcome?
I Defend Clients Accused of:
- Battery (all misdemeanors and felonies)
- Domestic battery
- Aggravated battery / battery with a deadly weapon
- Strangulation (including domestic incidents)
- Criminal confinement or intimidation
- Armed robbery or attempted robbery
- Resisting law enforcement with force
- Reckless homicide or involuntary manslaughter
- Murder
What’s at Stake in Violent Crime Cases?
Potential consequence can include, but are not limited to:
- Prison time, ranging from 6 months to 20+ years depending on the charge
- Immediate no-contact order with the alleged victim—even if they don’t want it
- Loss of firearm rights under federal law (even for misdemeanor convictions)
- Mandatory domestic violence or anger management counseling
- Negative impact on divorce or child custody proceedings
- Employment consequences, especially in teaching, law enforcement, health care, and public service
- Loss of housing opportunities, particularly in federally funded programs
- Immigration issues for non-citizens, including potential deportation
Every Violent Crime Case Deserves Careful Analysis
A violent crime accusation does not automatically mean the State can prove its case.
Every prosecution depends upon evidence, witness credibility, and the government's ability to prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
My approach includes:
- Thorough review of police reports, body camera footage, and witness statements
- Examination of 911 recordings and physical evidence
- Challenging unconstitutional searches, seizures, and statements
- Identifying inconsistencies in witness testimony
- Evaluating claims of self-defense or defense of others
- Presenting evidence of provocation, mutual combat, or accidental injury
- Negotiating favorable resolutions when they truly serve the client's interests
- Preparing every serious case for trial when necessary
Defending Your Rights, Freedom, and Reputation After a Domestic Battery Arrest
A domestic battery accusation can change your life in an instant. Even if the allegations are exaggerated or completely false, you may be facing jail time, a no-contact order, loss of your gun rights, and a permanent criminal record.
Every domestic battery case has its own facts, relationships, and history. Unfortunately, officers often arrive after an argument has already occurred and are forced to make quick decisions based upon limited information. Those early decisions can have lasting consequences.
Allegations are not convictions.
My job is to carefully examine what actually happened, evaluate the evidence, and protect your rights throughout the process.y.
What Is Domestic Battery in Indiana?
Under Indiana Code § 35-42-2-1.3, domestic battery is defined as intentionally touching a family or household member in a rude, angry, or insolent manner. This includes:
- Spouses or ex-spouses
- Parents of a shared child
- People who live or have lived together
- Those in a dating or sexual relationship
Domestic battery is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor but can be elevated to a Level 6 or Level 5 felony if there are aggravating circumstances such as prior convictions, the presence of a child, or serious injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be charged if there’s no visible injury?
Yes—Indiana law allows charges based on allegations alone, especially in domestic cases.
What if the alleged victim doesn’t want to press charges?
The State can still prosecute. We work to show lack of cooperation and factual support.
Can I claim self-defense?
Absolutely. Indiana law allows force if you reasonably believe it's necessary to protect yourself or another person.
What happens if I violate a no-contact order?
You can face new criminal charges, revoked bond, and jail. We can help you file for modification—but never violate the order directly.
For more tips, check out our guide
"What You Need to Know About Domestic Battery Charges in Indiana"
Why Clients Choose Brian Johnson
Clients facing serious criminal charges need more than courtroom experience.
They need an attorney who will:
- Give an honest assessment of the case.
- Identify legal issues others may overlook.
- Challenge weak evidence and constitutional violations.
- Develop a strategy based on the facts—not assumptions.
- Prepare thoroughly for hearings and trial.
- Recommend the course of action that best protects the client's future.
That is the commitment I make to every client.
Protect Your Future Before the State Builds Its Case
If you have been accused of a violent crime or domestic battery, every decision matters.
Do not assume the police have the full story. Do not assume the prosecutor has all the facts. And do not speak with investigators before understanding your rights.
The earlier I become involved, the more opportunities there may be to preserve evidence, protect your constitutional rights, and develop a strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome.
Call
(317) 718-7000 or contact me online for a free, confidential consultation.
