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Andrew L. Bennett

Andrew L. Bennett

Bennett & Catsadimas, P.C.
  • Criminal Law, DUI & DWI, Traffic Tickets ...
  • Indiana
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Biography

I am an experienced criminal trial attorney, with over 22 years practicing law, including felony trials for Reckless Homicide. The majority of those years were spent as a deputy prosecuting attorney where I concentrated on OWI cases including OWI Causing Death cases.

In my capacity as a deputy prosecuting attorney I would routinely go to crash scenes at all hours of the day or night. Many times throughout the year I would conduct training for law enforcement officers. This has provided me with a keen insight into and knowledge of the criminal justice system.

This passion to do my best and put the hours needed into a case is now brought to defending my clients in Northwest Indiana including the counties of Lake, Porter, La Porte, St. Joseph, Newton, Jasper, Starke and Marshall in a variety of criminal cases including misdemeanors and complex felonies.

I rely upon my honesty and integrity, presenting the facts in a straight forward manner. I strive to maintain a strong rapport with my clients, other legal professionals and the bench. I would like to put my knowledge, experience & dedication to work for you.

Practice Areas
    Criminal Law
    Criminal Appeals, Drug Crimes, Expungement, Fraud, Gun Crimes, Internet Crimes, Sex Crimes, Theft, Violent Crimes
    DUI & DWI
    Traffic Tickets
    Suspended License
    Domestic Violence
    Domestic Violence Criminal Defense, Domestic Violence Restraining Orders
    White Collar Crime
Additional Practice Areas
  • Specialized Driving Privileges
  • Expungements
Fees
  • Free Consultation
  • Credit Cards Accepted
  • Rates, Retainers and Additional Information
    I do offer flexible payment plans that work with your budget.
Jurisdictions Admitted to Practice
Indiana
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Languages
  • English: Spoken, Written
Professional Experience
Bennett & Catsadimas, P.C.
Current
Education
Valparaiso University School of Law
J.D. | Law
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Ball State University
B.S. (1994) | Political Science, Psychology, Business
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Awards
Client's Choice Award
Avvo`
Professional Associations
Indiana State Bar  # 20788-45
Member
Current
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Lake County Bar Association
- Current
Activities: Criminal Defense section
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Porter County Bar Association
- Current
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American Inns of Court, Calumet Council
Master of the Bench
- Current
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Speaking Engagements
Prosecutor Perspective in OWI cases and substance abuse treatment, Fall Conference, Nashville, IN
Panel discussion for Introduction to Courts, Ivy Tech College
Panel discussion on Criminal Justice System, the role of the Police, Prosecutor and Defense Attorney, Criminal Law class
Ivy Tech College
Websites & Blogs
Website
Andrew L. Bennett's Website Profile
Website
Bennett & Catsadimas, P.C. Website
Website
Legal Answers
682 Questions Answered
Q. I was arrested last Sept. 22 ,two F 6's, poss. charges. I am, on March 20, 2023, just being arrained. Is this legal?
A: The State has 48 hours to have charges filed and probable cause to be determined by a judge or magistrate. Since you bonded out the time requirement no longer applies. The State has five years from your arrest date to file charges.
Q. First time level 6 felony , what amount of jailtime. Or can.probation be an alternative to jail.
A: A level 6 felony has a penalty range of 6 months to 2 1/2 years in jail or prison. However, the incarceration for the person can be suspended and placed on probation. Rehab will not lessen the penalty per se but is a mitigating factor in determining the appropriate sentence.
Q. Should i plead guilty? no contest? or ask for infraction deferral?
A: Pleading guilty will add significant points to your record. Also, a no contest is really a plea of guilty in disguise, same effect. If the prosecutor offers an infraction deferral, that would keep the conviction and points off your record. If they do not offer the deferral, then you should consult with an attorney, he/she may be able to get you a better deal than pleading to the charge, even if it costs a few hundred more than paying the ticket, in the long run with insurance, etc. it will be money well spent.
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Contact & Map
Bennett & Catsadimas, P.C.
205 E Jefferson Street
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Telephone: (219) 228-8886
Fax: (219) 228-8626
Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM (Today)
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed