Internet & Cyber Crimes Defense in Indianapolis
In today’s money-moving, networked world, the line between legitimate online conduct and criminal exposure can be razor-thin. When the stakes are your reputation, livelihood, and liberty, you need a seasoned defender who understands both technological complexity and the law.
At Eskew Law, we stand ready to assist clients facing cyber-related allegations in Indiana.
If you wonder, “What exactly is a cyber crime under Indiana law?” or “How can I defend myself when the prosecution claims hacking or data theft?” you are in the right place. Here, our experienced criminal defense lawyers in Indianapolis answer those questions and explain how we can help with your case.
Contact Eskew Law
Who We Are
Founded more than a decade ago in Indianapolis, Eskew Law has earned a reputation as a boutique firm built on trust, transparency, and results. Our attorneys bring extensive trial experience and personalized representation to clients across Indiana who face serious legal problems.
No matter how advanced the technology or how complex the case, the people behind the charges deserve respect, clarity, and a tough-fought defense.
As one client put it:
“From the beginning, their team was professional, attentive, and genuinely committed to understanding my legal needs.”
When your case involves allegations of unauthorized access, hacking, data theft, phishing, or disruption of computer services, our attorneys bring both legal acumen and technological insight.
Why Focus on Internet & Cyber Crimes
Technology advances quickly. Similarly, the laws and prosecutorial tools used to pursue cyber-related offenses are also subject to scrutiny. Many people charged in this area never thought of themselves as criminals, but one misstep online, one ill-advised message, or one instance of alleged identity theft can lead to severe charges.
In Indiana, crimes involving computers and networks are taken very seriously. A conviction can mean long prison terms, steep fines, damage to your employment prospects, and life-lasting consequences.
At Eskew Law, we focus on cyber-defense because it requires a specialized approach:
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- Understanding how systems work
- How digital evidence is collected and utilized
- How law enforcement investigates online behavior
- How to effectively challenge evidence in court. If you or a loved one is under investigation or charged for a digital-age offense, you deserve counsel that keeps pace with both technology and law.
Common Types of Internet and Cyber Charges in Indiana
Unauthorized Access and Tampering
Under Indiana Code § 35-43-1-8, it is a crime to knowingly or intentionally, and without authorization:
- Disrupt or deny computer system services to an authorized user;
- Destroy, take, or damage equipment or supplies used in a computer system or network;
- Introduce a contaminant (like a virus) into a computer system.
The statute classifies these offenses at various levels, including Level 6 (default felony), Level 5 (loss of at least $750 or fraud, or interruption of public service), and Level 4 (loss exceeding $50,000 or endangering human life).
Hacking, Trespass, and Computer Fraud
The broader “computer crimes” umbrella in Indiana encompasses unauthorized intrusion, the use of a computer to facilitate theft, hacking, and various other offenses.
Identity Theft, Phishing, and Deceptive Acts
In many cases, digital offenses involve stealing personal identifying information, posing as someone else online, phishing schemes, or facilitating fraud through the use of computers. These are aggressively pursued and often paired with other criminal charges.
Cyber-harassment, Cyber-stalking, Revenge Porn
Increasingly, the law is being used to address the misuse of communication technology to harass, threaten, or defame individuals. For example, Indiana’s statutes prohibit sharing intimate images without consent (often known as revenge porn) or harassing another via electronic means.
Federal Exposure
While many cybercrimes are prosecuted at the state level, some conduct triggers federal statutes, such as the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) or the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA). If the crime involves interstate networks, national infrastructure, or large-scale hacking, federal agencies may intervene, and penalties escalate significantly.
Over 75Years
Of Combined
Experience
How We Represent You at Eskew Law
First Step: Listen and Strategize
It begins with a conversation, you tell us your story, we explore the evidence, the government’s case, and the options. We ask questions you may not even have thought of:
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- What data or devices were seized?
- Was there lawful authorization for the search and seizure?
- How was logging or forensic data collected and preserved?
- What technical vulnerabilities might undermine the prosecution’s evidence?
We will explain the law in plain language, including what you face under Indiana statutes, and we will craft a defense strategy personalized to your case.
Evidence Review & Technical Knowledge
Cyber-cases require attention to digital forensics, encompassing servers, logs, network traffic, metadata, chain of custody, and software tools. We work with experts when needed, challenge improper evidence, and scrutinize whether law enforcement followed legal and constitutional rules. The strength of your defense often hinges on that technical scrutiny.
Negotiation Where Appropriate
There are times when negotiation may be in your best interest, reducing charges, minimizing exposure, securing favorable plea terms. We will always assess whether negotiation is safe, or whether going to trial gives you the best chance of a positive outcome.
Trial-Ready Advocacy
If the case must go to court, you’ll have an attorney who is prepared. Eskew Law has handled serious felonies and represented clients in trials and will not shy away from the courtroom when necessary.
Client Communication & Support
Facing cybercrime allegations is stressful. We keep you informed, answer your questions, and help you understand what is happening every step of the way. You will not feel left in the dark; our team is available to guide you.
“Our family has not had a lot of experience with attorneys and was pleasantly surprised by Mr Eskew’s true concern for our family. He is not only a great attorney
“Chris was a great lawyer to have on my side. He met with me very soon after being bonded out, and was very relate-able when it came to explaining what
“They know what they are doing and are very professional. I had a legal concern come up in my business and they were able to address it and solve the
“I hired Chris to represent me for a criminal case for a Class C Felony. I was scared putting my life into the hands of someone I didn’t know. It
“Chris and his staff were by far some of the best!! I have used other lawyers for other services and none of them have kept me informed they way that
“I hired Chris when [the] attorney I had was not representing me the way he should. I had four different cases pending and was facing a lot of time. I
Why Choose Eskew Law for Internet and Cyber Crimes Defense?
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- Focused Criminal Defense Experience: Our core practice encompasses serious technological and property-based offenses, so we are well-equipped to handle complex cases.
- Transparent and Honest Approach: We emphasize honesty from the outset. We will tell you what your best defenses are, possible risks, and likely outcomes.
- Indiana-Wide Scope: Located in Indianapolis, we serve clients across Indiana, including in counties surrounding Marion County and beyond.
- Results-Driven Representation: Our clients cite our responsiveness, professionalism, and successful outcomes.
- Personalized Strategy: No two cases are alike. We tailor our defense plan to your specific facts, technology involved, and legal exposure.
As the founding attorney states:
“We focus on getting you the answers you need and the resolution you deserve.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am contacted by law enforcement about a cyber-crime investigation?
Immediately contact an attorney. Do not speak to investigators without legal counsel; you have rights and silence is often the wise choice. Early legal representation can affect evidence collection and your defense options.
Can online messages or chats be used as evidence against me?
Yes. Electronic communications, chat logs, social media posts, and metadata can all be used by prosecutors. We will analyze whether any such evidence was lawfully collected and challenge its authenticity if warranted.
Could I face charges from both the state and federal levels?
Yes. If the alleged offense crosses state lines, involves federal systems or agencies, or triggers federal statutes, you could face both state and federal exposure. This significantly raises the stakes and elevates the importance of experienced counsel.
What are the potential penalties for cyber crimes in Indiana?
Penalties vary widely depending on the statute, the value of the loss, whether human safety is impacted, and whether the offense was part of a larger fraud scheme. For example, under § 35-43-1-8: Level 6 felony (default), Level 5 if loss ≥ $750 or fraud, Level 4 if loss ≥ $50,000 or endangers life. Additional statutes may carry longer terms or higher fines.
Is it possible to avoid a conviction or reduce penalties?
Yes. A strong defense may result in dismissal, reduced charges, diversion, or favorable plea terms. Challenging evidence, negotiating early, and having a realistic strategy are key elements in achieving success.
At Eskew Law, we explore all available avenues.
What to Look for When Choosing an Attorney
Local Insight: Cyber Crimes Defense in Indianapolis
Indiana’s legal system takes computer and internet offenses very seriously, and the prosecutors in Marion County and across the state are aware of the technical landscape. As a law firm located in Indianapolis, we are familiar with the local courts, judges, prosecutors, and the types of cyber-crime matters that arise in our region. Whether you are charged in Indianapolis or in surrounding counties, you benefit from representation that knows the local environment.
Digital conduct in Indianapolis, including local business networks, municipalities, and public-service infrastructure, may trigger enhanced scrutiny or special units. That means you need a law firm that is not just nationally informed but locally grounded. At Eskew Law, we combine cutting-edge cyber-law knowledge with established credentials in the Indianapolis criminal courts.
Your Next Step: Get Representation That Matches the Moment
If you are under investigation or have already been charged with an internet or cyber-related crime, time is of the essence. Evidence can be altered or lost, logs may be erased, and the window for meaningful defense can shrink fast. Don’t wait. Let us help you understand your rights, evaluate the case, and begin building your defense.
At Eskew Law we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your situation. We listen first, explain your options, and let you decide how you want to move forward. If you are seeking a defense attorney in Indianapolis, IN who knows cyber crimes and fights for you, contact us today.
Call 317-793-2325 or visit eskewlaw.com to schedule a consultation with our criminal defense team.
Final Thoughts
Technology does not excuse mistakes, nor does it excuse prosecution. Yet many clients charged with cyber offenses often feel overwhelmed by the complexity of the allegations, the digital evidence, and the fear for their future. At Eskew Law, we stand by clients who want to fight back.
We believe in clear communication, strategic thinking, and dedicated defense. If you need an Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer, we are here to serve you. Let us help you protect your rights, your reputation, and your future.
