Ziemer Law, LLC: Compassionate and Skilled Family and Criminal Defense Attorneys in Evansville, Indiana

Comprehensive Family Law Services in Evansville

When legal challenges arise in family or criminal law, having an experienced and dedicated attorney by your side can make all the difference. Ziemer Law, LLC, led by Jay Ziemer, is a trusted name in family law Evansville Indiana and criminal defense, serving clients throughout Evansville and surrounding counties with personalized legal representation and unwavering commitment.

Divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, and other complex family matters require thoughtful guidance and experienced advocacy. As a leading evansville divorce attorney, Jay Ziemer handles both contested and uncontested divorces with a focus on resolving conflicts smoothly and protecting his clients’ rights and interests.

Clients searching for family law attorney Evansville Indiana or family attorneys near me find that Ziemer Law offers comprehensive assistance, including:

• Child custody and visitation arrangements
• Child support calculation and enforcement
• Spousal support and alimony negotiation
• Paternity and parental rights issues
• Modifications of custody or support orders
• Legal protections such as restraining order in Indiana processes
• Advocacy for grandparent rights Indiana, ensuring grandparents can maintain meaningful relationships with their grandchildren under the law

Jay Ziemer personally handles all cases without passing clients off to associates, ensuring personalized attention and continuity through every stage of the case.

Trusted Criminal Defense for Evansville Residents

Facing criminal charges can be overwhelming due to the complex legal system and potential consequences on your future. Ziemer Law offers seasoned representation as a dedicated criminal defense attorney, providing aggressive and skilled defense for misdemeanor and felony cases alike.

When searching for a criminal defense attorney Evansville Indiana or a criminal lawyer near me, clients benefit from Jay Ziemer’s extensive courtroom experience, including work as an assistant public defender and his history of litigating jury trials, as well as his nuanced understanding of local courts.

Areas of criminal defense include:

• DUI/DWI and traffic violations
• Drug possession and trafficking charges
• Theft, burglary, and property crimes
• Weapons offenses
• Sentence modifications, probation violations, and expungements
• Diversion programs and alternative sentencing options

An important aspect of Ziemer Law’s defense strategy is protecting clients’ constitutional rights by investigating improperly obtained evidence and pursuing motions to suppress when appropriate. This diligent approach often leads to dismissed charges or reduced sentences.

Why Clients Choose Ziemer Law, LLC

Ziemer Law offers a unique combination of deep legal knowledge, practical experience, and compassionate client service. Key reasons clients seek out their help include:

• Over 25+ years of legal experience in family and criminal law
• Personalized case management where Jay Ziemer remains your direct attorney
• In-depth knowledge of Evansville family courts and criminal justice system
• Aggressive defense tactics balanced with strategic negotiation skills
• Reputation for respectful, clear communication and accessibility
• Commitment to minimizing client stress and achieving favorable outcomes

Whether you’re seeking a divorce lawyer near me, lawyers Evansville, or experienced criminal lawyers in Evansville Indiana, Ziemer Law is a trusted firm dedicated to protecting your rights and future.

Understanding the Divorce Process in Indiana

Divorce proceedings can be emotionally taxing. Clients often search for reliable guidance on divorce in Indiana to understand their legal rights, financial implications, and parenting arrangements.

Jay Ziemer provides a transparent explanation of the process, working closely with clients to manage expectations, build strong case strategies, and advocate for fair division of assets and reasonable spousal support.

Expungement Services to Help You Move Forward

One of the many legal relief options Ziemer Law offers is expungement in Indiana—a critical service that allows certain criminal records to be sealed or removed, opening doors for employment, housing, and education opportunities blocked by past mistakes.

Clients searching for expungement or lawyers near me turn to Ziemer Law for comprehensive support throughout the petition process, ensuring compliance with Indiana’s legal requirements and increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Serving Evansville and Surrounding Counties

Ziemer Law’s service extends beyond the city limits to Vanderburgh County, Warrick, Posey, Gibson, and surrounding areas. This broad geographic reach coupled with local expertise makes the firm a top choice for residents and families seeking trusted legal representation.

How to Contact Ziemer Law

If you need a knowledgeable attorney in Evansville Indiana for family law or criminal defense, Ziemer Law offers a free consultation to discuss your case and explore the best path forward.

Contact Jay Ziemer at:

• Address: 4601 Bayard Park Dr, Evansville, IN 47714
• Phone: (812) 568-4118
• Email: jay@ziemerlaw.com

Don’t navigate legal challenges alone. Whether you are looking for a solid family lawyers or a tenacious criminal defense attorney, Ziemer Law provides the skill, integrity, and personal attention you deserve.

Expert Criminal Defense and Family Law Services in Evansville, Indiana

When facing legal challenges that impact your freedom or family, having an experienced advocate is crucial. At Ziemer Law, LLC, located in Evansville, Indiana, clients receive personalized, dedicated attention from Jay Ziemer—a seasoned criminal defense attorney and trusted Evansville divorce attorney with over 25 years of legal experience. Whether you need expert defense against criminal charges or compassionate guidance through family law matters, Ziemer Law is the resource you want on your side.

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Criminal Defense Attorney in Evansville You Can Rely On

Facing criminal charges can be daunting, whether it involves misdemeanors, felonies, or DUI-related offenses. Choosing a skilled criminal defense attorney familiar with Indiana’s legal landscape significantly affects your case outcome. At Ziemer Law, we handle a wide spectrum of criminal matters including:

• DUI/DWI and OWI cases
• Drug possession and distribution charges
• Theft, burglary, and property crimes
• Assault and domestic violence
• Probation violations and sentence modifications

Jay Ziemer leverages his extensive trial experience and in-depth knowledge to build strong defenses that protect your rights and freedoms. An effective criminal defense attorney knows how to challenge improper procedures, exclude unlawfully obtained evidence, and negotiate favorable plea agreements.

When legal pressure mounts and stakes are high, trust an attorney who answers their own calls, communicates openly, and fights tirelessly for you.

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Comprehensive Family Law Services in Evansville, Indiana

Family law matters demand sensitivity and precision. As an experienced family law Evansville Indiana firm, Ziemer Law understands the emotional weight of issues such as divorce, child custody, child support, and spousal maintenance. Jay Ziemer personally handles each family law case, guiding clients through:

• Divorce litigation and uncontested divorces
• Parenting plans and custody agreements
• Child and spousal support calculations and modifications
• Paternity suits and grandparents’ visitation rights
• Protective orders and juvenile matters

Hiring a qualified Evansville divorce attorney relieves much of the stress and uncertainty surrounding family law disputes. Legal clarity and personalized solutions prevail when you choose a lawyer committed to your best outcome.

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Finding Family Attorneys Near Me in Evansville

Many clients search for family attorneys near me hoping to find someone local who understands the unique dynamics of their community. Being based in Evansville, Ziemer Law offers deep knowledge of Vanderburgh County courts, judges, and local procedures. This insight allows for practical, strategic legal guidance precisely tuned to your case environment.

Whether navigating complicated custody hearings or negotiating divorce settlements, local familiarity benefits every step of your journey.

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Attorney Near Me Family Law: Why Local Experience Matters

Google searches like “attorney near me family law” often bring up many options, but choosing one with proven local experience like Jay Ziemer is essential. Having litigated for over two decades in Evansville, he balances rigorous legal skill with personal attention and accessibility. No case is handed off to associates; you deal directly with the attorney of record, ensuring consistent advocacy and trust.

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The Ramifications of a Criminal Charge and Why Defense Matters

A criminal conviction’s effects reach far beyond fines or jail time. It can hinder employment prospects, housing opportunities, education, and more. That’s why it’s vital to hire a proactive criminal defense attorney who understands these implications and builds robust defenses to mitigate or eliminate charges.

At Ziemer Law, LLC, every challenge is met with a commitment to:

• Hold prosecutors to the high burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt
• Identify and object to unlawful searches and evidence gathering
• File motions to suppress evidence when appropriate
• Push for alternative sentencing such as probation, drug court, or rehabilitation programs as suitable

Even clients who believe they are guilty often see case improvements and better outcomes by working with an experienced defense lawyer.

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Why Choose Ziemer Law for Your Evansville Legal Needs?

• Personalized representation: Jay Ziemer manages your case from start to finish, no handing off to unacquainted staff.
• Extensive experience: Over 25 years fighting criminal and family law cases in Evansville and surrounding counties.
• Proven results: Many satisfied clients citing relief from charges, clear custody resolutions, and effective defense strategies.
• Compassionate counsel: Understanding the emotional impacts of family breakdown and criminal charges.
• Responsive communication: Timely responses to calls and emails, flexible scheduling, and unwavering support.

Ziemer Law’s highly regarded reputation in Evansville stems from delivering real results with integrity and professionalism.

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How to Get Help: Your First Step with Ziemer Law

If you or a loved one is facing legal challenges in Evansville, don’t hesitate to seek expert help. Call Ziemer Law for a free consultation and discover how an experienced Evansville divorce attorney or criminal defense attorney can guide you through difficult times.

Learn more about why you need a dedicated Indiana criminal law lawyer here:
https://www.ziemerlaw.com/why-you-need-a-indiana-criminal-lawyer/

Divorce in Indiana: How Ziemer Law Can Help You Navigate the Process

Divorce is one of life’s most challenging transitions, often fraught with emotional and financial complexities. If you are facing a divorce in Indiana and need compassionate yet skilled legal support, the experienced team at Ziemer Law is here to guide you through every step. Whether you are searching for a divorce lawyer near me or looking for the best divorce lawyer in Indiana, Ziemer Law offers personalized attention and effective representation designed to protect your rights and interests.

Understanding Divorce in Indiana

In Indiana, divorce is legally known as the “dissolution of marriage.” Indiana recognizes both no-fault divorces, mostly based on an irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, and limited fault-based divorces in rare cases. At least one spouse must have lived in the state for six months, and in the county for at least three months before filing.

Indiana also has a mandatory 60-day waiting period between filing and finalizing the divorce. This “cooling-off” period allows time for reflection, temporarily prevents rushed decisions, and often encourages settlement.

Why Choose Ziemer Law as Your Divorce Attorney?

Experienced and Compassionate Representation

Jay Ziemer, the principal attorney at Ziemer Law, brings over 25 years of experience handling divorce and family law cases. He understands the intense stress that divorce brings and provides expert guidance tailored to your unique circumstances. You will work directly with Jay throughout your case—no passing you to an associate—ensuring personalized attention and a lawyer who truly knows your story.

Comprehensive Family Law Services

Ziemer Law handles all aspects of family law, including:

• Divorce litigation—contested and uncontested
• Child custody and parenting time agreements
• Child support and spousal support arrangements
• Division of marital property and finances
• Paternity and juvenile legal matters

Jay takes a no-nonsense, results-oriented approach while maintaining professionalism and integrity, helping clients find the best path forward.

Strong Advocacy in Criminal and DUI Defense

In addition to family law, Ziemer Law provides skilled defense in criminal cases, including DUI and drug charges—a valuable resource if your situation includes intersecting legal matters.

How Ziemer Law Makes Divorce Easier

• Clear communication: Frequent updates, prompt responses to phone calls and emails, and flexible appointment scheduling.
• Strategic negotiation: Encouraging mediation and settlement where possible to reduce costs and emotional strain.
• Courtroom skill: When litigation is necessary, Jay’s deep courtroom experience ensures your case is presented effectively.
• Personalized attention: Jay’s solo practice model fosters a close attorney-client relationship, crucial in emotionally charged cases.

Protecting Your Rights and Your Future

Navigating divorce requires more than legal knowledge— it requires empathy and strategic planning. Ziemer Law helps clients understand complex issues like child custody, equitable property division, and support obligations while seeking to minimize conflict and foster stability.

Contact the Best Divorce Lawyer in Indiana Today

If you are facing divorce or need advice on any family law matter in Evansville, Vanderburgh County, or neighboring areas, don’t hesitate to contact Ziemer Law for a free consultation. Protect your rights and secure your future with expert guidance from one of Indiana’s most trusted family law and divorce attorneys.

The Legal Battle for Independence: A Guide to Emancipation in Indiana

For some teenagers, the path to independence is more than just turning 18—it’s a legal journey. Emancipation in Indiana is the process by which a minor can petition the court to be legally considered an adult, giving them the authority to make their own decisions regarding their health, finances, and living situation, without parental consent.

While it’s a serious and life-changing step, it’s not a decision the courts take lightly. If you or a young person you know is considering this path, it’s crucial to understand the legal requirements and have a skilled family law attorney by your side. At Ziemer Law, we have experience assisting families and young individuals in navigating these complex and sensitive proceedings.

The Criteria for Emancipation in Indiana

The state of Indiana has specific legal criteria that a minor must meet to be considered for emancipation. The court’s primary focus is always on the best interests of the minor, and they will want to see clear evidence that the minor is mature and capable of handling adult responsibilities.

To file a petition, the minor must be at least 16 years old. Beyond that, the court will consider several key factors, including:

• Financial Independence: The minor must prove they can financially support themselves. This includes covering all living expenses, such as housing, food, and medical care. The court will require evidence of a stable source of income.
• Education: The minor must show that they are either a high school graduate, have a GED, or are enrolled in a program to complete their education.
• Maturity and Responsibility: The court will evaluate the minor’s ability to make adult decisions. This often involves looking at their living situation, personal history, and overall life choices. The minor must demonstrate that they have a stable and appropriate living arrangement.
• Best Interests of the Minor: The most important factor for the court is determining if emancipation is in the minor’s best interest. This can be a high legal bar to meet, and it’s where having an experienced attorney becomes invaluable.

The Role of a Family Law Attorney

The process of seeking emancipation in Indiana is not a simple one, and attempting to navigate it without legal representation can be overwhelming. A seasoned attorney in family law can make all the difference.

Our role as your legal advocate includes:

1. Filing the Petition: We will ensure all the necessary paperwork is completed accurately and filed with the court, which is a critical first step.
2. Gathering Evidence: We will help you compile the proof needed to demonstrate your financial independence, educational status, and overall maturity to the court.
3. Representing You in Court: We will present your case to the judge, articulating why emancipation is in your best interest and addressing any concerns the court may have.
4. Mediating with Parents: In some cases, we can work with parents to reach an agreement, which can make the process smoother and less contentious.

Emancipation is a serious and life-altering legal step. Whether you’re in Evansville, Boonville, Princeton, or the surrounding areas, Ziemer Law offers experienced legal guidance for individuals and families facing these unique legal challenges. If you are a minor considering this path or a parent with questions, contact our office today. We are the family lawyers near me who are ready to provide the compassionate and knowledgeable legal assistance you need.

Grandparent Rights in Indiana: When You Need an Advocate

Grandparents often play a critical role in a child’s life, providing love, support, and stability. However, when family dynamics shift due to divorce, a parent’s death, or other difficult circumstances, these vital relationships can be strained or even severed. If you are a grandparent in this situation, you may be wondering what your legal options are.

In Indiana, the law recognizes the importance of these bonds, and in certain situations, provides a legal path for grandparents to seek visitation or even custody. However, the legal standards are strict, and navigating them requires the help of a dedicated family law attorney. At Ziemer Law, our team of experienced family lawyers understands the intricacies of grandparent rights in Indiana and is committed to advocating for your relationship with your grandchild.

When Can Grandparents Seek Visitation Rights?

Indiana law gives a grandparent the legal standing to petition for visitation in limited circumstances. Unlike parents, who have a fundamental right to be involved in their child’s life, grandparents must prove that a specific legal event has occurred that justifies court intervention.

In Indiana, a grandparent may petition for visitation rights if one of the following is true:

• The child’s parents are divorced. This is one of the most common scenarios. If the parents’ marriage has been dissolved in Indiana, a grandparent can ask the court for visitation rights, especially if their access has been restricted since the divorce.
• A parent of the child is deceased. If one of the child’s parents has passed away, the parents of the deceased parent (the grandparents) can petition for visitation.
• The child was born out of wedlock. In these cases, the law allows a grandparent to petition for visitation. If the petition is from a paternal grandparent, however, paternity must first be legally established.

In all of these situations, the court will only grant visitation if it is determined to be in the “best interests of the child.” This is a high legal bar, and the court will give significant weight to the wishes of a fit parent. An attorney experienced in family law in Evansville, Indiana will help you build a strong case by providing evidence of your pre-existing relationship with the child and demonstrating the benefits of maintaining that bond.

Seeking Custody: A Higher Legal Standard

While visitation is a more common pursuit, there are situations where a grandparent may believe that the child’s well-being is at risk, and that custody is necessary. This is a much more difficult and complex legal battle, as the court operates under the presumption that a biological parent has a superior right to custody.

A grandparent seeking custody must present “clear and convincing evidence” that the parent is unfit or that extraordinary circumstances exist that would make it in the child’s best interest to live with the grandparent. This might include instances of:

• Parental neglect or abuse.
• Substance abuse issues by the parent.
• Abandonment of the child.
• The parent’s inability to provide a safe and stable home.

Why You Need a Family Law Advocate

Whether you’re fighting for visitation or custody, navigating grandparent rights in Indiana is a challenging and emotional process. It requires a deep understanding of state law, court procedures, and the ability to present a compelling case to a judge. An experienced attorney in family law can make all the difference by:

• Evaluating Your Case: We’ll assess your unique situation and determine if you meet the legal criteria to seek visitation or custody.
• Gathering Evidence: We will help you compile all necessary documentation, including records of your relationship with the child, and help you prepare for court.
• Providing Strategic Representation: Our lawyers in Evansville and other areas like attorneys in Boonville, Indiana, will skillfully represent your interests in court, fighting to protect your rights and the welfare of your grandchild.

If you are a grandparent who has been unfairly cut out of your grandchild’s life, you don’t have to face this challenge alone. Contact Ziemer Law today to learn how we can help you advocate for the relationships that matter most.

A Clean Slate: Understanding the Expungement Process in Indiana

A past mistake shouldn’t define your future. Unfortunately, a criminal record can have long-lasting consequences, creating barriers to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. The good news is that for many individuals, Indiana law provides a pathway to a fresh start through a legal process known as expungement.

At Ziemer Law, we believe in second chances. Our experienced team, led by a dedicated criminal defense attorney, helps clients navigate the complex legal requirements to clear their records and move forward with their lives.

What is an Expungement in Indiana?

An expungement in Indiana is a legal procedure that allows certain criminal records to be sealed from public view. When a record is expunged, it’s as if the crime never occurred in the eyes of the law. For all intents and purposes, you can legally state on a job or housing application that you have no criminal history regarding the expunged offense.

This process is a lifeline for individuals who have paid their debt to society and are ready to leave their past behind.

Who is Eligible for Expungement?

Indiana has specific eligibility requirements based on the type and severity of the crime, as well as the amount of time that has passed since the conviction. There are different legal sections for expunging different types of offenses, including:

• Misdemeanors: After a waiting period of five years, most misdemeanors are eligible for expungement, provided there are no other new convictions.
• Low-level Felonies: Certain Level 6 felonies are eligible for expungement after a waiting period of eight years.
• Major Felonies: The waiting period for more serious felony convictions is even longer, and eligibility can depend on the nature of the crime.

It’s important to note that you must meet all the legal requirements, including having no new arrests or convictions during the waiting period and paying all fines, fees, and restitution. The process is not automatic, and a judge has the final say.

The Benefits of Expunging Your Record

Clearing your record through expungement can unlock a world of new opportunities:

• Improved Job Prospects: Many employers conduct background checks. An expunged record can prevent a past mistake from costing you a job.
• Access to Housing: Landlords often run background checks as part of their screening process. Expungement can broaden your housing options.
• Restored Rights: In some cases, expungement can restore certain rights, such as the right to own a firearm.
• Peace of Mind: Perhaps most importantly, expungement offers a sense of closure and the ability to move forward without the stigma of a past conviction.

How a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help

The legal process for expungement is intricate and requires meticulous attention to detail. An error in your petition could lead to a denial, forcing you to wait a full year before you can re-file.

As your trusted criminal lawyer near me, Ziemer Law will:

• Determine Your Eligibility: We will carefully review your criminal history to determine which, if any, of your offenses are eligible for expungement under Indiana law.
• Prepare and File the Petition: We will handle all the necessary paperwork, ensuring that your petition is filed correctly and includes all the required documentation.
• Represent You in Court: If necessary, we will represent you at your expungement hearing, advocating on your behalf to the judge.

Don’t let a past mistake hold you back from a brighter future. If you are a resident of Indiana and are ready for a clean slate, contact Ziemer Law today. Our experienced defense attorney team is ready to provide the legal guidance and support you need to navigate the expungement process successfully.