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One legal choice can add years to a sentence, and we unpack exactly how that happens. We walk through how Indiana courts decide whether multiple convictions run at the same time or one after another, using simple, real-world examples that turn abstract rules into clear outcomes. You’ll hear why a three, five, and ten year set can be either ten years or eighteen, and what levers actually move a judge toward concurrency or stacking.

We go deep on Indiana’s framework: the presumption that multiple sentences run concurrently, the requirement to state specific aggravators to stack, and the powerful single episode of criminal conduct rule that caps consecutive time when crimes are tightly connected in time, place, and circumstance. Then we contrast it with federal sentencing under 18 USC 3584, where the default often tilts the other way and the defense must fight for concurrent orders. That state–federal split changes strategy, leverage, and expectations from day one.

From there, we break down the factors that tip the scales: criminal history, victim vulnerability, injury, and weapons use on one side; cooperation, remorse, treatment, employment, and community ties on the other. We also tackle the practical questions clients ask most: how plea agreements can lock in concurrent terms, why sentences from different counties often stack unless you negotiate a global resolution, and how to build a mitigation record that makes concurrency feel both fair and sensible. If you or someone you love is facing multiple charges in Indiana, this is a clear roadmap to the rules, the risks, and the strategies that can reclaim years.

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The Law Office of Mark Nicholson

The Nicholson Nugget

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Attorney Mark Nicholson examines an off-duty stop in New Castle, Indiana, and tests the officer’s claims against available video. We explain why “being dumb at the light” fails as probable cause and outline what the footage suggests about the use of force and credibility.

• off-duty stop premised on non-specific conduct
• why “being dumb at the light” is not probable cause
• absence of body camera and credibility gaps
• Facebook video showing the suspect in the vehicle
• potential unlawful seizure and force implications
• what a probable cause affidavit should include
• open questions about the dash cam and the procedure
• legal takeaways for drivers and officers

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Here are links to my website and other social media.

The Law Office of Mark Nicholson

The Nicholson Nugget

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TikTok: thebatteryman

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Court feels like a foreign country the first time you step in, and the initial hearing is your passport control. We break down what actually happens at an Indiana initial hearing—what the judge does, what you need to say (and not say), and why a not guilty plea is usually the smartest opening move. No drama, no surprise evidence dumps—just a clean start that protects your rights and sets the timeline for your case.

We walk through the essentials: formal notice of charges, advisement of rights, and how the court handles counsel—whether you hire privately or qualify for a public defender. You’ll learn how bail and pretrial release conditions are set, which factors judges weigh, and why no contact orders are common in cases like battery or theft. We explain how a single violation can revoke release or even spawn a new case, and we share practical etiquette—business casual attire, arriving early, addressing the judge properly—so you step in prepared and composed.

Listeners also get straight answers to the biggest questions: Can a case be dismissed at arraignment? Why is that rare? What happens if you miss court and a warrant issues? How much do you actually need to speak? And how long does the process take from the moment you’re in custody to your first appearance? By the end, you’ll understand the process, avoid costly mistakes, and know how to help your attorney build leverage through discovery, motions, and careful compliance with release terms.

If this helped demystify your first court date, follow the show, share it with someone who needs it, and leave a quick review so others can find it. Your support helps more people walk into court ready and informed.

Here are links to my website and other social media.

The Law Office of Mark Nicholson

The Nicholson Nugget

YouTube

Facebook

Instagram

TikTok: thebatteryman