Charles Hayes

Charles Hayes is a seasoned trial attorney and partner at Hayes Ruemmele LLC, where he focuses on criminal defense, personal injury, and civil rights litigation. Known for his tenacity in both state and federal courtrooms, Charles has successfully defended clients against serious felony charges, including homicide, sex offenses, and high-level drug crimes, achieving numerous acquittals in complex jury trials.

A native of Northern Indiana, Charles earned his Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from the University of Notre Dame in 2000 before obtaining his Juris Doctor from Indiana University’s Maurer School of Law in 2003. He also completed advanced training through the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (NACDL) White Collar College at Stetson University and the Indiana Public Defender Council Trial Institute, sharpening his courtroom advocacy and defense strategy skills.

Charles began his legal career at the Marion County Public Defender Agency, where he devoted seven years to public service, including five years specializing in major felony defense. His deep commitment to justice led him to co-found Sweeney Hayes LLC in 2014, which evolved into Hayes Ruemmele LLC. Over the years, he has continued to expand his practice, representing clients in both state and federal courts across Indiana and neighboring jurisdictions.

In addition to criminal defense, Charles Hayes represents plaintiffs in personal injury, police misconduct, and sexual abuse cases. He also handles Title IX and school negligence claims, advocating for victims’ rights and institutional accountability. Licensed to practice in Indiana and multiple federal courts, including the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, he remains dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of every client he serves.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Hayes Ruemmelle LLC
• Member, Indiana State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Indiana

Education

• Indiana University at Bloomington School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Notre Dame
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
  

Awards & Badges