Craig V. Braje

Craig V. Braje is an attorney at Braje, Nelson & Janes, LLP in Michigan City, Indiana. He handles civil and criminal litigation and represents clients in personal injury, commercial law, real estate law, family law, and medical malpractice matters. His practice serves individuals, families, and businesses facing disputes, claims, property concerns, and legal problems that require experienced advocacy and practical guidance.

Mr. Braje earned a B.A. from Western Illinois University in 1971 and a J.D. from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1974. His legal education, together with his early bar admissions in Indiana and Illinois, provides a strong foundation for litigation, negotiation, and problem solving. This background supports his ability to evaluate complex facts, prepare cases, and advise clients across varied civil and criminal matters.

Mr. Braje has built his practice through decades of public and private legal service. He served as corporation counsel for the City of Michigan City from 1976 to 1979, as a LaPorte County deputy prosecutor from 1979 to 1987, and as LaPorte County attorney from 2012 to 2014. He has also served as LaPorte County chief public defender since 1994, giving him significant courtroom and public-sector experience.

Craig V. Braje is a member of the LaPorte County, Indiana State, Illinois State, and American Bar Associations, as well as a trial lawyer and a member of a criminal defense organization. He received the American Jurisprudence Award in 1972. His broad background helps clients address criminal charges, civil disputes, injury claims, family matters, real estate issues, and commercial concerns with steady judgment and a practical understanding of local courts and legal needs.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Braje, Nelson, & Janes, LLP
• Member, Indiana State Bar Association
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, Indiana Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, LaPorte County Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, American Trial Lawyers Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, LaPorte County Chief Public Defender

Licensed State

• Indiana
• Illinois

Education

• Valparaiso University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)

• Western Illinois University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges