Jonathan D. Harwell

Jonathan D. Harwell is the co-founder and managing partner of Harwell Criminal Defense in Indianapolis, Indiana. His practice focuses on criminal defense, appeals, and post-conviction relief, including murder cases, death penalty matters, federal appeals, DUI, drug offenses, violent crimes, sex crimes, weapons charges, and white collar cases. Harwell represents clients at different stages of the criminal process and works to protect their rights through strategic litigation, careful case preparation, and courtroom advocacy.

Harwell earned his J.D. from Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law, where he received a CALI Excellence for the Future Award and Gold Level Pro Bono Recognition. He earned a B.S. in Legal Studies, cum laude, from Ball State University and was a member of the Lambda Epsilon Chi Legal Studies Honor Society. His academic training provided a strong foundation in legal research, advocacy, and criminal procedure.

Harwell has handled serious criminal trials, appellate matters, and post-conviction cases in state and federal courts. His representative results include not-guilty verdicts in murder, child molestation, aggravated battery, domestic battery, and resisting law enforcement cases. He has also obtained a conviction reversal on appeal and post-conviction relief, resulting in a new trial. Earlier in his career, he worked with the Indiana State Public Defender and the Marion County Public Defender Agency.

Jonathan D. Harwell is a graduate of the National Criminal Defense College Trial Practice Institute and a certified mediator. He has taught continuing legal education courses, participated in Indiana State Bar Association leadership programs, and contributed to pro bono and community initiatives, including the Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic, Kids’ Voice of Indiana, and the American Bar Association Death Penalty Representation Project. His practice combines trial experience, appellate advocacy, and ongoing professional service.

Law Office Affiliations

• Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Harwell Criminal Defense
• Member, Indiana State Bar Association
• Member, Indianapolis Bar Association
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• Indiana

Education

• Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Ball State University
  Bachelor of Science

Awards & Badges