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The Indiana Credit Time Laws and the Criminal Case Plan Credit Time Program

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If you or a loved one is incarcerated in Indiana, you are likely anxious to finish this time away as quickly as possible. Fortunately, Indiana’s Credit Time law allows individuals to cut the amount of time they serve when they participate in programs that will help them lead healthy and productive lives following incarceration. The Case Plan Credit Time (CPCT) program has been revamped to allow more people than ever to participate. Here’s what you need to know about these laws.

What Is Good Credit Time?

Indiana Code 35-50-6.3.1 states that an incarcerated person can earn good time credit when they serve time without disciplinary action. This good time reduces the amount of time of their sentence they will have to serve. The amount of good time credit a person receives depends on their level of perceived risk and the class they are assigned as follows:

  • Class A – The Class A group includes individuals convicted of misdemeanors and less serious felonies. These individuals earn one day of credit for each day of their sentence.
  • Class B – Class B involves people serving sentences for higher-level felonies. These individuals earn one day of credit for every three days served without disciplinary action.
  • Class C – Class C involves individuals who are serving sentences for more serious felonies such as murder or certain types of sex crimes. These individuals receive one day of credit for each six days served.
  • Class D – Class D individuals have a history of disciplinary issues and are not eligible for good time credit.
  • Class P – Class P individuals are serving time on house arrest or home detention awaiting trial. They earn one day of credit for every four days served.

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What Is Case Plan Credit Time?

Indiana lawmakers revamped how educational and programming credits are awarded to incarcerated individuals. Before the changes, less than one percent of incarcerated people received the maximum amount of credit they were entitled to. Credit was only given to those who completed certain programs, and many individuals were not given credit for jobs they did in Department of Correction facilities.

Now, individuals can develop a specific case plan and earn credit toward their unique goals. Additionally, individuals with mental health, cognitive disorders, or medical issues that prevented them from formal programming are eligible to earn credit based on their progress and behavior. CPCT allows incarcerated individuals to earn up to one day of credit for every three days of participation in the program. This credit is in addition to good credit time.

Case plans incorporate traditional services, such as Addiction Recovery Treatment, vocational training, and education training, that can help a person build a solid foundation after serving a prison sentence.

How a Lawyer Can Help

Sentencing and credit time eligibility are complex. An experienced Indianapolis defense lawyer from The Criminal Defense Team can review your circumstances and explain if you are eligible for programs designed to reduce your sentence.  Call us at (317) 678-9853 for a free initial consultation.