Aggressive Criminal Defense in Northwest Indiana
Need a Shark? Call Mark!
For more than 30 years, Mark K. Gruenhagen has stood between his clients and the full weight of the prosecution — concentrating on felonies at the state and federal level across Lake County and Northwest Indiana.
- 30+ YearsPracticing Law
- LicensedIndiana & Illinois
- State & FederalCourts
- WeekendAppointments
Aggressive Defense Is at the Heart of Every Case
Felonies · State & Federal
An experienced trial lawyer who wins cases in front of juries. Less experienced representation can wrongly convince you a guilty plea is your only option.
When you’re charged with a crime, the prosecution already has a head start. Mark closes that gap. He concentrates on felonies at the state and federal level, and he prepares every case as if it’s headed for a jury — because the best deals, dismissals and verdicts go to the side that’s ready to fight.
We understand the legal process can be extremely trying and difficult. That’s why we focus not just on defending our clients, but on defending them aggressively — fighting for the best possible outcome in their case.
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Trial-Ready From Day One
Prosecutors know which lawyers will actually take a case to a jury. Mark builds every file with the courtroom in mind.
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State & Federal Courts
Licensed in Indiana and Illinois, and admitted in various federal courts and jurisdictions.
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Straight Talk, No Runaround
You’ll hear the truth about your case — the strengths, the risks and your real options — in plain English.
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Available When You Need Him
Weekday office hours plus weekend appointments, because legal trouble doesn’t keep business hours.
Practice Areas
How Mark Can Help
Criminal defense is the core of the practice — and Mark brings the same fight to OWI, traffic, expungement, injury and juvenile cases.
Criminal Defense
Aggressive defense for felonies and misdemeanors at the state and federal level — drug, property, violent and federal charges.
Learn MoreOWI / DUI / DWI
You need an experienced attorney who will protect your rights, your license and your record from the very first hearing.
Learn MoreTraffic Tickets & CDL
Even routine infractions can be costly and linger on your record. Upload your ticket and review your options today.
Learn MoreExpungement & Record Clearing
Get a second chance. Sealing an eligible record can open doors to jobs, housing and professional licenses.
Learn MorePersonal Injury
Hurt in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence? Contact us right away to protect your claim.
Learn MoreJuvenile Law
Proper representation matters most when a minor is involved. Protecting their future starts now.
Learn MoreMeet Mark K. Gruenhagen
Experienced Trial Lawyer
Mark K. Gruenhagen
Attorney at Law
- Indiana University (undergraduate); Valparaiso University School of Law, 1994
- Licensed in Indiana and Illinois
- Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Indiana, and various other federal courts and jurisdictions
- Member of the Lake County Bar Association, Indiana State Bar Association and Lake County Criminal Defense Bar
Mark has been practicing defense in Northwest Indiana for more than 30 years. That experience is on your side.
He knows the courthouses, the procedures and the pressure a criminal charge puts on a family. “Mark the Shark” may be the firm’s calling card, but the approach behind it is simple: prepare relentlessly, tell clients the truth, and never back down from a fight worth having.
Our clients are like family. When you call, you get Mark — not a call center.
Need a Shark? Call Mark!
Free Case Evaluation
When your freedom, your license or your family is on the line, you want someone in your corner who’s ready to fight. Call now — weekday hours and weekend appointments available.
What Clients Say
In Their Own Words
Mark handled my ticket and got it removed from my record. I’d highly recommend his services.
Testimonials do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different.
Serving Lake County & Northwest Indiana
Based in Schererville
From the office on West Lincoln Highway, Mark represents clients in courts throughout the region, including:
- Schererville
- Merrillville
- Crown Point
- Hammond
- Gary
- Munster
- Highland
- Dyer
- St. John
- Hobart
- Valparaiso
- East Chicago
Know Your Rights
Straight Answers
I’ve been pulled over. Should I speak to the officer?
No! Talking to an officer may seem like a good idea, but most often the only outcome is self-incrimination. Stay calm and polite, keep your answers brief, and contact us immediately if you’ve received a ticket or been arrested.
Should I go to court without a lawyer?
No! Walking into court without legal representation puts you at a serious disadvantage against a prosecutor who does this every day. Talk to a lawyer before your first court date.
Should I consent to a search?
No! You can calmly say “I do not consent to a search.” Don’t argue or physically resist — just don’t agree, don’t answer questions, and call your lawyer at (219) 322-3000.
Talk to Mark Today
Free Case Evaluation
If you need legal representation, contact us immediately. Tell us a little about your situation and Mark’s office will get back to you promptly.
Reach Mark Directly
Prefer to talk it through? Call the office — weekend appointments are available.
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Call (219) 322-3000
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Email mkg@mkglegal.com
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Visit 833 West Lincoln Highway, Suite 450 E
Schererville, IN 46375 -
Hours Mon–Fri 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Weekend appointments available
Someone in Custody?Call (219) 322-3000 right away. The earlier Mark is involved, the more options you have.