Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What is the role of a prosecutor?

A prosecutor is responsible for representing the State of Indiana in prosecuting a criminal case against a person accused of committing a crime, or, in other cases, alleged to owe child support.

Why does Mark McCann’s name appear on all my documents that I receive and as listed in MyCase?

Mark McCann is the Elected Prosecuting Attorney for Howard County and his name appears on all letterhead and on all Howard County Prosecutor cases listed in “MyCase.”

Mr. McCann has deputies assigned to cases to assist him in handling all of the cases.

To determine who to specifically contact about the case, go to the MyCase summary details in MyCase - https://public.courts.in.gov/mycase/#/vw/Search - or, refer to the signature line of any correspondence to identify the Deputy Prosecutor handling your particular case.

What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?

Indiana Code defines what crimes constitute a misdemeanor and felony but typically felonies consist of longer sentences which may include time spent in the Indiana Department of Corrections.

What is the process for obtaining a Protective Order?

To obtain a Protective Order, you will need to file a request with the Howard County Clerk. You will need to provide evidence of the threat or danger, such as police reports and/or witness statements.

What is difference between a Protective Order and a No Contact Order (NCO)?

A No Contact Order (NCO) is ordered by a Judge as an order in a separately filed case for an alleged crime.

A Protective Order (PO) is an order from a Judge where the request for the PO is the basis of the case.

How do I get a No Contact Order (NCO) dismissed?

A No Contact Order (NCO) is ordered by a Judge as an order in a separately filed case for an alleged crime.

Your request for dismissal of the Court's order must be made to the Court that issued the order.

Can I ask/obtain restitution for damages involved where I am identified as a victim?

The criminal case law only allows us to ask the Court for reimbursement for Out-of-Pocket expenses incurred in the commission of a crime. Any other expenses such as lost wages etc. would need to be handled in a civil court proceeding. You may also ask for assistance from the State by going to IN.gov for Victim Compensation - https://www.in.gov/cji/victim-compensation/ - and you can find more restitution information by clicking on "Victim" at the top of the main page.