Demystifying DUI Defense Strategies in Indiana

When faced with DUI charges in Indiana, it’s essential to understand your rights and the defense strategies at your disposal. The complexities of drunk driving charges necessitate the guidance of a skilled DUI defense lawyer to navigate the intricacies of the legal system.

This blog post aims to shed light on the immediate steps to take following a personal injury occurrence in Indiana, focusing particularly on instances involving impaired driving. We delve into the key legal procedures, potential defenses, and the importance of securing proficient legal representation. Remember, knowledge is power when combating DUI charges.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Trusted DUI Lawyer Near Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Trusted DUI Lawyer Near Indianapolis Indiana

Immediate Steps to Take After Getting Arrested for a DUI

As with any personal injury occurrence, safety should be the top priority. If you or anyone involved in the incident requires medical attention, seek it immediately. Once everyone’s well-being is ensured, document everything about the accident scene by taking notes and pictures. Gather contact information from any witnesses present and exchange insurance details with other parties involved. Finally, report the accident to the police if they haven’t already been notified.

Understanding DUI Charges in Indiana

In Indiana, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, as stipulated by the state’s impaired driving laws. Police officers can arrest you for DUI if they have probable cause that your judgment and ability to safely operate a vehicle are impaired. If you’re found to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you’ll be charged with OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). It’s crucial to note that Indiana has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, which means any driver under 21 years old can be arrested for DUI if they have any trace of alcohol in their system.

Drunk Driving Defense Strategies

If you’re charged with DUI, you’ll need an experienced DUI defense lawyer to help build a strong defense on your behalf. They can challenge the legality of the traffic stop, question the accuracy of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests, and dispute any other evidence against you. Additionally, they may explore alternative options, such as plea bargaining and diversion programs, to potentially reduce or dismiss your charges.

First Time DUI Penalties

If you’re a first-time offender, the penalties for DUI in Indiana can include fines of up to $5,000 and up to 1 year in jail. Your license may also be suspended for up to 2 years. The severity of your charges will depend on various factors such as BAC level, any prior criminal record, and whether anyone was injured or killed in the incident. It’s important to note that even if you’re not convicted, your license can still be suspended for up to 180 days for refusing a breathalyzer test or failing it with a BAC above 0.08%.

Importance of Legal Representation

The consequences of DUI charges in Indiana can be severe, including fines, license suspension/revocation, and even jail time for repeat offenders. With so much at stake, it’s crucial to secure proficient legal representation immediately after a personal injury occurrence involving impaired driving. An experienced DUI defense lawyer can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.

Conclusion

In summary, if you’re involved in a personal injury occurrence involving impaired driving in Indiana, it’s essential to prioritize safety and document everything at the scene. Understand the state’s DUI laws and seek professional legal guidance to build a strong defense. With the right strategies and legal representation, you can effectively fight DUI charges and protect your rights.

Remember, it’s never too early to start building your defense with the help of an experienced DUI defense lawyer.  Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with an experienced and good-standing criminal defense DUI lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can help you get the best possible outcome in court for your misdemeanor or felony drunk driving charges. But you only have 10 days to save your drivers’ license from suspension – so call NOW!

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The Sobering Truth: A Deep Dive into Drunk Driving in Indiana

Drunk driving is a critical issue that plagues societies across the globe, and sadly, Indiana is no exception. A crime that is preventable, it poses grave dangers not only to those behind the wheel but to innocent bystanders and other road users as well.

This blog sheds light on the sobering and stark reality of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in Indiana, unearthing the unnerving statistics and the comprehensive efforts being made to combat this life-threatening issue. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey, understanding the intricate complexities and profound implications of drunk driving in our local communities.

Call 317-636-7514 if You Need a Skilled Drunk Driving Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 if You Need a Skilled Drunk Driving Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana

Drunk Driving in Indiana: A Troubling Reality

According to the CDC, alcohol-impaired driving accounted for 29% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in the United States in 2018 alone. That is a staggering 10,511 deaths nationwide due to drunk driving in one year. The numbers are even more concerning when we look at Indiana’s statistics specifically. In 2019, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) reported that Indiana had 545 DUI arrests, 519 DUI crashes, and 64 DUI fatalities.

These figures have been growing steadily over the past few years; in 2018 there were 496 DUI arrests and 497 DUI crashes statewide. In addition to this, the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute also revealed that alcohol was involved in 64.5% of all fatal crashes in Indiana for 2019, which is an alarming statistic indeed.

The repercussions of drunk driving are far-reaching; beyond the tragedy befallen on innocent victims and their families, DUI convictions also have serious legal and financial consequences. Depending on the specifics of the case, a DUI can result in suspension or revocation of a driver’s license or CDL.

Understanding Indiana’s Drunk Driving Laws

In order to understand the gravity of a drunk driving conviction in Indiana, it is essential to know the relevant DUI laws. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers over 21 years old is 0.08%, and the limit for those operating commercial vehicles is 0.04%. If an individual’s BAC exceeds either of these limits, they can be arrested and charged with drunk driving.

In addition to this, Indiana also has an ‘implied consent’ law which states that any individual operating a vehicle within the state is required to provide a chemical test sample if asked by a law enforcement officer. This could include a breathalyzer test or blood sample, which is performed at a local clinic.

Battling the Issue: What is Being Done?

Indiana does not take the issue of drunk driving lightly and has taken steps to ensure that those who do drive under the influence are punished accordingly. The penalties for violating Indiana’s DUI laws depend on the number of infractions as well as BAC level but can be severe. For example, a first-time offense can result in fines up to $500, 1-year license suspension, and even imprisonment.

In order to combat the issue of drunk driving, Indiana has also implemented several public awareness campaigns such as ‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ and ‘Arrive Alive’ which aim to educate people about the dangers of impaired driving. The state has also implemented several other initiatives such as ignition interlock devices (IIDs), which require drivers to provide a breath sample before the car can start, and zero-tolerance laws for those under 21 years of age. All of these efforts are aimed at reducing the number of drunk driving incidents in Indiana and ensuring that our roads remain safe for everyone.

What to Do if You Get a DUI

 If you are facing a DUI charge in Indiana, the best thing to do is to contact an experienced and qualified attorney. The consequences of a drunk driving conviction can be severe and require complex legal assistance. An experienced DUI lawyer in Indianapolis can help you navigate the process and provide effective representation throughout the case.

It is also important to take steps to reduce the likelihood of getting a DUI in the first place. These include not drinking and driving, having a designated driver if attending an event where alcohol is present, knowing your BAC limit, and understanding Indiana’s drunk driving laws. Taking these steps can help you stay safe and avoid the potential consequences of a DUI conviction.

The Takeaway

Drunk driving is a serious issue in Indiana, and it’s essential that everyone understand the consequences of their actions before getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. With comprehensive laws and stringent enforcement, Indiana is making strides to reduce DUI incidents across the state, but we all must do our part to ensure that these efforts are successful. It is our duty as responsible citizens to be aware of the risks of driving under the influence and make smart, informed decisions in order to promote safe roads and save lives. If you are arrested for a DUI, then hire a lawyer pronto.

You only have 10 days from the time of DUI arrest to save your driving privileges. Besides that, you need a strong defense to get you the best possible outcome in court. Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis today at 317-636-7514 to meet with an experienced DUI defense attorney in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our legal team is dedicated to fiercely and intelligently defending criminal appeals, while working to secure a reduction or dismissal of your conviction.

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Understanding DUI Laws in Indiana: A Comprehensive Guide

Driving under the influence (DUI), also known as operating while intoxicated (OWI) in Indiana, is a serious offense that carries significant consequences. Being informed about the state’s DUI laws can help you make responsible decisions and understand your rights in case of a DUI arrest.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the specifics of Indiana’s DUI laws, the process following a DUI arrest, and the potential implications of an OWI conviction. The objective is to provide a clear and concise resource that can help you navigate this complex area of law.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a DUI Criminal Attorney in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a DUI Criminal Attorney in Indianapolis Indiana

Indiana DUI Laws and Penalties

In Indiana, operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more is considered DUI, also referred to as an OWI  or DWI in certain jurisdictions. It is possible to be charged with driving under the influence even if your BAC is lower than this, however. In cases where there’s evidence of intoxication, such as reckless driving, the state may pursue a charge of OWI even if your BAC is below 0.08%.

If you are arrested for OWI in Indiana, you will face criminal penalties that can include jail time, fines, probation, license suspension or revocation, and an ignition interlock device (IID). The consequences vary based on the severity of the case and whether you’ve had any previous convictions. For a first-time offense, you may face up to one year in jail and fines of up to $5,000. Your driver’s license will also be suspended for 90 days.

Repeat offenses are treated more severely by Indiana DUI laws. A second OWI conviction can carry up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. You will also be required to install an IID on your vehicle. A third OWI conviction within 10 years is considered a felony offense and can result in jail time of between one and six years, along with fines of up to $10,000. Your license can also be revoked permanently.

The DUI Arrest Process and Implications

If you are pulled over for suspicion of OWI in Indiana, the police officer will ask you to take a field sobriety test. This is an evaluation designed to assess your level of impairment and determine whether you should be arrested. If the officer believes that you are impaired, they may arrest you for DUI/OWI.

After the arrest, you will be taken to a police station where your blood alcohol content will be tested using a breathalyzer test and your results will be recorded. If the results show that your BAC is 0.08% or higher, the officer may decide to file criminal charges against you and even ask to have your blood drawn to confirm your blood alcohol levels. It’s important to note that it is still possible to be charged with a DUI even if your BAC is lower than 0.08%.

Any OWI or DUI conviction will remain on your permanent record for at least 10 years. This can have a major impact on your ability to secure employment, housing, and other opportunities down the line. An OWI/DUI conviction can also adversely affect your auto insurance rates. Depending on the severity of the offense, you may even lose your driver’s license. Further down the line, you may qualify for criminal record expungement, which can seal your criminal record from public access.

Defending Against OWI Charges in Indiana

If you have been charged with DUI/OWI in Indiana, it’s important to consult a qualified attorney as soon as possible. An experienced DUI lawyer can help assess your case and formulate a defense strategy. There are several potential defenses against DWI charges. These can include challenging the results of a field sobriety test or arguing that there was not sufficient evidence to prove intoxication. It’s important to remember that you have rights when facing OWI charges and an attorney can help protect them. An experienced lawyer can also work to reduce the severity of the charges or get them dismissed entirely, depending on the situation.

DUI/OWI laws can be complex and it’s important to understand your rights in case of a DUI arrest. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with an experienced and good-standing criminal defense DUI lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can help you get the best possible outcome in court for your misdemeanor or felony drunk driving charges. But you only have 10 days to save your drivers’ license from suspension – so call NOW!

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What You Need to Know About Felony DUI Arrests in Indiana

Drinking and driving, or driving under the influence (DUI), is a serious offense in the state of Indiana, and if you are arrested for it, you could face hefty fines or even jail time. But if your DUI charge is upgraded to a felony, then the consequences can be much more severe. A felony DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life, including job loss, difficulty finding housing or loans, and even prison time. It’s important to understand what makes a DUI charge become a felony so that you know how to protect yourself from these harsh penalties.

In this blog, we will discuss the circumstances under which an individual may face felony charges for driving under the influence in Indiana and what steps to take after being charged with such an offense.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Felony DUI Attorney in Indianapolis Indiana
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Felony DUI Attorney in Indianapolis Indiana

What a Felony DUI Arrest in Indiana Might Mean for Offenders

Indiana considers a drunk driving offense to be a felony if the accused has three or more prior convictions within the past 10 years. If this is your first offense, you will likely face misdemeanor charges and not have to worry about felony repercussions. However, it’s important to note that any subsequent conviction could result in harsher penalties. Furthermore, if you are convicted of a DUI crime while operating a commercial vehicle, you may also be charged with a felony.

Hire a Drunk Driving Lawyer

If you are facing felony drunk driving charges in Indiana, it’s essential that you get an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. An Indianapolis DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and ensure that you receive the best possible outcome for your case. Your attorney can also provide guidance on how to proceed with mitigating factors that could help reduce your sentence, such as participating in rehab or taking a defensive driving course.

How the Law Views Repeat Offenses for DUI in Indiana

DUI laws in Indiana take repeat offenses seriously, with harsher penalties for those who have been arrested for multiple drunk driving crimes. Habitual offenders may face high fines, lengthy jail sentences, and suspension or revocation of their driver’s license. In addition, any prior DUI arrests can be used to increase a person’s sentence if they are found guilty of another intoxicated driving offense.

In Indiana, drivers may receive enhanced punishment based on the number of prior DUI convictions on their record. For example, someone convicted of a second drunk driving offense within 5 years must serve at least 5 days in jail and may be fined up to $10,000. A third or subsequent conviction in the same time period carries even tougher penalties, such as 10-30 days in jail and fines up to $10,000. The court also has the option to order additional sanctions that can include longer probation periods and mandatory alcohol education courses.

Furthermore, some counties may have local ordinances which carry their own separate punishments for repeat DUI offenders which can include fines ranging from $500 to $2,500, additional community service hours beyond what is required by the state laws and/or installation of an ignition interlock device. Ignition interlock devices (IID) require drivers to blow into a breathalyzer before starting the vehicle; if the device detects alcohol above a predetermined level, then it will prevent the car from being started. Indiana state law also requires IID installation for certain repeat offenders as part of any probation agreement following a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI).

In short, it is important to understand that the consequences associated with multiple drunk driving arrests in Indiana can be severe. It is recommended that anyone charged with driving under the influence seek legal counsel from an experienced criminal defense attorney to ensure they are aware of all possible penalties and available options for defending against these charges.

In Summary

Overall, it’s important to understand what constitutes a felony drunk driving charge in Indiana so that you can be prepared if you are ever charged with one. A felony conviction can have serious implications for your future, so make sure to contact a qualified DUI lawyer right away if you find yourself facing felony charges. With the right representation and understanding of the law, there is hope for a favorable outcome and protection from life-altering penalties.

After being arrested for drunk driving, it’s crucial to work with an experienced DUI lawyer right away. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned DUI defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm will get you the best possible outcome to your drunk driving case!

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How to Minimize Penalties Following a DUI Arrest

Getting arrested for drunk driving can be a life-changing experience. Not only do you have to deal with the legal consequences, but also the social stigma that comes along with it. However, even if you’ve been charged with a DUI offense, there are still ways to minimize penalties and avoid long-term consequences. With the help of an experienced DUI lawyer who understands your case and knows all of your options, you may be able to reduce or dismiss your charges altogether.

In this blog post, we will discuss how hiring an attorney can help minimize penalties following a DUI arrest and how they can build a strong defense on your behalf.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a DUI Defense Attorney in Indianapolis IN
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a DUI Defense Attorney in Indianapolis IN

Hire a DUI Lawyer to Avoid the Maximum Penalties for Drunk Driving

The first step you should take after a DUI arrest is to hire an experienced drunk driving lawyer. Your attorney will be able to review your case and advise you on the best course of action for your particular situation. A knowledgeable DUI attorney has specific knowledge about drunk driving laws and can challenge elements of the prosecution’s argument from both legal and technical perspectives. In some cases, they may even be able to contest scientific evidence or witness testimony in order to reduce charges or dismiss them completely.

Your attorney will also have insight into how prosecutors approach DUI cases, which can help them negotiate with the court in order to obtain lesser sentences or reduced fines when possible. In addition, they can work with you to create a compelling defense strategy that includes mitigation evidence, such as a prior history of good deeds or extenuating circumstances that may have contributed to the offense.

Furthermore, your drunk driving lawyer can provide guidance on how to best prepare for court and any other administrative proceedings related to your case. This includes helping you understand the specific laws of your state and advising you on how to speak respectfully during appearances and hearings. They will also assist in developing an effective sentencing plan with authorities and work with you to craft a clear message that shows remorse if necessary.

Indiana Penalties for DUI Conviction

Drunk driving is a serious offense that comes with severe consequences in Indiana. If you are caught driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more, you will be charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI). The penalties for a first-time conviction can include license suspension for up to two years, fines of up to $5,000, and up to one year in jail.

For subsequent convictions, the penalties can become even more severe, including longer jail sentences and higher fines. In addition to legal consequences, drunk driving can also have personal and social repercussions, including higher insurance rates, strained relationships, and even loss of employment. It’s important to remember that one poor decision can potentially affect the rest of your life, and the lives of those around you.

Conclusion

By hiring an experienced DUI defense attorney, you are taking action towards minimizing DUI penalties that come with a drunk driving arrest. A knowledgeable OWI lawyer can help build a strong defense on your behalf by challenging evidence presented by prosecutors at each step in the process. They can also provide guidance and advice to ensure that you are fully prepared for court proceedings and sentencing hearings. With the right legal representation, you may be able to reduce or dismiss your charges altogether, avoiding long-term consequences associated with a DUI conviction.

It is essential to work with an experienced DUI lawyer directly after your drunk driving arrest. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a seasoned DUI defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our law firm will get you the best possible outcome to your drunk driving case!

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5 Things You Need to Know if You are Charged With DUI in Indiana

If you are charged with DUI in Indiana, it’s important to understand the consequences and how to fight the charge. Here are five things you need to know.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Licensed Drunk Driving Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana.
Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Licensed Drunk Driving Lawyer in Indianapolis Indiana.

What Happens During a DUI Arrest

When a driver is pulled over on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in Indiana, the officer will likely ask them to perform a series of field sobriety tests. If the driver fails these tests, or if the officer has other evidence that the driver is impaired, the driver will be arrested and taken to a local police station or jail. At the station or jail, the driver will be booked and have their mugshot taken. They will then be asked to provide a sample of their breath or blood for testing. If the test results show that the driver was above the legal limit, they will likely be charged with DUI. Depending on the severity of the offense, they may also face additional charges such as reckless driving or vehicular homicide.

How to Fight a DUI Charge

If you are arrested for DUI in Indiana, it is important to know how to fight the charge. There are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting the charge dismissed or reduced. One of the most important things is to have a strong defense strategy. You should work with a licensed Indianapolis IN DUI lawyer who can help you build a case and advise you on the best way to plead.

You may also want to consider hiring a private investigator to gather evidence that could help your case. If there is evidence that the arresting officer made errors or collected evidence illegally, your lawyer may be able to use this information to get the charge reduced or dismissed. Finally, it is important to stay calm and polite during the arrest and booking process. This will not only make it easier for your lawyer to help you, but it will also show the court that you are taking the charges seriously.

The Consequences of a DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction can result in a number of consequences, including fines, jail time, driver’s license suspension, and community service. The fines associated with a DUI conviction can be significant and may include court costs, probation fees, and restitution to victims. You may also receive an increased insurance premium or the suspension of your driver’s license. Depending on the severity of the offense and state laws, you could face jail time for a DUI conviction.  Jail time typically varies from a few days up to a year but may be extended depending on prior convictions. Additionally, you may be ordered to serve community service hours in lieu of or in addition to jail time.

After your conviction, the court may require that you attend and pay for DUI classes or an alcohol education program. You may also be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle, which requires a breath sample every time you start the car and monitors your driving. In addition, all of these consequences will be reflected on your criminal record, which could limit your employment opportunities or prevent you from being approved for certain types of housing.

How DUI Charges Can Impact Your Life

If you are arrested for DUI, it can have a significant impact on your life. You may lose your driver’s license, have to pay expensive fines, and even go to jail. A DUI conviction can also make it difficult to find a job or get into college. If you are facing DUI charges, it is important to seek legal assistance. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Expunging a DUI From Your Criminal Record

If you are convicted of a DUI, you may be able to get the conviction expunged from your record. However, this process can be complex and may require the assistance of an Indiana expungement attorney.

If you are arrested for DUI in Indiana, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free consultation with a licensed DUI lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We can start working on your case TODAY.

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Have You Been Charged With Felony Drunk Driving in Indiana?

Felony drunk driving or intoxicated driving charges are very serious in Indiana. Be sure you have the aggressive and reputable legal representation you need in order to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. Continue below to learn how to get the best possible outcome after being charged with a felony DUI in Indianapolis and its surrounding counties.

DUI Attorneys Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514
DUI Attorneys Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

Drunk Driving Felonies are Serious in Indiana

Second and third DUI offenses, or multiple DUI offenses are classified as various Levels of Felonies in Indiana. Felonies are divided into 7 categories in Indiana: Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, Level 4, Level 5, Level 6, and Murder. Level 6 felony crimes are the least serious type of felony, and are commonly referred to as “wobblers” since they can most often be reduced to Class A Misdemeanors. Level 6 felonies are punishable up to 3 years in prison, up to $10,000 in fines, and several other court-ordered penalties. Level 1 and 2 felony crimes are the most serious levels, excluding murder. Each level of felony is assigned a separate statute regarding penalization.

You Can Face Felony DUI Charges If:

■ You Have a Prior DUI Conviction/s within the Past 5 to 10 Years
■ You Have Two Prior DUI Convictions
■ You Have Three Prior DUI Convictions
■ You Receive a Fourth DUI Charge
■ DUI Involving Manslaughter
■ DUI Involving Child Endangerment
■ Fleeing from the Scene of the Crime
■ DUI Involving Severe Property Damages
■ DUI Involving Bodily Harm to Another Person

How to Get Ahead of Felony Drunk Driving Charges in Indiana

People make mistakes, and just one extra glass of Cabernet can put a person over the set 0.08 BAC state alcohol limit. More significantly, a drunk driving charge is always serious, but pair a DUI with additional aggravated offenses or prior convictions, and you have a DUI felony on your hands. These types of DUI charges can be very difficult on you and your family and create a troubling ripple effect on your life and future.

Not only do you face jail time, but you can also lose your driving privileges, child custody, student aid benefits, employment, job promotions, and more. It is critical to have the guidance and knowledge of a skilled Indiana DUI criminal defense lawyer on your team to prevent your constitutional rights from being violated. DUIs exclude no one, but a tough drunk driving lawyer can exclude you from jail time and other harsh drunk driving penalties if you choose the right one.

Hire an Aggressive and Experienced DUI Lawyer in Indianapolis

Here at the Law Office of David E. Lewis, we offer free initial consultations, so there are never any out-of-pocket fees to discuss the best strategies for your criminal defense. As a longtime professional in the industry, Attorney David E. Lewis has what it takes to build a strong and impactful defense on your behalf. He never uses confusing legal jargon, which ensures that you fully understand everything you need to know. David E. Lewis Attorney at Law will instantly begin building a strong and aggressive defense on your behalf in order to preserve your freedoms and obtain  the best possible outcome in court.

Are you ready to get started with a free consultation to meet Attorney David E. Lewis? Contact us at 317-636-7514 to schedule a meeting with a DUI felony lawyer in Indianapolis you can trust. Our law firm also offers Indiana criminal record expungement and appeal representation.

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Should I Plead Guilty to My DUI Charge?

Anyone facing a pending drunk driving charge is asking themselves what to do next. One of the most common questions criminal defense lawyers hear from defendants charged with a DUI has to do with pleading. Clients want to know whether or not they should plead guilty for their alleged criminal charge.

If this sounds like your current legal situation, continue reading to learn what you need to know about pleading guilty to an intoxicated driving charge in Indiana.

Indianapolis Drunk Driving Attorney 317-636-7514
Indianapolis Drunk Driving Attorney 317-636-7514

In a DUI case, a defendant is likely to receive a guilty conviction when prima facie evidence proves they were operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or some other illegal or controlled substance. In the case of alcohol, if a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08 or higher, they are in violation of the intoxicated driving laws. If a defendant has evidence that their BAC 0.08, there could be a chance that their charges could be argued, but it is still rare. Most drunk driving charges end with some form of a guilty verdict.  

Pleading Guilty or Not Guilty

It is true that pleading “guilty” to a DWI charge will instantly shorten the time frame of your personal legal process. However, pleading guilty does mean that you are admitting fault, and surrendering yourself to a list of possible penalties, such as fines, probation, suspended license, community service, rehabilitation, and even jail time. For this reason, it is important to fully understand your criminal charges, and the consequences you face if found guilty, before making a decision to plea.

On the other hand, a defendant could also decide to plead “not guilty”, to their DUI charges. In this case, they can expect a much longer legal process, which in turn means higher legal fees. If you plan to plead “not guilty” to your DUI charges, understand that fighting your charges could be moot in the end, since it is more likely that you will be found guilty if the evidence shows you were indeed legally intoxicated while operating a motor vehicle.

Reduced Charges

It is also true that most (not all) DUI defendants will have their charged reduced in some way or another, especially those who have private legal representation rather than a public defender. But even those who are granted lesser charges will still be found guilty and face the list of possible penalties mentioned before. This is where plea deals come in handy. Agreeing to a plea deal can eliminate jail time and avoid the maximum charges for a DUI crime.

So what does a defendant do? Should they plead “guilty” or “not guilty” to their DUI charges?

The answer to this question is complex. It starts with personal preference. But before personal preference can influence your decision, it is vital that you learn the full extent of your legal charges and their maximum penalties, as well as, the potential outcomes of each route. In order to accomplish this, you must consult with a licensed and experienced Indianapolis criminal defense lawyer who can explain everything you need to know in a language you can clearly understand.

Contact the Law Office of David. E. Lewis

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law
David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with aggressive Indiana criminal defense attorney, David E. Lewis, who will stop at nothing to protect your rights and preserve your freedoms. With decades of hands-on experience, you can trust Attorney David E. Lewis to build you a strong and impactful defense against your criminal charges.

Can College Students Face Academic Consequences for DUI Charges?

Criminal Defense Attorney 317-636-7514

Criminal Defense Attorney 317-636-7514

When a regular person is pulled over and arrested on a drunk driving charge, they are likely to face a long list of criminal and civil penalties. These penalties commonly include a generous combination of the following reprimands: fines, court costs, community service, probation, drug screening, victim impact panels, ignition interlock devices, ankle monitors, diversion programs, substance abuse rehabilitation, and more.

However, if a college student is arrested for drunk driving, they are likely to face additional consequences. Not only will they face criminal and civil penalties, they are at risk of being penalized academically as well. Continue reading to learn which consequences a college student may face after being arrested on a DUI charge.

Academic Penalties for Drunk Driving Charges

The academic penalties for college students arrested on drunk driving charges vary among universities, with consequences ranging in severity from non-existent to major. Some colleges do not punish at all for criminal charges acquired inside or outside of campus, while others only penalize students if their DUI took place on campus grounds. But there are also handfuls of colleges that do reprimand students for drunk driving convictions. Many of these universities require students to be judged at an academic court hearing first, at which their penalties will be decided and handed down. Such penalties commonly include one or more of the following:

✏ Academic Probation
✏ Suspension
✏ Drug Counseling
✏ Campus Community Service
✏ Alcohol Education Classes
✏ Diversion Programs
✏ Fines
✏ Expulsion

Penalties That Can Go Beyond College

Criminal charges of any kind can also have life-long consequences for college students in terms of future and career as well. Depending on the type and severity of the crime, a student’s ability to obtain a certain professional licenses can be impacted or even revoked. Careers such as teaching, certified education, law enforcement, health care professionals, legal professionals, and more could be impossible or difficult to achieve with a criminal record. For this reason, it is critical to retain private legal representation to defend your criminal charges.

Defense for Academic Penalties

If you are a college student that was arrested for a DUI, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer at your academic hearing to help you avoid the maximum penalties. If you know your university reprimands students for criminal convictions, namely drunk driving, it is important to retain legal counsel as soon as possible so your criminal lawyer has time to build you a strong and impactful defense before your academic court hearing.

Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law

David E. Lewis Attorney at Law 317-636-7514

Call David E. Lewis, Attorney at Law, at 317-636-7514 if you are facing DUI charges in Indianapolis, Indiana. He will work around the clock, using every resource in his power, to build you the strongest defense against you pending criminal charges. Our law firm offers free initial consultations to discuss your drunk driving charges and the best strategies for defense. Call us at 317-636-7514 to schedule an appointment with an Indianapolis DUI lawyer you can trust.