Understanding DUI Laws in Indiana: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on August 30, 2023 by admin

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

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’ li c ense from suspension – so call NOW!

How to Minimize Penalties Following a DUI Arrest

Posted on April 26, 2023 by admin

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

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!

The Potential Consequences of a DUI Arrest in Indiana

Posted on March 29, 2023 by admin

Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Indiana can be a devastating experience. Not only do you face potential jail time and fines, but you also run the risk of long-term consequences that could follow you for years to come. A DUI conviction can lead to restrictions on your license, higher insurance rates, and difficulty finding employment or housing. That’s why it is essential to have an experienced DUI attorney representing your case if you find yourself facing charges.

In this blog post, we will discuss what happens after a DUI arrest in Indiana and how hiring a lawyer can help protect your rights and minimize any potential repercussions. We’ll look at some of the common penalties associated with drunk driving convictions as well as other ways a criminal record can negatively impact your life going forward. Finally, we’ll explain why working with an experienced DUI attorney is key when navigating the complexities of Indiana’s drunk driving laws.

Call 317-636-7514 to Speak With a Skilled DUI Attorney in Indianapolis.

Indiana Penalties For DUI Arrests and Crimes

In Indiana, the penalties for DUI can vary depending on a few factors. If you are arrested for DUI and have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 percent or higher, then you may face a Class C misdemeanor charge. This could result in up to 60 days in jail and up to $500 in fines. If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, it’s considered an “aggravated” DUI offense and carries even harsher penalties such as longer jail time and steeper fines. You may also receive additional charges if there was property damage or injury involved in the incident.

DUI Convictions Go on Your Criminal Record Forever

If convicted of a drunk driving offense, your driver’s license will likely be suspended anywhere from 30 days to 2 years. You may also be subject to special restrictions, such as installing an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle or attending alcohol treatment courses. In addition, you will likely have to pay additional fees and assessments for reinstating your license once the suspension period is over.

What’s more, a DUI conviction can stay on your criminal record for life and may appear in background checks conducted by potential employers or landlords. This could make it difficult to get hired for certain jobs or find suitable housing in the future. You may qualify to have your records expunged or sealed, but you would have to wait at least 5 to 8 years before you are eligible to apply. Additionally, insurance companies typically raise rates after a DUI conviction — sometimes up to double what you were paying before — which can make auto insurance prohibitively expensive.

Hiring a DUI Attorney is Critical to Your Future and Freedoms

Given the serious nature of DUI charges in Indiana, it’s essential to have an experienced attorney who understands the intricacies of state and federal drunk driving laws. Your best defense strategy is to hire a skilled DUI attorney. An experienced DUI lawyer can construct a persuasive argument for an acquittal or a lesser sentence on your behalf. They know what legal avenues to explore, how to challenge evidence or police procedure errors, and how to take advantage of their experience to get the outcome you want. With the right DUI attorney in Indianapolis by your side, you can provide the most effective defense against the prosecution’s accusations.

So, don’t fight drunk driving charges alone — hire an experienced DWI attorney today for the best defense. A seasoned Indianapolis drunk driving lawyer can help build a strong defense against your charges and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. They will also be able to explain any plea bargains or other options that may be available to you, as well as their potential consequences.

By taking the steps outlined in this blog post, you can be better informed and prepared to face the potential consequences of a DUI arrest. Start the process of your DUI defense by hiring the Law Office of David E. Lewis in Indianapolis, Indiana. We work aggressively to get you the best possible outcome in court, including saving your driving privileges.

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