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.

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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.

How New Technology is Changing the Face of DUI Testing

Posted on January 17, 2023 by admin

Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense, and in recent years DUI testing has become more sophisticated and accurate. With new technology being developed every day, DUI testing is becoming even more reliable. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how new technology is changing the face of DUI testing and what implications it could have for those charged with drunk driving offenses as well as their lawyers. We will also examine some of the legal issues that arise when using these newer technologies in court cases.

So, if you are facing a DUI charge or know someone who is, read on to learn about how new technology might be able to help your case!

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

The Evolution of Alcohol Testing Technology

Sobriety Field Tests

Let’s start with the old fashioned ways of testing suspected drunk drivers: field sobriety testing. Law enforcement has a powerful tool in sobriety field tests to help protect citizens from drunk drivers. These standardized tests can be conducted during routine traffic stops or as part of an officer’s investigation into possible impairment caused by drugs or alcohol. They involve tasks and activities designed to evaluate physical coordination, judgment, and sobriety. Some sobriety tests involve balance exercises like the one-leg stand, while others involve finger dexterity and responses to simple commands. When administered properly, sobriety field tests are invaluable for evaluating whether a driver is fit to drive and ensuring roads are safe from the dangers associated with drunk driving.

Breathalyzers

One of the biggest changes that has been made to DUI testing is the introduction of breathalyzers. These are used by law enforcement officers to measure a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC). The more sophisticated devices can even detect trace amounts of alcohol, meaning that even if a driver thinks they haven’t had anything to drink, they could still be over the legal limit. This is a major shift from traditional methods of testing, which often rely on loose estimations and subjective opinions.

Blood Testing

Another major change in DUI testing technology has been the introduction of blood tests. These are much more accurate than breathalyzers and can detect even tiny amounts of alcohol or drugs in a person’s system. This creates a much more reliable method of testing, as well as giving law enforcement officers the ability to have a record of a driver’s BAC at the time of their arrest.

Sobriety Checkpoints

Finally, there is the issue of sobriety checkpoints. These are being increasingly used across the country to help reduce drunk driving and have been largely successful. However, there are legal issues that arise when using sobriety checkpoints due to the fact that they may infringe on a driver’s privacy rights. For this reason, DUI lawyers need to be aware of these legal considerations in order to ensure their clients’ constitutional rights are being respected.

Talk to a Qualified Drunk Driving Attorney in Indianapolis ASAP

Overall, it is clear that new technology is changing the face of DUI testing. With more accurate devices and legal considerations in place, it is important for attorneys to stay up-to-date on the latest developments so that they can provide quality service to their clients. If you or someone you know has been charged with a DUI offense, it’s critical to speak to a qualified Indianapolis DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Doing so can make all the difference in your case and help ensure that you get the best possible outcome.

Furthermore, by staying informed about the latest developments in DUI testing technology, you can rest assured that any legal issues arising from the use of these technologies will be addressed properly by an experienced lawyer. With the right DUI attorney, you can be sure that your rights are being respected and that you have access to the best legal representation available. Remember, when it comes to DUI testing technology, knowledge is power!

Refused a chemical test or arrested for DUI in Indiana? Don’t wait a day longer to get started on your DUI defense. Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 right away to safeguard your rights and secure your future after being arrested for a DUI in Indianapolis. Our law firm will tenaciously dispute all elements of the case against you, including any testing results in order to help achieve an improved result in court.

Beat the Hangover: How to Drink Smartly this New Year’s Eve

Posted on December 28, 2022 by admin

As the holiday season is upon us, many of us are looking forward to celebrating New Year’s Eve with friends and family. However, it’s important to remember that drinking responsibly is key for a safe and fun night out. From avoiding driving under the influence (DUI) to limiting your alcohol intake, here are some tips on how you can drink smartly this New Year’s Eve so that you can enjoy your night without any regrets or hangovers.

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

How to Drink Responsibly on New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is a time for celebration, but it should also be a time for responsibility and safety. Every year, many people choose to celebrate with alcohol, but too often these celebrations end in tragedy due to drunk driving or other dangerous activities. This New Year’s Eve, make sure that you drink smartly by following some simple rules: always have a designated driver if you plan on drinking; never get behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol; and remember that drinking can impair your judgment and put you at risk of harm. Responsible alcohol consumption is key to having an enjoyable New Year’s Eve while keeping yourself safe from getting a DUI or any other potential dangers.

Here are some more responsible drinking tips to get you through the holiday season and safely into 2024:

1. Set a Limit: Before you start celebrating, set yourself a limit on how much alcohol you intend to drink for the evening. This will help ensure that you don’t overdo it and end up in an uncomfortable or even dangerous situation.

2. Alternate Drinks: Alternate each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water or a soft drink. This will help keep you hydrated throughout the night and reduce your chances of getting too drunk, too fast.

3. Slow Down: Don’t be tempted to drink quickly and try to pace yourself by sipping your drinks slowly. Allowing yourself time to absorb the alcohol in your system will help your body cope and reduce the risk of getting too drunk.

4. Eat Something: Eating something before or during drinking will help to slow down the rate of absorption of alcohol into our bodies, reducing its effects. That way, you can enjoy your drinks with fewer dizzying effects. With this helpful tip in your back pocket, you’ll be able to cheer and celebrate just that much longer.

5. Don’t Drink & Drive: Drinking and driving is a major no-no, so if you’re planning to drink, make sure you have a designated driver or use public transport. Alternatively, call a cab and make sure you get home safe and sound.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your New Year’s Eve in style but still be responsible about it. With these simple steps, you can make sure you have a fun and safe night out, where the only hangover you’ll be dealing with is from staying up too late! Cheers to that!

What to Do After a New Year’s Eve Arrest in Indianapolis

New Year’s Eve is a time to celebrate with family and friends, but unfortunately it can also end unexpectedly if you are arrested. If you are facing charges after being arrested New Year’s Eve in Indianapolis, the most important thing to do is contact a trusted and skilled criminal defense attorney in Indianapolis. An experienced crime lawyer can help you understand your rights and handle any legal repercussions of the arrest, whether detained for drunk driving, drugged driving, drug possession, assault, or even a probation violation. They will be able to counsel you on what the best repercussions are for your situation and get through this challenging time as smoothly as possible. It’s important to remember that every region has its own laws, so finding a qualified Indianapolis criminal defense attorney is essential when navigating New Year’s Eve-related legal issues.

Trust only the best and most aggressive criminal litigators when it comes to avoiding the maximum penalties for your charges. Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a meeting with our experienced Indianapolis criminal defense law firm. Schedule a meeting with us either by phone or in person at our law office, based conveniently in Downtown Indy.

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

Posted on November 25, 2022 by admin

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.

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.

You Have 10 Days to Protect Your Indiana Drivers’ License After an OWI

Posted on September 14, 2022 by admin

Were you just let out of jail after being arrested for drunk driving or intoxicated driving? If so, beware. A licensed criminal defense lawyer (not a public defender) only has 10 days to save your driving privileges in Indianapolis, so get on the phone and call a trusted DUI attorney in Indiana, today!

Don’t let an OWI arrest hold you back from reliable transportation when it does not have to. After all, your income matters more now than it ever has before, and a vehicle is a reliable way to get back and forth from work. And being in trouble with the law is not cheap, especially if you face jail time. You might also have children in need of transportation to and from daycare, school, and activities.

Continue below to learn how to protect your drivers’ license in Indiana after being arrested on inebriated driving charges in Indianapolis.

DUI Attorneys Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

Specialized Driving Privileges (SDP)

Were you recently arrested on a drink driving charge in Indiana? If you didn’t refuse a chemical test, and it hasn’t been 10 days since the arrest, you may qualify to have your driving privileges saved from suspension! What was once called a “hardship” or “probationary” license is now referred to a “specialized driving privileges” (SDP) in Indiana.

It is vital to call Attorney David E. Lewis as soon as possible following an OWI charge in Marion County to see if you have a chance at being granted specialized driving privileges. Depending on several factors, a judge can choose to grant a wide spectrum of driving authorizations for an offender. They may only allow a person to drive to and from school or work, or simply allow offenders to drive during specified times of the day. They may also assign an ignition interlock device on their vehicle to prevent future intoxicated driving if they are a habitual offender.

How to Reinstate a Drivers’ License After a DUI

Contact the Law Office of David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to learn more about your Indianapolis drunk driving charges, including how to reinstate your drivers; license, how to avoid the maximum penalties for your crime, and more. Our Indianapolis IN criminal defense law firm offers a wide range of criminal defense, from OWI charges and drug possession charges to felony crimes, misdemeanor crimes, white collar crimes, criminal record expungements, and more. You can count on our aggressive representation to preserve your rights and protect your freedoms after being arrested for drunk driving or drugged driving in Indiana.

How to Get Started With a Meeting

Are you worried about your driving privileges and pending DUI criminal charges in Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with a seasoned DUI defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also represent defendants charged in Indiana but who live in another state.

Have You Been Charged With Felony Drunk Driving in Indiana?

Posted on September 6, 2022 by admin

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.

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.

Using Auto Brewery Syndrome For DUI Defense

Posted on August 23, 2022 by admin

If you are pulled over while driving, and the cop believes they smell alcohol on your breath, you will likely be asked to take to a breathalyzer test. This device measures and computes the amount of alcohol on a person’s breath. When you pass the breathalyzer test, you are generally free to go; however, if you do not pass the test, your car will be towed and impounded while you are arrested for a DUI (driving under the influence) and taken to jail.

Drunk driving charges, also known as DWI’s (driving while intoxicated) and OWI’s (operating while intoxicated), can lead to heavy fines, strict and mandatory probation and court orders, loss of driving privileges, and even jail time. But what if you fail the breathalyzer even though you haven’t had anything to drink? Perhaps you have Auto Brewery Syndrome.

Continue reading to learn more about this syndrome and what to do if you or a loved one is facing OWI charges right now.

DUI Attorney Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514 — Those with Auto Brewery Syndrome retain excessive quantities of yeast in their digestive system.

What is Auto-Brewery Syndrome?

Many Americans are not even aware that Auto Brewery Syndrome exists, but it can cause a person to fail a mechanical breath test. Basically, it is a disorder that causes a person to have an abundant amount of yeast in their digestive system. Large amounts of yeast can produce ethanol in quantities that can actually lead to intoxication. You could say that a person who suffers from this syndrome has a stomach that brews its own beer. Therefore, the syndrome can trick an officer into thinking a person has consumed alcohol even though they haven’t.

Not only do those with Auto Brewery Syndrome produce large amount of yeast, but they can also add to their yeast reserves by consuming foods and beverages that contain yeast. This includes wine, bread, tortillas, pitas, crackers, pizza crust, and more. Adding to the amount of yeast in their digestive system can also contribute to failing a breathalyzer.

Common Symptoms of Auto Brewery Syndrome:

▷ Dry Mouth
▷ Hangovers
▷ Dizziness
▷ Disorientation
▷ Depression
▷ Anxiety

There are several other health conditions that can contribute to falsely failing a breathalyzer test. Talk to your primary care physician if you are concerned that you may suffer from too much yeast or ethanol in your system. If you are facing criminal charges for a DUI, be sure to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to avoid being sentenced to the maximum penalties for your crime.

Are you currently facing drunk driving criminal charges in Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to speak with a skilled and aggressive DUI defense lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana. Act fast so that you may avoid the maximum penalties for your OWI charges.

Your Next Step After Being Charged With Drunk Driving Vehicular Manslaughter

Posted on July 13, 2022 by admin

Drunk driving is illegal for a very good reason. Vehicles, after all, are comparable to a 3,000 pound missile at speeds as low as 10 miles per hour. Under that, they are still heavy machinery that can cause a devastating amount of damage or bodily injury. Many drunk driving accidents result in the fatalities of other innocent drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Such accidents generally lead to a DUI vehicular manslaughter charge against the intoxicated driver. As a type of homicide crime, vehicular manslaughter is a very serious criminal charge that can end with long lasting consequences, including a lengthy stint in prison.

If you are facing drunk driving vehicular manslaughter in Indiana, continue below to learn the most valuable and critical step you need to take to avoid the maximum penalties for your charges.

Vehicular Manslaughter Lawyer Indianapolis Indiana 317-636-7514

Homicide and Involuntary Manslaughter

DUI vehicular manslaughter is a homicide and occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while intoxicated, and in doing so, unintentionally causing an accident that kills another person. Although it is not considered murder since it was not a deliberate, malicious, or premeditated act, the offense is categorized as a homicide because a person loses their life.

There are different types of homicides, including involuntary and voluntary manslaughter, reckless homicide, negligent homicide, and vehicular homicide.

A homicide is not always a crime, as is the case with self-defense. Criminal homicide, on the other hand, is causing the death of another, either by means of negligence, such as drunk driving, or willful intent, such as spontaneously killing a person that you catch sleeping with your spouse. This would be charged as voluntary manslaughter, which is aptly called the heat of passion crime.

Vehicular Manslaughter Laws

Vehicular manslaughter laws are divided into 3 distinct levels: vehicular manslaughter, vehicular homicide, and aggravated vehicular homicide. Vehicular manslaughter is when a driver causes the death of another person or their unborn child as a result of a misdemeanor traffic violation. Vehicular homicide is the same as vehicular manslaughter, but in two specific scenarios: as a result of driving negligence or speeding through a construction zone.

Aggravated vehicular homicide is also the same as vehicular manslaughter, but in three specific scenarios: as a direct result of A) operating a vehicle while intoxicated; B) operating a vehicle recklessly; or C) committing a reckless traffic offense in a construction zone.

DUI Manslaughter Charges and Penalties

Drunk driving vehicular manslaughter is charged as an involuntary manslaughter homicide, which is a DUI felony offense. Upon conviction, a defendant can be punished by up to 6 years in prison, with an advisory jail sentence of 3 years, plus suspended drivers’ license for 2 to 5 years and fines up to $10,000.

If you have been charged with drunk driving manslaughter, your next step is the most important one you will make in your life: hire a skilled and experienced Indiana criminal defense lawyer for aggressive DUI defense. They can preserve your rights and protect you from the maximum sentence.

Are you worried about your pending DUI charges in Indiana? Contact Attorney David E. Lewis at 317-636-7514 to schedule a free initial consultation with a seasoned DUI lawyer in Indianapolis, Indiana who will put your mind at ease with a strong and impactful defense. We also represent defendants charged in Indiana but who live in another state.