Defend Indiana

Call Us Today: 888-318-1594

Email
CALL
Defend Indiana

Together, Our Attorneys’ Combined Strengths Make Them a Formidable Defense Team for Clients Throughout Indiana

Together, Our Attorneys’ Combined Strengths Make Them a Formidable Defense Team for Clients Throughout Indiana

Defending Yourself After Drunk Driving/OWI Charges In Indiana

One poor decision to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is enough to have consequences for your entire future. Indiana courtrooms take operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) charges very seriously, and the sentencing for these charges is severe. Despite how grave the situation might seem, it is still possible to defend yourself against these charges with the help of a skilled criminal defense team.

Defend Indiana, LLC, offers a team of criminal defense attorneys, all dedicated to protecting you. We know how damaging these charges can be, and we want to be the ones who help you pursue the outcome you deserve in your case.

How Indiana Defines OWI

The state defines operating while intoxicated (OWI) as a person driving a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher. OWI is commonly known as DUI or DWI in other states. This threshold is a standard measure used to determine impairment. Drivers under the influence of drugs that impair their ability to drive can also face OWI charges.

Aggravating Factors Increase The Penalties

Certain aggravating factors can enhance the penalties for an OWI offense in Indiana. These factors include:

  • Having a BAC of .15% or greater
  • Transporting a passenger under 18
  • Causing serious bodily injury or death
  • Having a prior OWI conviction
  • Causing the death of a law enforcement animal

These result in longer jail sentences, higher fines and extended license suspensions.

What An Indiana DWI/OWI Conviction Can Mean For You

The charges you are facing today will vary depending on how many prior convictions you have on your record.

  • First offenses can result in sentencing up to $5,000 in fines plus hundreds more in court fees, up to two years of license suspension, and up to one year in jail.
  • A second offense in Indiana within seven years is a Level 6 felony, carrying a prison sentence of six months to two and a half years and fines of up to $10,000.
  • A third offense will escalate to $10,000 in fines, up to 10 years of license suspension, and up to three years in prison.

Because one charge can make future charges worse, it is vital that you choose legal representation who knows how to keep your record clean as possible. For more information on Indiana’s Impaired Driving Laws, visit the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute website.

Why You Need An Experienced OWI Defense Lawyer

Many people, especially those facing a first offense, make the mistake of representing themselves or settling for a court-appointed attorney in these cases. Our lawyers have decades of experience in these cases and have made careers of representing clients throughout the challenges of their OWI charges and other serious traffic violations. As your legal representation, we look at all angles to seek the best available results in your case.

First, we gather all the information in your situation to develop defense strategies like proving police error; lack of or unreliable evidence; or establishing that you were not illegally driving at the time of your arrest and were only above the legal limit when tested later on. Additionally, we are ready to pursue negotiations to reduce your charges or maximize a plea deal if that’s the best option for you. No matter what your case needs are, we are here for you every step of the way.

Indiana OWI Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few questions we often get asked during an initial consultation:

How do attorneys defend against an OWI in Indiana?

Defending against an OWI in Indiana involves several strategies. Common defenses include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results and scrutinizing police procedures for any errors. Additionally, medical conditions or external factors that could have affected the BAC reading should be considered. Consulting with an experienced OWI attorney is crucial because they can help navigate the complexities of the case and identify the best defense strategy based on the specifics of the case.

Do I immediately lose my license after an OWI in Indiana?

Your driving privileges are generally suspended at your initial hearing. This suspension can occur immediately following the arrest, depending on the judge’s decision and the availability of test results. However, there are provisions for obtaining specialized driving privileges to allow essential driving, such as for work or school.

How long does an OWI stay on my record in Indiana?

An OWI conviction in Indiana remains on your driving record permanently. While the conviction will always be visible on your record, the impact on your criminal record and potential penalties for future offenses can be more severe if the offenses occur within a specific period, typically seven years. This permanent record can affect various aspects of your life, including employment opportunities and insurance rates.

Start Your Defense With Defend Indiana, LLC

If you are facing OWI charges, remember that the best defense is a great offense. Our aggressive representation can make the difference you are looking for in your case, so contact our office by calling 888-318-1594 or emailing us here. We serve clients across Indiana, and we are ready to defend your rights and future.