Whether you’ve had one drink or ten, getting behind the wheel of a vehicle could lead to criminal charges for driving under the influence (DWI), operating while intoxicated (OWI) or operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OVWI). These are serious charges that carry serious penalties, which is why those charged with a drunk driving offense need an experienced Indianapolis criminal lawyer.
Penalties for Drunk Driving in Indiana
Regardless of whether it’s your first or third offense, conviction for drunk driving in Indiana carries the following potential penalties.
• Jail time of up to 60 days or a year if your BAC is .15% or higher
• Fines of up to $500 or $5,000 if your BAC is .15% or higher
• Suspended license for 180 days for a first offense and at least a year for subsequent offenses
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for up to 60 days and a year if your BAC is .15% or higher
If you’ve had a felony drunk driving offense within the past five years, you could serve from six months to two and a half years in prison and pay up to $10,000 in fines.
How an Indianapolis Criminal Lawyer Can Help
When making a DWI stop, law enforcement must follow the National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) manual for conducting DUI investigations. Experienced attorneys know the NHTSA guidelines and how they should be implemented. They also have a clear understanding of field sobriety testing requirements, the procedure for conducting breath tests and for properly maintaining portable breath testing devices (PBTs. Additionally, in regards to gas chromatography, they know the rules that go along with implied consent.
In DWI cases, you need an experienced Indianapolis criminal lawyer. As former prosecuting attorney and current member of the National College of DUI Defense, Kevin Potts has the knowledge and experience your case needs. Contact Potts Law LLC today to schedule your fee consultation 317-951-0087 OR fill out the convenient online form.
