In Indiana, a person could be facing operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) charges for operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of at least 0.08% or any controlled substance in their body. According to statistics from the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI), there were 20,073 total e-citations for OWI offenses statewide in 2020.
However, many alleged drunk drivers are uninformed about their rights, obligations, or the next steps when arrested and charged with DUI/OWI. A highly-skilled Indianapolis criminal defense attorney can answer some of your frequently asked questions about DUI charges and help protect you from the worst possible scenario.
Why Choose Wruble Law LLC?
At Wruble Law LLC, we are committed to offering aggressive representation and reliable guidance to clients in their DUI/OWI cases. Our skilled attorney can evaluate all of the facts of your case and help strategize an effective defense to fight your drunk driving charges. In addition, we will represent you vigorously during the legal proceedings and help keep your record as clean as possible. Our firm proudly serves clients across Indianapolis, Marion County, and Hendricks County, Indiana.
Can I refuse the breath and/or blood test when pulled over on suspicion of DUI?
On suspicion of DUI, a police officer can ask you to pull over and request that you take a breathalyzer or blood test. Generally, you can refuse the preliminary alcohol screening or portable breath test at the roadside.
However, once you’re arrested and taken to the station, you must take a breath or blood test or risk losing your driving privileges for one year. Refusing a chemical test is a violation of Indiana’s Implied Consent Law. This may result in automatic license suspension and other legal repercussions.
If I’ve been charged with a DUI, will I go to jail?
Facing DUI/OWI charges in Indiana can be terrifying. A drunk driving conviction can result in massive fines, jail time, a criminal record, license suspension, and other life-changing ramifications. A skilled attorney can represent you diligently in your case, help protect your driving privileges, and ensure that you do not end up in jail.
Will I lose my license? How will I get to work?
If you’re convicted of an OWI in Indiana, you may likely lose your driver’s license. However, you might be able to get a hardship license for some specialized driving privileges while your license remains suspended. The hardship license will allow you to drive to school, work, or for medical care.
What should I expect during the hearing?
During the hearing or arraignment, the judge will read you your charges and explain your rights. Also, you will be asked to plead “Guilty,” “Not Guilty,” or “No Contest.”
- If you plead guilty or no contest, the judge will issue a sentence or impose the possible penalties.
- Conversely, if you plead not guilty, your case will proceed to a pre-trial hearing, discovery, and then trial. All the evidence against you will be reviewed to determine whether you’re guilty or not.
Will a DUI charge fall off my record?
If you’re convicted of a misdemeanor DUI or OWI in Indiana, it will remain on your record for between five and ten years. After the waiting period, you can seek a DUI expungement. In case of felony DUI convictions, your situation can become really complicated. This is why you need to fight your DUI charges.
Is it worth it to fight a DUI?
Fighting your DUI charges in Indiana is definitely worth it. A first drunk driving offense could possibly result in jail time of up to one-year, fines of from $500 to $5,000, and other devastating consequences. With your future, career, reputation, and every aspect of your life on the line, fighting your drunk driving charges is certainly worthwhile.
Are there any ways to reduce my sentence?
In Indiana, you may be able to reduce your OWI charge or sentence through the following:
- Voluntary completion of an Alcohol Rehabilitation Program.
- Having your charge reduced to an Indiana wet reckless charge.
Also, your attorney can explore your alternatives to going to jail or negotiate a reduced sentence with the judge or prosecutor on your behalf.
Is hiring an attorney necessary?
Trying to defend your drunk driving charges by yourself can expose you to the risks of getting convicted and suffering the maximum punishments. This is why hiring an attorney is crucial. A seasoned DUI defense attorney in Indianapolis can enlighten you about the nature of your OWI charges, craft a solid defense strategy for your case, and attempt to establish your innocence or get your case dropped or dismissed.
Wruble Law LLC Is An Advocate on Your Side
When charged with OWI, getting experienced guidance and representation is crucial to protect your rights and ensure that you don’t suffer devastating penalties. At Wruble Law LLC, we have the diligence and expertise to defend and represent individuals wrongfully charged with operating while intoxicated.
As your legal counsel, we can investigate your case details thoroughly, outline your best legal defenses, and dispute the accusation against you with substantial facts and evidence. Also, our attorney will fight aggressively to defend your rights and help you achieve the most favorable outcome for your unique situation.
Don’t face your drunk driving charges alone. Contact us at Wruble Law LLC today to schedule a simple case evaluation with a strategic criminal defense attorney. Our trusted lawyer can offer you the reliable representation and guidance you need to fight your OWI charges. We’re proud to serve clients across Indianapolis, Marion County, and Hendricks County, Indiana.