Highland Drunk Driving Lawyers

Defending Against DUI/OWI Allegations to Minimize the Consequences You Face

Like every other state, Indiana has strict laws against impaired driving. Authorities are regularly making arrests for drunk driving, and then prosecutors can file charges of operating while intoxicated (OWI), which is the same as driving under the influence (DUI) in other states OWI/DUI charges come with potentially serious and lasting consequences, so it is important to defend yourself however you can. 

DUI cases are serious matters, and you should always have an experienced Highland drunk driving lawyer handling your case. Contact the legal team at Arshad, Pangere & Warring as soon as possible if you are arrested for DUI.

Possible Penalties for DUI Convictions

Indiana law sets out maximum penalties for a first-time DUI offense. These penalties will increase if you have prior DUI convictions, if you are accused of causing an accident and injuries, or if you had a high blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.15 percent. The following are maximum penalties for a first-time DUI with a BAC from 0.08 to 0.15 percent without any accident involved:

• Class C misdemeanor conviction on your permanent record
• Fines up to $500 and court costs
• Up to 60 days of jail time
• Probation
• Suspension of your driver’s license for  up to six months
• Ignition interlock device installation on your vehicle

If your BAC was over 0.15 percent, the charges increase to a Class A misdemeanor, which can mean one year in jail and $5,000 in fines. OWI can be a felony for multiple convictions, having a minor in the vehicle, or causing serious injuries to someone. 

Having a DUI conviction on your record can also impact your job, finances, and personal life. This conviction can result in problems with the following and more:

• Keeping or finding a job
• Obtaining professional licenses or acceptance to higher education programs
• Losing your immigration status and facing removal proceedings
• Increased insurance premiums and other costs

These consequences can affect you for years after you finish a court-ordered sentence, so it is important to have a drunk driving lawyer working to limit the impact of a DUI charge on your life. 

Defending Against OWI Charges

There are different ways you can defend against an OWI/DUI charge, depending on the circumstances of your arrest. Only some examples of DUI defense strategies include:

• The traffic stop was unlawful
• You were ill, fatigued, or in another state that seemed like you might be impaired
• The officer did not properly conduct the breathalyzer test or field sobriety tests
• The breath test gave a false result
• The forensic lab did not properly process breath or blood samples
• Challenging the testimony of the arresting officer
• The prosecutor does not have sufficient evidence to prove DUI beyond a reasonable doubt

It is important to always mount an aggressive defense to prevent a conviction or to obtain a favorable plea agreement if you decide to plead guilty. 

Do Not Wait to Contact a Highland Drunk Driving Lawyer for Help

At Arshad, Pangere & Warring, we help clients facing serious DUI allegations. Our Highland drunk driving lawyers will be able to assess your situation and develop a strong defense. Contact us today to discuss how we can help you.