OWI Cases in Indiana

In the state of Indiana, an OWI (operating while intoxicated) is generally a misdemeanor offense charged against an individual who measures .08 percent or above in blood alcohol concentration on a breathalyzer test or who demonstrates impairment in driving ability due to the consumption of alcohol or drugs. Drug-impaired driving can occur from any type of drug or medication, including therapeutic prescription medicines such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, painkillers, and more. Also included are over-the-counter medicines which cause drowsiness and illegal street drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or other narcotics.

In cases where blood alcohol concentration is .15 or above or where someone has been injured or killed in an alcohol-related traffic accident, penalties for a conviction can be dramatically increased. In cases where an offender has two or more prior convictions, he or she may face an additional 8 years of incarceration as a habitual substance offender. A prior offense within 5 years of a new offense may result in a felony OWI. Those with 3 OWI charges within a 10-year period may be slapped with a habitual traffic violator status, punishable by a 10-year license suspension, 3 to 9 months of jail time, and a lengthy probation.

First offenders can expect such penalties as license suspension, extensive court costs, probation, and restitution payment. Jail sentences are likely, especially for those whose breathalyzer tests measured .15 percent and above. Second offenders can expect license suspensions of 6 months to a year as well as other penalties such as probation, restitution, road crew service, or home detention.

Get Legal Guidance from a Fort Wayne DUI Attorney

To minimize the severe penalties attached to an Indiana OWI, it is highly recommended that you retain the legal services of an experienced and qualified attorney. Fort Wayne criminal defense attorney Gregory Miller provides skilled legal representation to those accused of OWI offenses; as a member of the National College for DUI Defense, he has received advanced training on the handling all of the legal aspects of these types of cases, which can be quite technical and complicated. To ensure that you have the best chance for a favorable outcome, you should contact the Law Office of Gregory Miller to arrange for a consultation as soon as possible following any OWI arrest.

Contact a Fort Wayne DUI lawyer for competent and skilled legal assistance following a drunk or drug-impaired driving arrest today.