Goshen DUI/OWI Lawyers

Driving under the influence (DUI) or operating while intoxicated (OWI) charges in Indiana carry significant legal consequences. Indiana law imposes strict penalties for impaired driving, including fines, license suspensions, and even jail time. If you are facing these charges, it is important to understand the potential ramifications and your legal options.

The experienced Goshen DUI/OWI lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC can significantly affect how your case is handled. Our legal professionals are well-versed in Indiana’s impaired driving laws and can provide valuable guidance. Whether it involves challenging evidence, negotiating plea agreements, or preparing a strong defense for trial, our team can help protect your rights throughout the legal process.

What Are the Penalties for a DUI/OWI Conviction in Goshen?

The penalties for DUI/OWI convictions in Goshen depend on several factors, including the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and whether there are prior offenses. For a first-time offense, penalties often include fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, and license suspensions. A BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered over the legal limit for most drivers, while stricter limits apply to commercial drivers and individuals under 21 years old.

Repeated offenses or aggravated circumstances, such as causing an accident while intoxicated, can lead to more severe penalties. These may include longer license suspensions, increased fines, mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device, and extended jail sentences. For felony DUI/OWI charges, the consequences are even more severe and may result in significant prison time and a permanent criminal record.

What Is an Administrative License Suspension?

In Indiana, individuals arrested for DUI/OWI may face an automatic license suspension if they fail or refuse a chemical test. An administrative license suspension hearing is a separate process from the criminal proceedings in a DUI/OWI case. The Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) oversees these suspensions, which typically last 180 days.

If you are convicted of a DUI, you may face a court-imposed DUI suspension. That starts at 90 days but could last longer. Our Goshen DUI/OWI lawyers may be able to grant driving privileges for clients with suspended licenses, depending on the circumstances.

How Can I Fight DUI/OWI Charges in Goshen?

Defending against DUI/OWI charges requires a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the arrest. Common defense strategies include challenging the validity of the traffic stop, disputing the results of chemical tests, and questioning the reliability of field sobriety tests. For example, certain medical conditions or environmental factors can affect a person’s performance on field sobriety tests, leading to false results.

Another approach involves examining whether law enforcement officers had probable cause to initiate the traffic stop. If it can be shown that the stop was conducted without reasonable suspicion, the evidence obtained during the stop may be inadmissible in court. Additionally, discrepancies in police reports or witness statements can also be used to build a strong defense.

Are There Alternative Sentencing Options for DUI/OWI Offenses?

In some cases, alternative sentencing options may be available for individuals charged with DUI/OWI first-time offenses. These options aim to provide rehabilitation rather than punishment and may include probation, alcohol treatment programs, or community service. To determine if a defendant is eligible, courts consider factors like the prior criminal record, the severity of the offense, and whether the defendant poses a risk to public safety.

Participation in programs like alcohol education or treatment may also be a requirement for individuals seeking reinstatement of their driving privileges. Successful completion of these programs can demonstrate a commitment to avoiding future offenses, which may result in reduced penalties. However, eligibility for alternative sentencing varies and is determined on a case-by-case basis.

What Are the Long-Term Consequences of a DUI/OWI Conviction?

After penalties are paid and potential jail time is served, Goshen DUI/OWI convictions can have far-reaching effects beyond immediate penalties. One of the most significant consequences is the impact on a person’s driving record, which may result in increased insurance premiums. Many insurance companies classify individuals with DUI/OWI convictions as high-risk drivers, leading to substantial rate increases or policy cancellations.

Additionally, a DUI/OWI conviction may appear on background checks, potentially affecting employment opportunities or professional licensing. This can result in disciplinary actions or job loss for individuals in certain professions. The social stigma associated with a conviction can also strain personal relationships and damage reputations.

What Should I Do After a DUI Arrest?

If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI/OWI, the officers may administer a breathalyzer test, field sobriety test, or a blood test. We recommend you cooperate fully, refusing to take the test results in immediate license suspension and other potential consequences. If you are over the legal limit or under the influence of drugs, you could be arrested.

It’s best to remain calm and to follow the officer’s instructions. You do have the right to remain silent and also have the right to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. We advise you to call our Goshen DUI/OWI lawyers as soon as possible to discuss your legal options.

Why Should I Seek Legal Representation for a DUI/OWI Case?

Facing DUI/OWI charges can be a devastating experience, especially when dealing with the legal system’s procedural requirements. Working with experienced Goshen DUI/OWI lawyers offers several advantages, including assistance with building a defense strategy, negotiating plea agreements, and skilled representation in court or administrative hearings. Experienced DUI/OWI lawyers can clarify the complexities of the case and identify opportunities to reduce penalties or achieve favorable outcomes.

Additionally, we can provide advice on meeting court requirements, such as completing alcohol education programs or complying with probation terms. With professional guidance, individuals charged with DUI/OWI offenses can make informed decisions about their cases and work toward minimizing the long-term effects of a conviction.

Goshen DUI/OWI Lawyers at Wilson & Kinsman, LLC Have Extensive Experience Handling Impaired Driving Cases in Indiana

Facing DUI/OWI charges is overwhelming and often confusing, but know that you are not alone. At Wilson & Kinsman, LLC, our Goshen DUI/OWI lawyers provide every client with personalized attention and advocacy throughout the process. For a free consultation, call 574-522-1900 or contact us online. Located in Elkhart and South Bend, Indiana, we serve clients in Marshall, Lagrange, Kosciusko, Laporte, Porter, Lake, Noble, Whitley, Elkhart, and St. Joseph.