Have you been charged with a DUI in Indiana? It can be an overwhelming and frightening experience, but it’s important to remember that there may be options for getting your DUI charges dropped. A DUI conviction in Indiana can have serious negative consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
However, there are ways an attorney can convince the prosecution to drop your DUI charges. We’ll explore some of these grounds and explain how an experienced Indianapolis DUI lawyer can help you fight your case and avoid the harsh penalties associated with a conviction.
If you would like to know more information about the types of DUI field tests, view this page.
A DUI Conviction in Indiana Has Serious Negative Consequences
Indiana DUI laws are strict and carry severe consequences. The penalties for a first-time DUI conviction include up to 60 days in jail and fines of up to $500, plus court costs and fees. In addition, your driver’s license may be suspended for up to two years.
For subsequent offenses, the penalties increase significantly. A second DUI conviction carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five days in jail, while a third or subsequent conviction can result in imprisonment for one year or more.
In addition to the legal penalties, a DUI conviction can have lasting personal and professional consequences. It can impact your employment opportunities, educational prospects, and even your ability to obtain housing.
That’s why it’s crucial to take any DUI charge seriously and seek the help of an experienced Indianapolis DUI lawyer who can fight on your behalf against these serious charges.
An experienced lawyer knows that some errors committed by law enforcement officers can void the charges. These are:
No Probable Cause for Being Pulled Over
One of the frequent grounds for getting DUI charges dropped is if there was no probable cause for being pulled over. This means that the police officer did not have a valid reason to stop your vehicle, making any evidence gathered after the stop inadmissible.
Probable cause typically arises when an officer observes a traffic violation or witnesses suspicious behavior by the driver. However, sometimes officers make mistakes and pull someone over without reasonable suspicion, such as pulling someone over simply because they were driving at night or because of their race.
If you believe that you were pulled over without probable cause, it is important to speak with an experienced Indiana DUI lawyer who can review your case and determine whether this defense could be successful.
Keep in mind that even if there was no probable cause for your initial stop, other factors may still lead to a conviction. That’s why it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side, who can help build a strong defense strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of your case.
Errors in Administering the Breathalyzer Test
Another valid reason for getting DUI charges dropped is due to errors in administering the breathalyzer test. This type of test measures a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) by analyzing their breath sample. However, there are various factors that can affect the accuracy of this test.
For example, if the device was not calibrated correctly or was malfunctioning at the time of testing, it could produce false readings. Additionally, if an individual has certain medical conditions or uses certain products such as mouthwash containing alcohol before taking the test, this too can impact its validity.
Furthermore, some officers may not have been properly trained on how to administer these tests and interpret their results. They may rush through the process or fail to follow proper protocol for obtaining a valid sample.
If any errors were made during your breathalyzer test and you were charged with a DUI as a result, an experienced Indiana DUI lawyer may be able to get your charges dropped. They will thoroughly investigate all aspects of your case and use any inconsistencies found in testing procedures as part of your defense strategy.
The Officer Was Not Trained in Administering a Field Sobriety Test
If you were pulled over for a suspected DUI and the officer administered a field sobriety test, it’s important to know that there are specific training requirements for officers in order to administer this test properly.
Field sobriety tests can include tasks such as walking in a straight line or standing on one leg, but if an officer is not trained correctly, they may improperly administer these tests which can lead to inaccurate results.
This is where an experienced Indiana DUI lawyer comes into play. They will be able to investigate whether the officer who administered your field sobriety test was properly trained and certified to do so. If they weren’t, then this could be grounds for getting your charges dropped.
It’s important to have a knowledgeable legal professional on your side when fighting DUI charges because they understand all of the potential areas where mistakes can occur during the arrest process.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to an Indianapolis DUI lawyer if you believe that the improper administration of a field sobriety test played a role in your arrest.
An Experienced Indiana DUI Lawyer May Be Able to Get Your DUI Charges Dropped!
If you find yourself facing DUI charges in Indiana and believe that any of these grounds for getting the charges dropped may apply to your case, it is important to consult with an experienced Indianapolis DUI attorney at Rathburn Law Office P.C..
We can help build your defense and potentially get your charges dropped or reduced. With our knowledge and expertise of the legal system, they will fight on your behalf and work towards achieving the best possible outcome for you.
Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule a free case review with us! You can contact us online or call 317-671-8965!
