Most people know a DUI conviction carries with it a suspension of your license. In fact, most of the drivers that come into the office were more concerned with the suspension than anything else. This is because you need your license in order to go to school or work. You can’t even grocery shop without your license.
That’s why so many DUI offenders call an Indianapolis DUI lawyer as soon as possible after their arrest. Things move quickly when it comes to these cases. You’ll be scheduled to attend your first hearing within days of your arrest. That’s why it’s wise to call the attorney sooner rather than later. They’ll need as much time as possible to prepare your case.
If you would like to know more information about how alcohol affects a driver, view this page.
The Penalties for DUI Involve Fines, Possible Jail Time, and a License Suspension
The penalties for DUI in Indiana are quite strict. At a minimum, you’ll be facing jail time, a suspension of your driver’s license, and fines. You’ll also have to install an ignition interlock device on your car. If you’re convicted of DUI, you’ll be facing the following penalties:
- Fines of up to $500
- Up to 60 days in jail
- License suspension of 6 months or longer
- Ignition interlock device for a period of 60 days
The penalties get much worse for people who have multiple DUI convictions. For example, if you were convicted of DUI in 2018 and again in 2021, it will be considered your 2nd offense. The fines will go up and so will the potential jail time. Subsequent convictions of DUI also carry a longer license suspension. If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is higher than 0.15, all these penalties are enhanced. For a DUI with a BAC over .15, the following apply:
- Jail sentence of up to 1 year
- License suspended for 1 year
- Ignition interlock device will be required for 1 year instead of 60 days
- Fines of up to $5,000
As you can see, these penalties are stiff. That’s why you need to hire an experienced Indianapolis DUI lawyer. They’ll fight to poke holes in the State’s case so they either get the charges dismissed or have the judge find in your favor.
Your Indianapolis DUI Lawyer May Be Able to Get a Hardship License
If it’s your first offense, there’s a good chance your Indianapolis DUI lawyer will be able to get the judge to approve a limited license. If you can prove that work or go to school and need to drive back and forth, they may honor your request. However, if you are caught using your car for any other purpose, you’ll lose the privilege and may face further prosecution.
Can Your License Be Suspended for Refusing the Breathalyzer?
Most DUI defendants ask their Indianapolis DUI lawyer if they can refuse a breathalyzer test. The answer is – yes. You absolutely have the right to refuse the test. Just keep in mind, Indiana is a consent state. When you accepted your driver’s license, you agreed to follow Indiana law.
If you refuse to take the test, your license will be suspended for a full year. Even if you’re acquitted of the charges, the suspension will remain in place. Your Indianapolis DUI lawyer can fight the suspension with the motor vehicle office. The court doesn’t have the authority or ability to change an administrative suspension.
Your Commercial License is Also at Risk
If you work as a truck driver and get charged with DUI, both of your licenses will be in jeopardy. Your personal driver’s license will be at stake, and you’ll face the penalties outlined above. Your commercial driver’s license will also be impacted. You could lose your job if you get a DUI. Trucking companies don’t want somebody driving their vehicles if they’ve been convicted of DUI. Rather than worry about your case, trust that your Indianapolis DUI lawyer will do whatever they can to get the best outcome possible.
Meet With an Experienced Indianapolis DUI Lawyer
Whether you’ve been charged with your third DUI or your first, you’ll be facing serious consequences. Even a first DUI can land you in jail for up to 2 months. Rather than risk this happening to you, call an experienced Indianapolis DUI lawyer. They can review your case and give you their opinion. They are familiar with the local prosecutors and judges. They can give you a better idea of what you may be facing. They’ll also try to negotiate with the prosecutor to get your charges dismissed or at least reduced.
