Get An Aggressive Defense Against Drunk Driving Charges
Whether you call it DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol), DWI (driving while intoxicated) or OWI (operating a vehicle while intoxicated), the consequences of a drunk driving conviction can be severe.
Do not let a drunk driving charge send you to jail or take away your driver’s license without a fight. Instead, turn to my law firm, Matthew D. Barrett, P.C. Attorney at Law, in Logansport. I’m a DUI defense attorney with nearly 20 years of legal experience. I will work vigorously to defend your rights and freedom.
From pursuing pretrial motions or plea negotiations to fighting the charges at trial, you can count on me to do everything possible to either get the charges dismissed or mitigate the consequences of a conviction. In addition to DUI/DWI/OWI defense, I also handle:
- Driver’s license suspensions: Protecting your driving privileges or pursuing a hardship license to drive to and from work.
- Other alcohol-related offenses: Defending against underage drinking, vehicular manslaughter, child endangerment and more.
- Traffic violations: Handling charges of reckless driving, driving as a habitual traffic violator, driving with a revoked license and more.
Investigating Your Traffic Stop And Arrest
As your lawyer, I will carefully sift through the evidence and determine if law enforcement violated any of your constitutional rights during the traffic stop or arrest. From subpoenaing law enforcement’s video footage to analyzing the maintenance records of the Breathalyzer machine or challenging the validity of the field sobriety test, I will leave no stone unturned in your defense. We are not a plea bargaining mill — I am ready and able to try cases in order to obtain the best results.
Five Important Things To Avoid In DUI Cases
- Do not speak to law enforcement about the case – you have the right to remain silent, so use it.
- Do not attempt to represent yourself.
- Do not plead guilty without consulting a skilled lawyer.
- Do not act disrespectfully to the police, the court staff or the judge.
- Do not dress carelessly for court – make the effort to look your best.
What Is The Penalty For DUI In Indiana?
The penalties for DUI depend on the type of charge: whether it’s a first or repeat offense, how recent your prior offense occurred and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
Generally speaking, the penalties for a DUI conviction could include:
- Jail time of up to a year or more for serious offenses
- Fines totaling up to $10,000 for a felony or $5,000 for a misdemeanor
- Suspension of your driver’s license for up to two years, or permanently in certain cases
- Court fees and license reinstatement costs that quickly add up
- Installation of an ignition interlock device for up to a year
I can advise you of the specific penalties that may be applicable in your case.
How Long Does A DUI Stay On Your Driving Record?
Traffic points for a DUI in Indiana will stay on your driving record for two years. However, note that if you get more than one DUI charge within a 10-year period, you will face stiffer charges with harsher criminal penalties.
How Long Is A License Suspended For A DUI In Indiana?
A DUI arrest leads to automatic suspension of your driver’s license, which takes place before you even get convicted. The length of the suspension depends on the nature of the charge:
- A first offense will generally result in a suspension for 180 days. However, you may be eligible for a hardship license (“specialized driving privileges”) if you take swift action to protect your driving privileges.
- A repeat offense will result in a suspension of 1-2 years.
- A chemical test refusal will result in a one-year suspension.
- A chemical test refusal with a prior DUI conviction will result in a two-year suspension.
Keep in mind that you will have to pay additional fees to reinstate your license after a suspension.
Learn How I Can Help Fight Your DUI Charges
I invite you to call 574-516-6188 or toll-free at 574-516-6188 to talk about your DUI case. You can also contact me by email to schedule a free initial consultation. Weekend appointments are available upon request. I can also visit you in jail or elsewhere by appointment. In addition, I am cost-sensitive and offer payment plans for any applicable trial fees.