Getting arrested for drunk driving in Hobart can leave you worried about your license, job, and future. If you are facing operating while intoxicated (OWI) charges, a Lake County criminal defense lawyer can help you understand what to do next. At The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC, we know how stressful this situation can be, and we are ready to stand up for your rights.
Why Choose Us at The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC?
When your freedom and driving privileges are on the line, you need a lawyer who will take your case seriously. Here is what we bring to your defense:
- Real trial experience: We have strong courtroom experience and will take a case to trial when needed.
- Personal attention: You work with an attorney who listens, explains your options, and treats you like a real person.
- Strong case review: We closely review the traffic stop, testing, police reports, and other details to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
What Should I Do If I’m Arrested for DUI/OWI in Indiana?
If you are pulled over in Hobart, stay calm and be polite. At the same time, remember that you have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about where you were, where you were going, or how much you had to drink.
Indiana also has implied consent rules. This means refusing a certified chemical test, such as a breath or blood test, can lead to a driver’s license suspension. Because these decisions can affect your license and your case, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
After the arrest, write down what you remember. Include where the stop happened, what the officer said, whether you took field sobriety tests, and whether a breath or blood test was used.
Penalties for DUI/OWI in Indiana
The penalties for OWI depend on your blood alcohol concentration, your record, and the facts of the case. A first offense with a BAC between 0.08% and 0.15% is often charged as a Class C misdemeanor. This can lead to jail time, fines, court costs, probation, and a license suspension.
If your BAC was 0.15% or higher, or the state claims you drove in a way that endangered someone, the charge may become a Class A misdemeanor. This can carry higher fines and more possible jail time.
Repeat offenses can be much more serious. If you have a prior OWI conviction within Indiana’s lookback period, the charge may be raised to a felony. Having a child in the vehicle or causing injury can also make the case more serious.
When Should I Contact a Hobart DUI/OWI Defense Lawyer?
You should contact a lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest. The state may begin building its case right away, and important evidence can be lost if not collected quickly. This may include dashcam video, bodycam footage, breath test records, and police reports.
A Hobart DUI/OWI defense lawyer can review whether the stop was legal, whether the testing was done correctly, and whether your rights were respected. Your lawyer can also help you understand license issues, court dates, possible defenses, and whether you may qualify for a specialized driving permit.
Call a Hobart DUI/OWI Defense Lawyer Today
If you were arrested for DUI or OWI in Hobart, do not face the court system alone. The Law Office of Joseph M. Roberts LLC can review your case, explain your next steps, and help you fight for the best possible result. Call today to schedule a free consultation.