If you have been charged with an operates while intoxicated (OWI) offense in Indiana, it is important to understand the possible penalties and defenses that may be available to you. An OWI conviction can result in mandatory jail time, heavy fines, and the loss of your driver's license.
The best way to avoid an OWI conviction is to not drink and drive. If you are going to drink, make sure to have a designated driver. If you are pulled over by the police, be polite and cooperative. Do not admit to anything and do not perform any field sobriety tests. These tests are not mandatory and can often be used against you in court.
If you are charged with an OWI, you should immediately contact a criminal defense attorney. An experienced attorney will be able to review the facts of your case and determine the best defense. In some cases, it may be possible to get the charges dismissed or reduced to a lesser offense.
Even if you are ultimately convicted of an OWI, there may be some options available to you. For example, you may be eligible for a conditional license that would allow you to drive to and from work, school, or medical appointments. You may also be eligible for an ignition interlock device, which would require you to blow into a breathalyzer before your car would start.
If you have been charged with an OWI in Indiana, it is important to take the charge seriously. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your rights and options and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you go to jail for OWI in Indiana?
Jail time for an OWI conviction in Indiana ranges from 3 days to 1 year. However, the maximum jail sentence you could receive is 1 year if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .15% or more.
Is a third OWI a felony in Indiana?
Yes, a third OWI is a felony in Indiana.
What are the penalties for a first offense DUI/OWI conviction?
There is no mandatory jail sentence for a first offense. Depending on the circumstances like a high BAC or having a minor in the vehicle can result in a jail sentence of up to 1 year.
What happens if you get an OWI twice in Florida?
If you get an OWI twice in Florida, you will be charged with a Level 5 felony and face a maximum fine of $10,000 and imprisonment for one (1) to six (6) years. All second-time OWI offenses carry mandatory minimum imprisonment of five (5) days.
How long do you have to go to jail for OWI?
If the person has one prior conviction for an “OWI type offense”, the judge must sentence him to at least 5 days in jail without“good time credit.” The judge does have the option of allowing the person to perform 180 hours of community service in lieu of the executed jail sentence.
