Bernhardt Phillips Attorneys

Call Today For A Free Consultation | 317-495-3718

Login
Bernhardt Phillips Attorneys

CALL

Focused On Your Success, Our Dedicated Indianapolis Legal Team Is At Your Service.

Trusted Indianapolis OWI Lawyer Protecting Your Rights And Driving Privileges

An Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charge in Indiana can affect nearly every part of your life. From possible jail time and fines to losing your driver’s license, the stakes are high. At Bernhardt Phillips, our Indianapolis OWI lawyer is ready to challenge the evidence, protect your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.

What Are The Penalties For OWI Charges In Indiana?

OWI penalties in Indiana depend on the facts of the arrest, including blood alcohol content, any prior offenses, and whether an accident occurred. These penalties can be severe, even for a first-time offense.

Here are some of the main consequences individuals may face after an OWI arrest:

  • Fines: First offenses can carry fines of up to $5,000
  • Jail time: Sentences range from 60 days to several years based on the severity of the charge
  • License suspension: Driving privileges may be suspended for 90 days up to 2 years
  • Ignition interlock device (IID): Courts may order IID installation at your own expense
  • Probation or monitoring: This may include alcohol education, community service, or compliance checks

The law also imposes harsher penalties for drivers with a BAC of 0.15% or higher, those with minors in the vehicle, or cases involving injury or death.

Refusing a breath test can trigger automatic license suspension, even without a conviction. Indiana’s implied consent law gives the state broad power to penalize refusal at the administrative level.

These penalties highlight why it’s essential to contact an experienced Indianapolis DUI attorney as soon as possible. A strong legal strategy may reduce or eliminate these consequences.

What Are Some Common Defenses To DUI/OWI Charges?

Every OWI case is different, but certain legal defenses can help challenge the charges. A careful review of the arrest details, testing procedures and police conduct can reveal important opportunities to fight the case.

Below are some of the most frequently used defenses in Indiana OWI cases:

  • Lack of reasonable suspicion: Officers must have legal grounds to stop your vehicle
  • Improper field sobriety testing: These tests are unreliable when administered incorrectly or under poor conditions
  • Breath test errors: Breathalyzers must be properly calibrated and operated to produce accurate results
  • Medical issues or medications: Certain conditions can cause symptoms that mimic intoxication
  • Flawed evidence handling: Problems with chain of custody or sample storage may call test results into question

An experienced OWI law firm in Indianapolis can evaluate whether any of these defenses apply to your case. Even a small procedural mistake by law enforcement may be enough to have charges reduced or dismissed.

Serving OWI Clients Throughout Central Indiana

Bernhardt Phillips, defends individuals charged with OWI across Indianapolis, Marion County, Hamilton County and Hendricks County. We handle a full range of drunk driving cases including:

  • First-time OWI arrests
  • High BAC and aggravating factor cases
  • Charges involving minors or injuries
  • Refusals of chemical testing
  • Repeat offender allegations

Every case we take starts with a detailed review of the facts. As your defense team, our focus is on protecting your record, your license and your future.

Facing OWI Charges In Indiana? Call Us.

Contact Bernhardt Phillips, at 317-495-3718 or send us a message online to speak with a knowledgeable Indianapolis OWI lawyer. It’s best to consult with one of our attorneys for personalized guidance on your situation.