DUI Defense Lawyer

Serving Drivers in Indianapolis & Central Indiana

Rathburn Law Office, P.C. is a premier Indianapolis DUI firm that excels in defending drunk driving charges. Our seasoned attorney aims to minimize potential jail time by crafting robust defenses and providing you with personalized legal support at this critical time.

We understand that each case is unique and tailor defense strategies specifically to your situation, considering the intricate details of your offense and legal history. We meticulously dissect every element from the initial traffic stop, including chemical tests and breathalyzer results, to construct a comprehensive defense.

Our DUI lawyer engages in an exhaustive review of all evidence in DUI cases. This includes a thorough analysis of breathalyzer test results and arrest protocols. By challenging the evidence and pinpointing inaccuracies and inconsistencies, we can effectively challenge the validity of the evidence against you, thereby enhancing the strength of your defense.

Book a free virtual consultation in Indianapolis with our DUI defense attorney by contacting us online or at (463) 465-2401. Available 24/7.

Handling Misdemeanor & Felony DUI Charges

Rathburn Law Office, P.C. adeptly navigates both misdemeanor and felony DUI charges. We adeptly handle a spectrum of cases from first-time DUI offenses to second offenses and more severe repeat DUI convictions.

Our DUI lawyer explores every avenue, from plea bargains to rigorous court defense, giving your case the comprehensive and strategic attention it deserves.

Protecting Your Rights & Driving Privileges

At Rathburn Law Office, P.C., your rights and driving privileges are paramount. We understand the critical importance of averting license suspension stemming from Indiana DUI penalties.

We are dedicated to protecting your legal rights throughout the criminal justice process, working to secure reduced penalties or alternative sentencing to preserve your driving privileges and minimize the impact on your life.

DUI vs. OWI: Clarity on Indiana’s Legal Definitions

In Indiana, OWI is the legally correct term, while DUI is an informal term that people commonly use. Substantively, they refer to the same type of offense, but essential distinctions exist in how Indiana law defines and applies OWI.

OWI Is the Legal Term in Indiana

Indiana law uses the term Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), not DUI. The word 'operating' is broader than 'driving' and is intentionally defined to give prosecutors more latitude.

A person can be charged with OWI even if the vehicle is not moving, as long as the State alleges the person was operating the vehicle.

What “Operating” Means

Under Indiana law, a person may be considered to be operating a vehicle if they:

Are driving the vehicle
Are behind the wheel with the engine running
Have the ability to put the vehicle in motion

This means OWI charges can arise in situations where a person is parked, stopped, or not actively driving at the time law enforcement arrives.

How Intoxication Is Defined

A person may be charged with OWI if they:

Have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or
Are alleged to be intoxicated to a degree that impairs their ability to operate a vehicle safely

Indiana also has lower thresholds in certain cases:

0.04% BAC for commercial drivers
0.02% BAC for drivers under 21

DUI vs. OWI in Practice

While many people, including law enforcement and the public, use the term DUI, Indiana courts, statutes, and charging documents use OWI exclusively. There is no separate DUI offense under Indiana law.

Overview of DUI Penalties

In Indiana, the severity of penalties for drunk driving offenses escalates with each subsequent DUI conviction. Understanding these penalties is crucial, especially if you’re facing charges.

The impact on your personal and professional life can be profound, affecting everything from your ability to commute to work to your overall reputation. In Indiana, DUI penalties can vary significantly based on factors such as blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of arrest, prior DUI convictions, and whether any aggravating circumstances were present, such as causing injury or property damage.

For instance, a first-time DUI offense might result in a license suspension, mandatory alcohol education classes, and community service. In contrast, repeat offenses can lead to longer suspensions, higher fines, and mandatory jail sentences.

Felony DUI charges, which often arise from incidents involving serious injury, death, or multiple prior DUI convictions, carry even more severe penalties, including extended prison sentences and substantial fines.

Given these potential outcomes, having a knowledgeable and experienced DUI attorney by your side is essential. Our firm works diligently to examine the details of your case, challenge any evidence that was improperly obtained, and negotiate on your behalf to potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.

Navigating the complexities of DUI law requires a strategic approach and a thorough understanding of both state and local legal systems.

Our Services

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Client Experiences and Feedback

Call Us Today to Speak with a DUI Defense Lawyer

Facing a DUI charge or DUI conviction? We bring proficiency and a deep understanding of DUI infractions and the criminal justice system to the table.
Worried about license suspension, jail time, or DUI convictions? We focus on minimizing the impact of DUI charges on your life.
Need legal advice on field sobriety tests or chemical tests? We are skilled at thoroughly examining every aspect of your case.
Facing your first DUI offense or a more complex DUI case? Our DUI defense lawyer provides personalized legal strategies to safeguard your rights and driving privileges.

Don’t let a drunk driving charge define your future. Call (463) 465-2401 or reach out online for a free virtual consultation to discuss your case.

Statewide Accessibility
We represent clients throughout Indiana with virtual consultations that make high-level defense accessible without unnecessary travel.
Expert-Level Training
With advanced forensic education, instructor-level SFST training, and has been qualified as an expert in multiple states, our experience extends far beyond standard courtroom practice.
Decades of Experience
With over 30 years in practice, we bring seasoned judgment and refined strategy to every case, especially when the consequences are serious and long-lasting.
Science-Driven Defense
DUI cases rely on chemical testing and technical evidence. We focus on the science behind the accusation to uncover errors others may overlook.

Start Your Case Review

We offer virtual consultations to review DUI and traffic matters.

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