Being arrested for an Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated (OVWI) charge in Indiana can be overwhelming, but understanding the process can help ease some of the uncertainty. The legal process begins with the arrest, which occurs when law enforcement has probable cause to believe you were intoxicated while driving. Depending on whether a breath test or blood draw was conducted, the timeline for filing charges can vary, with breath test results being immediate and blood test results potentially taking weeks or months. Once charges are filed, an initial hearing will take place where you’ll be informed of the charges and potential penalties, which range from a misdemeanor with up to 60 days in jail to a felony with a maximum sentence of two and a half years. If you engage legal counsel early, you may be able to waive this hearing and avoid an unnecessary court appearance.
After the initial hearing, your case will move into pretrial conferences where evidence is reviewed, negotiations take place, and potential plea deals are discussed. The duration of the case depends on factors like criminal history, the complexity of evidence, and the court’s schedule. Eventually, you will need to decide whether to accept a plea deal or proceed to trial. A knowledgeable attorney will guide you through your options, ensuring you understand the implications of each choice. Since timelines can vary significantly due to court procedures and pending evidence, having an experienced legal team can make a crucial difference in navigating the process.