A DUI in Indiana isn’t “just a ticket”—it’s a criminal charge that can carry serious consequences even if no one was hurt. Legally called Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated (OVWI), this offense can lead to jail time, license suspension, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A first-time DUI may start as a Class C misdemeanor, but if the court believes your driving “endangered” others—through speeding, swerving, or similar risky behavior—it can become a Class A misdemeanor with up to a year in jail. Even a high blood alcohol content (BAC) alone (0.15 or higher) can increase the severity of the charge, regardless of how safely you were driving.
Because DUI cases involve legal definitions, police conduct, and scientific evidence, they’re rarely straightforward. At the Marc Lopez Law Firm, every detail—from the traffic stop to the BAC test—is scrutinized to find weaknesses in the state’s case. Not all traffic mistakes qualify as “endangerment,” and not every DUI arrest is valid. The firm’s attorneys focus on OWI/DUI defense, fighting to protect clients’ rights and help them earn a second chance. If you’ve been charged, don’t dismiss it as a minor issue—get experienced legal help immediately to protect your future.