Facing a first-time DUI in Indiana can be nerve-wracking, but jail time isn’t a certainty—especially if the offense is a basic Class C misdemeanor, with a BAC under 0.15, no accident, and no reckless behavior. Indiana law allows for varying degrees of DUI charges, ranging from misdemeanors to Level 6 felonies, depending on factors like your blood alcohol content, whether you endangered others, caused a crash, or had a child in the vehicle. While a clean record and cooperative behavior often help keep first-timers out of jail, each case is influenced by the specific circumstances and the county in which it’s prosecuted.
Because Indiana’s 92 counties handle DUI cases differently, outcomes can vary widely—even for similar offenses. Some counties may be lenient, while others push for jail time, especially in cases involving aggravating factors. The best way to reduce your chances of jail is to act quickly, and work with a defense team that understands the system. At the Marc Lopez Law Firm, we help clients proactively demonstrate remorse, which can significantly influence how prosecutors and judges view the case.
