Have You Been Accused Of Drunk Driving?

Drunk driving offenses represent some of the most common charges in Indiana’s justice system. People from all walks of life can be charged with drunk driving, and for many people a drunk driving traffic stop represents the first time they have been detained by the police.

At Sam Shapiro Law Office, I have many years of experience defending ordinary people who have been accused of drunk driving offenses. I understand the pressures you face when you have been accused of drunk driving, and I am skilled in the strategies that can help.

Harsh Penalties

Even for those who have been detained or arrested before, a drunk driving arrest can be a frightening experience. The police and prosecutors can be intimidating and the legal terminology utterly confusing.

The penalties for drunk driving offenses can be severe in Indiana. The first consequence can be a pre-conviction license suspension. A court appearance might be required. You may be eligible for a specialized driving privilege to prevent loss of your driver’s license. Ask Sam Shapiro Law Office if you qualify for such a privilege. 

For repeat offenders, some penalties become mandatory. A second offense can mean a jail sentence of at least five days and up to two and a half years. Additionally, there may be a mandatory license suspension of one year. 

A third offense can mean a jail sentence of at least ten days and up to two and a half years. A third offense may lead to a ten year license loss if you are a habitual traffic violator. Worst of all, if you qualify as a habitual vehicular substance offender, you may face one to eight years in jail, with one year as a mandatory minimum. 

Defending Your Future

When you are facing potential penalties such as this, it can be crucial to have the help from a skilled criminal defense attorney. At Sam Shapiro Law Office, I have extensive experience helping people charged with drunk driving offenses.

I look for ways to chip away at the evidence the prosecution will use against you. For example, I investigate the circumstances to see if the police made any mistakes when they arrested you. I investigate the chemical testing equipment and procedures to see if they can be trusted to give an accurate reading of your alcohol concentration equivalent (ACE).

And, if you have been found guilty, I work hard to minimize the penalties and the long-term damage a conviction can have on your personal and professional lives. I have helped many people get special driving privileges so a license suspension doesn’t prevent them from getting to work, school, worship, doctor and lawyer appointments, and other important functions.

Contact Me Today

If you have been arrested on suspicion of drunk driving, acting quickly can be vital to your chances of success with your criminal defense. Call my Bloomington, Indiana, law office today at 812-336-8192. You can also contact me by email. I offer a free initial consultation.