Fort Wayne Multiple DUI Offense Lawyer
Have You Been Charged with a Repeat DUI in Allen County, Whitley County, Or DeKalb County?
While generally charged as a misdemeanor, operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) in Indiana is a serious matter that can lead to various penalties even in a first offense. However, if you are convicted for a second or third offense within a certain timeframe, you will be facing an even harsher charge with even stiffer penalties. Having an experienced OWI defender on your side is then even more critical if you wish to increase your chances of an optimum outcome.
At Watkins Law Firm, our Fort Wayne multiple DUI offense attorney brings advanced training and over 10 years of experience dedicated to representing OWI defendants. Experience, knowledge, and strong legal skills are key in fighting OWI charges which is especially true when those charges have advanced to the level of a felony. If you or someone you know has been charged with a second, third, or subsequent DUI, we strongly urge you to seek the counsel of Attorney John Watkins who has a thorough understanding of how to create effective defense strategies on your behalf.
Find out how we can defend you against multiple DUI charges. Contact Watkins Law Firm for a free case review at (260) 908-9898 or via our online request form.
Second & Subsequent DUI/OWI Charges in Indiana
Each subsequent DUI/OWI charge in Indiana after a first offense can lead to enhanced penalties. If you are convicted of a second OWI within five years of your previous one, you will be charged with a Level 6 felony as opposed to a misdemeanor.
Penalties for this felony can include:
- Jail time of six months up to two and one-half years with a minimum sentence of five days or community service ranging from 240 to 360 hours
- A fine of up to $10,000
- A license suspension that can range from six months up to two and one-half years
- Probation
- An ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle at your own expense while you are on probation
- Alcohol or drug evaluation with a potential for drug or alcohol abuse education or counseling
A third offense can also be charged as a Level 6 felony with similar penalties as above. However, the minimum time in jail may be increased to 10 days or the community service hours increased up to 480. In both a second and third offense, the charge can be enhanced to a Class 5 felony if your previous conviction caused serious injury or death to another. Level 5 felonies are punishable by one up to five years of imprisonment along with fines of up to $10,000.
You may also face the seizure of your vehicle when convicted of subsequent OWIs within the previous five years.
If you are convicted of multiple DUIs, the court can also determine that you are a habitual vehicular substance offender which can lead to extended sentencing.
When facing a second or subsequent OWI in Indiana, the stakes are much higher than in a first offense. Because of this, it is vital that you seek the representation of an attorney who can put together an aggressive defense strategy. At Watkins Law Firm, we know how to examine the evidence against you in search of any weaknesses that can undermine the prosecutor’s case.
Let us put our extensive experience and insight to work for you. Contact our Fort Wayne multiple DUI offense attorney online or at (260) 908-9898 for a free case analysis today.
WHy Choose Watkins Law Firm?
We Advise You Every Step of the Way
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Extensive Legal Experience on DUI/OUI Cases & Criminal Defense
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John Watkins Teaches Seminars to Other Lawyers How to Defend DUI Cases
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Direct Access to Attorneys From Start to Finish
