Defending the rights of the accused across Hancock County for decades. Proven criminal defense counsel for drunk and impaired driving charges, from arrest through trial.
Overview
If you are facing an operating while intoxicated charge in Fortville, Indiana, you need experienced legal representation as soon as possible. OWI cases in this area are handled through the Hancock County court system, where prosecutors aggressively pursue convictions under Indiana Code 9-30-5. This statute outlines serious penalties that escalate based on prior offenses, blood alcohol concentration levels, and whether minors were present in the vehicle. One critical aspect of Indiana OWI law that many drivers overlook is the implied consent rule. When you refuse a chemical breath test during a traffic stop, you automatically trigger a one-year license suspension regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted of the underlying charge. This administrative penalty takes effect independently of any criminal proceedings. A skilled DUI lawyer familiar with Hancock County procedures can challenge the traffic stop, question the validity of field sobriety tests, and negotiate on your behalf to protect your driving privileges and your future.
The Stakes
Indiana’s drunk driving laws are complex, and a DUI charge carries consequences that extend well beyond the courtroom, including license suspension and increased insurance costs. Under Indiana’s operating while intoxicated law (IC 9-30-5), a first offense is typically a misdemeanor, but penalties increase sharply for a high blood alcohol concentration, a minor passenger in the vehicle, or a prior conviction within the last five years, which can elevate the charge to a felony. Refusing a chemical test also triggers an automatic license suspension under Indiana’s implied consent law (IC 9-30-6), regardless of the outcome of your case. Hancock County courts also have specific procedural requirements and deadlines that can affect your defense if missed.
A skilled attorney will scrutinize the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breath test procedures for errors, and negotiate firmly with the prosecutor on your behalf, or take your case to trial if necessary. Without proper representation in Fortville, you risk facing the full weight of the charges without a defense built to protect your future.
Why Choose Us
What We Handle
A DUI Lawyer defends clients facing a first offense drunk driving charge, working to protect your license and minimize the impact on your record. RileyCate, LLC scrutinizes every detail of the stop and testing procedure.
Selecting Counsel
Not every DUI lawyer in Fortville has the scientific knowledge needed to challenge breath and blood test evidence effectively. Prosecutors know which firms will push for a plea rather than fight. When evaluating representation, look for a documented track record handling test suppression motions, license hearings, and DUI trials, not just volume of cases. Consider whether the firm has experience with your specific type of charge, as a first offense case and a felony repeat offense case often require very different defense strategies.
Ask how your case will be communicated to you, and by whom. Be cautious of firms that overpromise specific outcomes. Reputable DUI attorneys provide honest assessments, not guarantees. RileyCate, LLC was founded on a commitment to expertise, creativity, and results, and has never shied away from a courtroom when that is what it takes.
Our Office
Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Your Legal Rights
The Process
Selecting Counsel
RileyCate, LLC proudly serves individuals facing drunk driving charges not only throughout Fortville and Hancock County but across the surrounding communities and neighboring counties throughout Central Indiana. Our deep familiarity with Hancock County courts, local prosecutors, and breath testing procedures allows us to build a strong defense with precision and dedication. Whether your case is being heard in the heart of Fortville or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
A DUI attorney in Fortville, IN typically costs between $1,500 and $7,500 depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s experience, though more complicated cases involving accidents or repeat offenses can push fees higher. Most DUI defense lawyers in the area handle these cases through flat fee or retainer arrangements that are discussed in detail during an initial consultation. Many attorneys offer free or low-cost initial consultations to evaluate your case and explain their fee structure, and these consultations are widely available both in person and virtually. It is worth reaching out to several local attorneys to compare pricing and payment options before making a decision.