Defending the rights of the accused across Marion County for decades. Proven criminal defense counsel for drunk and impaired driving charges, from arrest through trial.
Overview
Facing an operating while intoxicated charge in Indianapolis requires immediate legal guidance from an experienced DUI lawyer who understands the complexities of Indiana law. Under IC 9-30-5, an OWI conviction can result in severe penalties ranging from license suspension to significant jail time depending on the circumstances and any prior offenses. Marion County courts handle a high volume of these cases, and prosecutors in this jurisdiction are known for pursuing aggressive outcomes. One critical aspect that many drivers overlook is the implied consent law. If you refuse a certified breath test during a traffic stop, you face an automatic one-year license suspension that is separate from any criminal penalties. This administrative consequence takes effect regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted. Having a knowledgeable attorney by your side from the very beginning can make a significant difference in protecting your driving privileges and building the strongest possible defense for your case.
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. Marion 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 Indianapolis, 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 Indianapolis 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 Indianapolis and Marion County but across the surrounding communities and neighboring counties throughout Central Indiana. Our deep familiarity with Marion 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 Indianapolis or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
A DUI attorney in Indianapolis typically costs between $1,500 and $10,000 depending on the complexity of the case and the attorney’s experience, with more serious charges or repeat offenses pushing costs toward the higher end. Most DUI defense lawyers in Indianapolis handle these cases through flat fee or retainer arrangements rather than hourly billing, which gives clients a clearer picture of total costs from the start. These fee structures and payment options are usually discussed in detail during an initial consultation, and many Indianapolis DUI attorneys offer free or low-cost consultations to help potential clients understand their legal options. It is worth reaching out to multiple attorneys to compare fees and find a good fit since consultation availability varies by firm but appointments can often be scheduled quickly given the time-sensitive nature of DUI cases.