Defending the rights of the accused across Shelby 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 Shelbyville, Indiana can be an overwhelming experience that puts your freedom, finances, and future at risk. Under Indiana Code 9-30-5, OWI offenses carry serious penalties ranging from license suspension to potential jail time, and the consequences escalate significantly with prior convictions or aggravating factors. Many drivers are unaware that refusing a chemical breath test in Indiana triggers an automatic one-year license suspension under implied consent laws, regardless of whether a conviction ultimately follows. If your case is heading to the Shelby County Circuit or Superior Court, you need an experienced DUI lawyer who understands local court procedures and knows how to build an effective defense strategy. From challenging the legality of the traffic stop to questioning the accuracy of field sobriety tests, a skilled attorney can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and fight to protect your driving privileges and your record.
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. Shelby 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 Shelbyville, 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 Shelbyville 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 Shelbyville and Shelby County but across the surrounding communities and neighboring counties throughout Central Indiana. Our deep familiarity with Shelby 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 Shelbyville or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
A DUI attorney in Shelbyville, IN typically costs between $1,500 and $5,000 for a standard first-offense case, though more complex cases involving accidents or repeat offenses can range higher. Most DUI defense attorneys in the area handle these cases through flat fee arrangements or retainer agreements, which are outlined and discussed during an initial consultation. Many local attorneys offer free or low-cost initial consultations so you can understand the full scope of fees before committing to representation. It is worth reaching out to several attorneys in the Shelbyville area to compare pricing and payment options that fit your budget.