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 have been charged with operating while intoxicated in New Palestine, Indiana, you are facing serious legal consequences under Indiana Code 9-30-5. This statute outlines penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony convictions depending on prior offenses and aggravating factors. Your case will likely be heard in Hancock County Superior Court, where local prosecutors take OWI cases very seriously. One critical detail many drivers overlook is that refusing a chemical breath test during a traffic stop triggers an automatic one-year administrative license suspension under Indiana’s implied consent law, regardless of whether you are ultimately convicted. This suspension takes effect quickly and requires a separate legal challenge from your criminal case. Having a skilled DUI lawyer who understands Hancock County court procedures and the nuances of IC 9-30-5 is essential to protecting your driving privileges and building an effective defense strategy. The right attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of 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. 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 New Palestine, 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 New Palestine 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 New Palestine 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 New Palestine or in a surrounding community, you will receive the same dedicated, results-driven representation.
FAQ
A DUI attorney in New Palestine, IN typically costs between $1,500 and $10,000 depending on the complexity of the case and whether it goes to trial. 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 so you can understand the full scope of fees before committing. It is worth reaching out to several local firms to compare pricing and find a payment structure that fits your budget.