DUI A Results-Driven Attorney Who Has Your Best Interests In Mind

Accomplished DUI Attorney in Chesterton, IN

DUI & OWI Defense in Lake County & Porter County

Whether you are arrested for drinking or using drugs while driving, you need an experienced DUI lawyer in Porter County. I examine all aspects of the case to find the best strategy for each client, including exploring the possibility of having the charges reduced from OWI to possibly a reckless driving, public intoxication or even a dismissal. 

Call the Law Office of Adam Tavitas for trusted legal representation from an attorney with more than 20 years of experience. I have successfully handled DUI/OWI cases for many clients, including misdemeanor and felony charges.

I meet with clients at my Chesterton office, my Highland office by appointment, and can travel to you.

Got an OWI in Indiana? Call (219) 245-2655 now or contact us online for an experienced OWI lawyer to help you fight for your rights. 

Understanding Indiana's DUI Law

The state of Indiana refers to DUI as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), although many people still use DUI. If you or a loved one has been accused of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you need an experienced DUI attorney in Porter County to help you understand the law in Indiana and navigate the legal process.

In Indiana, motorists are prohibited from operating a vehicle with:

  • Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher
  • A BAC of .02% or higher, if under the age of 21
  • Any amount of a controlled substance listed on schedule I or schedule II
  • Intoxication with alcohol or drugs

The penalties for an OWI conviction depend on the circumstances of the case, level of intoxication, and whether there are any prior convictions.

Penalties may include:

  • Up to 60 days in jail
  • Fines of up to $500
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device for up to 60 days.

If you have a BAC of .15% or more, you could face up to a year of jail and fines of up to $5,000. Any conviction remains on your record permanently can be expunged after 7 years. Additionally, convictions stay on your driving record for 10 years.

When is an OWI a Felony in Indiana?

In Indiana, an operating while intoxicated (OWI) charge is a felony if the offender has three prior convictions for OWI or any other conviction that requires registration as a habitual traffic violator. Additionally, if someone causes serious bodily injury to another person while operating a vehicle under the influence, they can be charged with a Level 6 felony. If the offense results in the death of another, the charge is upgraded to a Level 5 felony.

If it is a Level 6 Felony, you could face:

  • Up to 2.5 years in jail
  • A $10,000 fine,
  • 360 hours of community service

License Suspension for OWI in Indiana

If you are convicted of OWI in Indiana, you may face driver’s license suspension. The length of suspension depends on if you have had prior convictions.

License Suspensions:

  • First offense – normally 180 days
  • Second offense – 1 year minimum
  • Third offense – 1 year minimum

If your license is suspended, you may be able to gain “specialized driving privileges” which can allow you to drive to vital locations such as work and school. An ignition interlock device (IID) may be required by the judge to obtain these privileges.

Local DUI Defense Tailored for Chesterton and Surrounding Areas

Living in Chesterton, IN, or nearby areas like Highland, means you are part of a close-knit community that values safety and responsibility. However, mistakes can happen, and if you find yourself facing a DUI charge, it's crucial to have a local attorney who understands the unique challenges and resources available in our area.

Chesterton residents often commute to larger cities for work, making the risk of encountering DUI checkpoints higher, especially during peak hours and weekends. The local law enforcement agencies, including the Chesterton Police Department and the Porter County Sheriff's Office, are vigilant in maintaining road safety. This means that even a minor lapse in judgment can lead to significant legal consequences.

One of the common pain points for Chesterton locals is the potential impact of a DUI charge on their daily lives. Losing your driving privileges can make it difficult to commute to work, attend school, or even run essential errands. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) offers specialized driving privileges, but navigating this process can be complex without proper legal guidance.

At the Law Office of Adam Tavitas, we are deeply familiar with the local court systems, including the Porter County Superior Court and the Lake County Circuit Court. We understand the nuances of local DUI laws and can help you explore all available options, from negotiating reduced charges to seeking dismissal when possible.

Our commitment to the Chesterton community goes beyond just legal representation. We aim to provide support and guidance to help you regain control of your life. Whether you are dealing with a first-time offense or facing more severe charges, we are here to help you navigate the legal landscape with confidence.

Don't let a DUI charge disrupt your life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Chesterton office or arrange a meeting at a convenient location for you. We are dedicated to helping our neighbors in Chesterton, Highland, and the surrounding areas protect their rights and secure their futures.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Indiana?

In Indiana, the legal limits for BAC are .08% for drivers aged 21 and over, and .02% for drivers under the age of 21. Operating a vehicle with a BAC over these limits can result in an OWI charge. Additionally, driving with any amount of a controlled substance listed on schedule I or II is also prohibited. It's crucial to have a knowledgeable DUI attorney in Porter County if you're facing such charges to help navigate the complexities of the law.

Can a DUI charge be reduced or dismissed in Porter County?

Yes, in some cases, a DUI charge in Porter County can be reduced or even dismissed depending on the circumstances of the arrest and the evidence available. An experienced DUI lawyer can examine the details of your case to determine the best defense strategy, which may include negotiating for lesser charges like reckless driving or public intoxication, or pursuing a dismissal if applicable.

What are the penalties for a first-time OWI offense in Indiana?

For a first-time OWI offense in Indiana, the penalties can include up to 60 days in jail, fines of up to $500, and the potential installation of an ignition interlock device for up to 60 days. The consequences can be more severe with higher BAC levels or prior convictions. It's essential to consult with a seasoned DUI attorney in Chesterton, IN, to understand the potential penalties and to seek legal representation.

How can an OWI affect my driving record in Indiana?

An OWI conviction in Indiana can have a lasting impact on your driving record. Convictions remain on your record permanently and can be expunged after 7 years. Additionally, they stay on your driving record for 10 years, which can affect your insurance rates and driving privileges. It's important to have a competent DUI attorney to help minimize the long-term consequences of an OWI charge.

What is implied consent and how does it affect DUI arrests in Indiana?

Implied consent in Indiana means that by holding a driver's license, you've automatically agreed to submit to a chemical test if arrested for DUI. This could be a blood or breath test. Refusing to take the test can result in a license suspension of one to two years. If you're facing an OWI charge, it's advisable to contact an experienced OWI lawyer in Lake County or Porter County to understand your rights and the implications of implied consent.

Can an OWI Charge Be Reduced?

In Indiana, an OWI charge can be reduced to a lesser charge called “wet reckless.” “Wet Reckless” is a plea bargain that reduces the operating while intoxicated charge to reckless driving. It is important that you speak with a Chesterton OWI attorney about your options and see if this is the right option for your case.

Preparing Your Porter County OWI Defense

I provide an honest assessment of each case and explain what you can expect. In OWI/DUI cases, it can be extremely difficult to have charges dismissed, especially if there is strong evidence to prove the charge.

Arrested for OWI in Indiana? Don't face your charges alone. Contact us at (219) 245-2655 to arrange your free consultation!

  • Case Dismissed Child Molestation Charges
  • Client Plead Guilty to Lesser Charge Child Molestation Charges
  • Not Guilty On All Charges Child Molestation Charges

    Real Reviews From Real Clients

      "Choose him and you will not regret your decision!!!"
      Adam is very professional and a nice person. He really works hard to get the best outcome for your case! Thanks to him I avoided prison time.
      - Brittany M.
      "Highly recommend Adam. His prices are reasonable and he wont nickle and dime you like other attorneys. He's fair, and looks out for you as a person. Thanks Adam!"
      Adam did exactly what he said he would and helped me with my felony traffic case to get my charges reduced, helped me avoid community service, and even helped me apply for a restricted driver's license so I can still drive until my suspension is up. He answers your texts/calls, provides great advice and thoroughly explains your charges and the course of action you'll take at court. He's a great criminal defense attorney. Highly recommend Adam. His prices are reasonable and he wont nickle and dime you like other attorneys. He's fair, and looks out for you as a person. Thanks Adam!
      - William
      "I would highly recommend Adam to any clients in need of an attorney!"
      Adam is an awesome attorney in all aspects that offered and delivered a lot of help and all that he promised when we had originally first talked. He is very affable, and always is very quick to get back to you and answer all of your questions clearly. I would highly recommend Adam to any clients in need of an attorney!
      - Natalie R.
      "Best Lawyer Around"
      Best lawyer around, point blank.
      - Eric
      "Very Impressed!"
      We recently hired Mr Tavitas to represent our son for a marijuana citation in Porter County. From our first phone call, it was clearly evident that he genuinely cared about our sons case. He was very upfront about the prospects of the case, the steps he would take and the approximate cost to us, which was very fair and reasonable. Mr Tavitas is incredibly accessible. If he misses your call, you will be getting a return call in a very short time. Being kept informed of everything going on in our case was very important to us and he delivered! Highly recommend Mr Adam Tavitas!
      - Carol D.
      "5 Stars… no doubt"
      5 Stars… no doubt…. I was charged with a LEVEL 2 in porter county…. With 8 other charges… i definitely lost hope till Adam took my case after going thru my discovery he got me comfortable enough to go to trail…. Long story short they didn’t want to & came with a offer I couldn’t refuse…. Adam is smart… strategic & knows what he’s doing…. He worked both angels first prosecutor now one of the best lawyers around from state charges to federal… & I promise he isn’t gonna sell you a dream
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      Great person to work with, fair prices but most of all, he likes to win.
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        Attorney Tavitas has appeared in nearly 100 jury trials in both state and federal courts.