Why It Is Vital To Hire An Indiana OWI Lawyer

By Rosella Campbell


Each year an astonishing number of people are arrested because they have been driving under the influence of alcohol. This is a serious offence and being arrested can have far reaching consequences for the person arrested as well as his family. However, anybody that gets arrested enjoys certain basic rights, including the right to remain silent. The best thing to do in such circumstances is to immediately obtain the services of an Indiana OWI lawyer.

The acronym stands for Operating While Intoxicated. It is much the same thing as DUI, Driving Under the Influence but there are differences. Operating refers to the handling of any mechanical device, not just a motor vehicle. It may, for example, include a bulldozer or a farm implement. However, attorneys that specialize in DUI cases are normally willing to take on other cases related to intoxication.

Strangely, so many people view this type of offence as less serious. They do not feel as if they are criminals, but rather that they have been unfortunate to get caught. Such an attitude undermines the integrity of the law. People driving while drunk endanger not just their own lives, but also those of innocent bystanders. If found guilty, the accused may lose his job, place immense strain on his family live, have his license suspended and may even spend time in jail.

Many offenders do not realize how serious their position is. They make statements and often they even admit guilt. This can have serious consequences and can make it very difficult for the attorney to handle the case. The first and only step and arrested person should take is to get the services of an experienced DUI attorney. Nothing must be said before instructions are received from the attorney.

Those arrested will also do themselves a favor by cooperating with the police. Officers are used to deal with aggressive drunken drivers that use abusive language. The only victim of such behavior will be the arrested, however. Those that cooperate are more likely to be treated civilly. No accused should ever contemplate offering a police officer a bribe. This can lead to additional charges and a criminal conviction.

The first priority of the attorney will be to arrange for bail. Many arrests take place at night and it is sometimes difficult to make bail arrangements. If granted, the bail amount has to be paid before the offender can be released. If sufficient cash is not available, the attorney will be able to help arrange for the services of a bail bondsman.

DUI attorneys often manage to arrange for plea bargain agreements. Many prosecutors will accept such an agreement, especially when the court calendar is under pressure. If guilty, it is better for the accused to plead guilty and to accept the punishment. In the majority of cases the accused does not even appear in court. This is far better that going through the ordeal of a court case.

Being arrested is stressful and it can have serious consequences. Driving under the influence is a serious offence and one that could easily be avoided. When contemplating drinking and driving it may be a good idea to think about the dire consequences that may result from such a foolish decision.




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