Indianapolis DUI Probation Lawyer
You have been convicted of a DUI in Indiana. This is your first offense. You realize you made a stupid mistake and just want to move on. You would really like to avoid jail time, if possible.
For many first-time offenses, the courts are fairly lenient. Even for DUI offenses, the judge may not sentence you to jail time. Instead, you may get probation.
Probation is a common penalty for DUI offenses in Indiana. It generally lasts 1-3 years and comes with strict rules that must be followed. If you are found in violation of court orders, you could face jail time.
Probation is not easy, but it’s preferable to jail time. Stay out of jail with help from the Indianapolis DUI probation lawyer at Rigney Law LLC. We can provide you with the best advice possible.
What is DUI Probation?
If you have been convicted of a DUI or OWI, your lawyer can ask the judge for probation instead of jail time. If the judge agrees, he will set the probation rules, which may include the following:
- You may not be allowed to enter liquor stores, bars, and even restaurants that serve alcohol.
- You may be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as often as the court wants.
- You may be forced to take a medicine called Antabuse, which makes you vomit if you swallow alcohol.
- You may have to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which means you will be required to take a breath test before you drive.
- You may have to report to a probation officer. This could be by phone or in person. This depends on the judge.
- You may have to take substance abuse classes or even go through an entire treatment program.
Depending on your situation, the judge may require you to do one, some, or all of the above throughout your probation period.
Is Probation Better?
As you can see, probation is not easy. You will have to follow a lot of rules and if you break one, there are no second chances. You’ll have to go to jail, which defeats the purpose of choosing probation in the first place.
Plus, keep in mind that probation can be very expensive. You’ll have to pay money for fines, alcohol or drug treatment, and an ignition interlock device for your vehicle. Make sure you understand your probation terms before making a decision.
Contact Rigney Law LLC Today
It is possible to get probation for a DUI offense. While probation is often preferable to jail time, following all the rules isn’t easy.
If you have been given DUI probation, you need to do your best to follow the rules or you could get punished further. If you have been accused of breaking the law while on probation, seek legal help from Rigney Law LLC. Our Indianapolis DUI probation lawyer will work hard to defend your case. To schedule a consultation with our office, fill out the online form or call (317) 623-0989.
