If you have been arrested for operating a vehicle while intoxicated (DUI / OVWI) you probably have a few questions about what happens next. Here are some typical answers to questions Attorney Marc Lopez is routinely asked by his clients.
What happens to my driver’s license?
If you blew into the breath tester and you came back .08 or more your license was most likely suspended immediately. This suspension is through the BMV and will last anywhere from 180 days to two (2) years. This happens even though you are considered “innocent until proven guilty.” This is what is called a DUI exception to the Constitution.
Additionally, if you refused the chemical test or blood draw your license was likely suspended when you went before a judge, usually before you are released from custody.
There may be an additional suspension if you are found guilty or plead guilty. Although it is considerably “un-American” to punish a person twice for one crime, in DUI / OVWI cases double punishment is allowed. Attorney Marc Lopez understands that your driver’s license is important. If you have further questions about your driver’s license please call Attorney Marc Lopez today at (317) 489-9611 or contact him through e-mail.
What happens if I drive while my license is suspended?
If you drive while your license is suspended and you are caught, two things can happen. If you do not have any prior driving while license suspended charges, your first one will likely be considered a non-criminal traffic infection. Your car will be towed and you will have to pay the ticket, impound fees and court costs. If you have a previous driving while license suspended charge or ticket within 10 years you will be charged with an A Misdemeanor. This is a criminal charge and carries the possibility of 1 year in jail. Additionally, there will be an additional driver license suspension.
If you have a truly terrible driving record, you could face much more serious charges.
If you have further questions call Attorney Marc Lopez today at (317) 489-9611 or contact him through e-mail.
I need to drive to work. What can I do?
After your driver’s license has been suspended for 30 days, you may be eligible to apply for a hardship license. A hardship license is available if a driver’s license suspension will cause a hardship to your family and you need a driver’s license in order to travel to and from your place of employment. This option is not available until after your driver’s license has been suspended for 30 days. Additionally, if you a have a prior conviction for DUI / OVWI you will not be able to obtain a hardship license.
If you have further questions about a hardship license please call Attorney Marc Lopez today at (317) 489-9611 or contact him through e-mail.
What makes Attorney Marc Lopez different than other Lawyers?
Attorney Marc Lopez brings experience to the table. Attorney Marc Lopez is a former DUI / OVWI deputy prosecutor with the Marion County DUI / OVWI Unit. Attorney Lopez was one of five deputy prosecutors handling all DUI / OVWI cases in Indianapolis. In addition to his experience as a former DUI / OVWI deputy prosecutor, in the past year Attorney Lopez has spent nearly 40 hours attending advanced DUI / OVWI continuing legal education courses taught by recognized leaders in the field. This is in addition to his attendance at National DUI / OVWI seminars. This additional legal education has focused on effective trial techniques in representing those accused of DUI / OVWI, the science behind the field sobriety tests, techniques on attacking the breath testing machine and challenging blood draws.
When you are facing criminal charges, you need someone who knows what they are doing. You need Attorney Marc Lopez. If you have further questions about Attorney Marc Lopez’s qualifications please call Attorney Marc Lopez at (317) 489-9611 or contact him through e-mail.
What is Attorney Marc Lopez’s approach to an OVWI / DUI case?
Attorney Marc Lopez approaches all his cases with the question, “What can be done to get these criminal charges dropped?” This approach takes time and effort. It often requires taking the formal statement of the officers. It often involves interviewing other non-police witnesses. It sometimes requires holding suppression hearings in front of the judge. Attorney Marc Lopez demands to know that the Government can prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. If Attorney Lopez is not convinced the State’s case is rock-solid, he takes that case to trial.
If you have further questions about Attorney Marc Lopez’s approach to DUI / OVWI cases please call Attorney Marc Lopez at (317) 489-9611 or contact him through e-mail.
How can I contact Attorney Marc Lopez?
Attorney Marc Lopez represents individuals accused of DUI / OVWI in Indianapolis and the surrounding counties. If you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment with Attorney Marc Lopez call (317) 489-9611 or send an e-mail. Initial consultations are always free.