Northwest Indiana DUI Lawyers
Being charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (OWI/DUI) is a serious charge in Northwestern Indiana and Chicagoland, and comes with stiff penalties. These are even harsher for repeat offenders and for car accidents in which people died or suffered serious injuries. The Alvarez Law Office in Crown Point, Indiana defends DUI cases and has a notable record of success in avoiding jail time and having charges dropped or reduced.
You have the right to counsel, provided by the United States Constitution’s Sixth Amendment and by Article 1, Section 13 of Indiana’s Constitution.. Effective defenses are available when you choose the right attorney to represent you.
Being pulled over for a OWI/DUI can be frightening and humiliating. You may worry about what a conviction will do to your family and your standing in the community. Getting to work might be a problem if you lose your license, so you may be worried about how the bills will get paid. And you are probably worried about the possibility of doing jail time. At the Alvarez Law Office, we understand the emotional turmoil and stress that you are going through.
Defenses to OWI/DUI
The OWI/DUI defense lawyers at the Alvarez Law Office are experienced in applying effective strategies to refute drunk driving charges, which may, depending on the circumstances surrounding your arrest, result in the charges being dropped.
One defense strategy that we often use effectively is showing that the arresting officer lacked sufficient evidence to make an arrest. For example, we might make the case that the officer’s observations of bloodshot eyes or slurred speech could have another explanation, such as lack of sleep or allergies, and did not constitute sufficient evidence of drunk driving to warrant an arrest. We can also argue that the arresting officer did not have probable cause to pull the driver over.
If there was a significant amount of time between the time when the driver was stopped and the administration of the test for blood alcohol content, the BAC test may be shown not to have measured the BAC at the time the defendant was driving. That’s because alcohol takes time to enter the blood from the digestive tract. A person could have been under the legal BAC limit when pulled over, but over the limit 20 or 30 minutes later when the test was given. Therefore, the BAC level would not be proof of drunk driving.
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
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$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
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$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
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$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
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$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
Understanding The Consequences Of A DUI
In Indiana, the consequences of a DUI can be severe and long-lasting, affecting both your personal and professional life. First-time offenders can face license suspension, fines, or even jail time. Subsequent offenses lead to harsher penalties, potentially resulting in longer jail sentences, higher fines, and longer periods of license suspension. Additionally, a DUI conviction can lead to mandatory addiction treatment programs and the installation of an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.
Beyond legal penalties, a DUI conviction can also have financial repercussions, such as increased insurance rates. It can affect your ability to secure employment, especially if driving is a required part of your job. Understanding these potential outcomes underscores the importance of effective legal representation. At Alvarez Law Offices, our DUI attorney in Indiana is committed to achieving the best possible outcome to minimize these impacts on your life.
How Indiana's Implied Consent Laws Affect You
Indiana's implied consent laws mean that by driving in the state, you automatically consent to submit to a chemical test if law enforcement suspects you of DUI. Refusing this test can result in immediate license suspension and heavier penalties if you are later found guilty of DUI. It's crucial to know your rights and obligations under these laws. Having knowledge about these laws can empower you to make informed decisions if you find yourself in a DUI situation.
If you refused a chemical test, there are defenses that may still be available to you. It’s vital to consult with a DUI lawyer in Indiana who understands Indiana DUI laws to help navigate the complexities of your situation. At Alvarez Law Office, our drunk driving attorneys in Indiana provide guidance on dealing with the repercussions of refusing a chemical test and how it may affect your defense.
Q&A: Addressing Common DUI Concerns with a DUI Lawyer in Indiana
What Should I Do If I'm Pulled Over For Suspected DUI in Indiana?
When pulled over for a suspected DUI in Indiana, it’s important to remain calm and cooperative with the officer. Provide your license and registration when asked, but remember you have the right to remain silent and ask for legal representation. Avoid making self-incriminating statements or performing field sobriety tests if you feel unsure of your ability to pass them. The key is to ensure that you protect your rights and avoid escalating the situation.
How Does A DUI Affect My Insurance Rates in Indiana?
A DUI conviction often leads to significant increases in car insurance premiums. Insurers may consider you a high-risk driver, leading to elevated rates or even cancellation of your policy. It’s crucial to plan for these changes and consider shopping around for a new insurer specializing in high-risk policies, which might offer more competitive rates.
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The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
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This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
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My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
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Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
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Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
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Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
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The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
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- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
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I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
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I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
Protect Yourself & Your Family with a DUI Attorney
An OWI/DUI can interfere with your ability to support yourself and your family because the least penalty you can expect is the suspension of your license, which can, for some, make it impossible to commute to work. In these cases, a conviction could cause you to lose your job and your ability to care for those you love. A drunk driving conviction can also keep you from being hired for certain jobs in the future. The stakes are too high to rely on anything less than the best representation. Don’t accept a public defender, not because they are not skilled lawyers, but because their caseloads are so enormous they simply don’t have the time that we at Alvarez take to prepare a thoroughly researched and meticulously documented defense.
We defend the accused against DUI charges throughout Northwestern Indiana, including Crown Point, Merrillville, Hammond, Gary, Dyer, St. John, Griffith, East Chicago, Munster, Schererville, Valparaiso, Knox, Portage, Newton, Culver, and the entire Chicagoland area.
Don’t take chances. Contact the Northwest Indiana DUI defense lawyer at at Alvarez Law by calling (219) 300-5204 without delay, to protect your rights, your future, and your family.
