Like most states across the US, Indiana imposes harsher penalties for a third DUI offense.
Judges, police and prosecutors in Indiana take OWI/DUI offenses seriously and use a sliding scale of penalty to discourage drivers from operating while intoxicated. If you’re currently facing a third DUI conviction, you may be understandably worried about what consequences this will have on your life and driving freedoms.
Penalties for a third DUI in Indiana
If you have had two DUIs during the last seven years (in any state of the US), a third DUI offense is a level 6 felony. This has a maximum penalty of 2.5 years in jail and a fine of $10,000.
Additionally, there is a minimum of 10 days in jail and mandatory community service. You may also be expected to undergo a drug and alcohol assessment, with the expectation of carrying out appropriate treatment as advised.
Additionally, the court may find you to be a habitual traffic violator. This will result in license suspension for at least five years and additional charges of habitual substance offenses, carrying an additional jail sentence of between one and eight years.
Seeking legal assistance can help you lessen any penalties
There are steps you can take to mitigate the penalties you are given when facing a third DUI conviction.
For example, police don’t always get everything right and there may have been errors in your case that become clear when investigated. Judges also have discretion around what sentences they give and the fines they impose. They can take extenuating circumstances into account when making their decision.
When you find yourself in serious legal trouble, don’t hesitate to explore all your defense options.