5 Mistakes to Avoid After an OWI Charge in Indiana

Criminal Defense

Mar 28

Your first mistake doesn’t have to define your future—but what you do next might. I’m Nathan Vining, criminal defense attorney at Vining Legal, and I’ve helped Hoosiers statewide recover from Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charges. If you’ve been arrested for OWI, the shock hits hard—but it’s what happens next that can make or break your outcome. These are the five biggest mistakes I see clients make after a drunk driving arrest in Indiana. Avoid them, and you protect your rights, your record, and your future.

Mistake #1: Failing to Take the Charge Seriously

Some people think a first-time OWI is no big deal. That’s a huge mistake.

Even a first offense in Indiana can bring:

Up to 60 days in jail
Fines up to $500–$5,000
License suspension from 90 days to 2 years
Mandatory alcohol education or treatment
Skyrocketing insurance rates

An OWI isn’t just a traffic ticket—it’s a criminal charge that sticks to your record. Judges take it seriously, and so should you. Ignoring deadlines, missing court, or hoping it "just goes away" sets you up for disaster. The earlier you act, the more options you have.

Mistake #2: Not Hiring an Experienced Attorney

You wouldn’t operate on yourself—don’t try to navigate a criminal case alone.

Indiana’s OWI laws are technical and unforgiving, with strict deadlines and legal traps. An experienced OWI attorney can:

Challenge the legality of the stop or arrest
Review breath/blood test evidence for flaws
Negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentencing
Guide you through license reinstatement and court procedures

At Vining Legal, I’ve helped countless clients minimize or beat their charges. Prosecutors and judges know when you’re serious—and that starts with having strong representation.

Mistake #3: Talking About Your Case to Others

Talking feels natural—but it can cost you everything.

What you tell friends, post on Facebook, or joke about at work is not protected. Prosecutors can and will use your words against you. Here’s what to do instead:

Only talk openly with your attorney (that’s protected by law)
Don’t post about your case, your arrest, or your night out on social media
Avoid discussing your case with the alleged victim, your employer, or witnesses

A single text or status update can unravel your entire defense. Stay quiet—let your lawyer speak for you.

Mistake #4: Ignoring Alcohol or Drug Evaluations

If the court or BMV orders a substance use evaluation—get it done.

Indiana often requires OWI defendants to complete:

An alcohol/drug evaluation
Treatment programs, if recommended

Completing these can help you satisfy court requirements and show judges and prosecutors that you're taking it seriously and serve as a mitigating factor to help in negotiations.

Mistake #5: Driving While Your License Is Suspended

Driving during a suspension is a fast track to bigger problems.

If you get caught driving without a valid license, you could face:

New misdemeanor charges
Longer suspensions
Possible jail time
Difficulty getting hardship or specialized driving privileges

Don’t risk it. Ask your attorney whether you're eligible for restricted driving privileges and how to apply. I help clients do this all the time—it’s legal, it’s smart, and it keeps you out of more trouble.

Other Issues to Keep in Mind

An OWI charge can impact more than your record:

Jobs that require driving (CDLs, delivery, sales) may be at risk
You’ll likely need SR-22 insurance, which costs more
Missing court dates or paperwork deadlines can lead to automatic convictions

Comply with all court orders, show up on time, and let your attorney do the heavy lifting.

Conclusion: Protect Your Future—Don’t Make These Mistakes

A first-time OWI charge in Indiana is serious—but it’s not the end unless you let it be.

Avoid these five mistakes:

Underestimating the charge
Going without legal help
Talking about your case
Ignoring court-ordered evaluations
Driving with a suspended license

If you’ve been charged with OWI, act fast, get informed, and lawyer up. We can help you build a strong defense, protect your license, and move forward.

📞 Call (317) 759-3225 or schedule your consultation today. You’ve got options—we’ll help you use them.

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