Hands-Free & Cell Phone Tickets in Fort Wayne

A Tailored Defense for Your Fort Wayne Cell Phone Citation

A citation for holding a phone, texting while driving, or violating Indiana’s hands-free law can affect more than the amount printed on the ticket. Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C. represents Fort Wayne drivers facing these allegations and other traffic violations. We develop a defense based on the citation, the circumstances of the stop, and the available evidence.

Our attorneys bring more than 75 years of combined experience representing clients in state and federal courts. We explain potential outcomes and options in plain language so you can make informed decisions without false promises.

Call (888) 912-7220 for a free review of your Fort Wayne cell phone citation.

What Indiana Law Prohibits Behind the Wheel

The hands-free law took effect on July 1, 2020. Indiana Code 9-21-8-59 generally prohibits a driver from using a telecommunications device from the driver’s seat while a motor vehicle is in motion. A telecommunications device includes phones and similar electronic devices covered by the statute.

The central distinction is whether the driver manually used the device. Holding a phone to make a call, entering text, or manually operating navigation can support a citation. The general rule permits hands-free or voice-operated technology, and a driver may use a device to call 911 and report an emergency.

The exact allegation matters. A citation may refer to handheld use, texting while driving, or another form of manual interaction. We examine what the officer alleges the driver did rather than treating every citation as identical.

Potential Consequences of a Cell Phone Ticket

A violation of the hands-free law is a Class C infraction. Although an infraction isn’t classified as a crime, it requires a timely response. Under Indiana Code 34-28-5-4, a Class C infraction can carry a judgment of up to $500. The total amount associated with a citation may depend on the case and applicable court costs.

Driving-record consequences also deserve attention. Our traffic violation point-system information identifies texting and driving as a two-point violation, and traffic-violation points remain on a driving record for two years. That point value shouldn’t be assumed to apply to every citation involving a device because the cited violation and official driving-record assessment can differ.

Ignoring the ticket can create separate problems. Missing a required court date or paying late can lead to a failure-to-appear citation and license suspension. Review the response instructions and deadlines printed on the citation promptly.

Probationary License Rules for Drivers Under 21

Indiana applies a stricter rule to probationary license holders under age 21. These drivers generally may not use a telecommunications device while driving, even through hands-free technology. The statutory exception allows device use to make a 911 emergency call.

Because this restriction differs from the rule for other drivers, voice-operated use isn’t automatically a defense to an allegation involving a probationary license. The driver’s age, license status, alleged conduct, and reason for using the device all require separate review.

When Police May Access a Driver’s Phone

A traffic stop involving alleged phone use doesn’t automatically give an officer unrestricted access to the device. Indiana Code 9-21-8-59 limits an officer’s ability to confiscate or retain a phone solely to determine whether the driver complied with the statute.

The law also restricts extracting or downloading information without legal authorization. Access may be permitted when:

• The driver consents.
• There’s probable cause to believe the device was used in a crime.
• A valid search warrant exists.
• Another legal basis authorizes access.

We can evaluate how the device was handled and whether phone information became part of the allegation.

How We Handle a Traffic Citation

A citation identifies the alleged violation and the driver’s response requirements. During a free case review, we examine the ticket, discuss what happened during the stop, and identify potential consequences. We also consider the alleged device use and any available evidence.

Depending on the circumstances, our work can include:

• Entering a not-guilty plea
• Gathering evidence
• Appearing in court
• Negotiating a plea

These steps aren’t required in every case, and the appropriate approach depends on the citation and available legal options. A former felony prosecutor on our team contributes insight into how the State builds and evaluates cases, including criminal traffic matters.

We remain available around the clock for clients facing criminal charges and traffic matters. Our attorneys and staff provide prompt updates, explain developments clearly, and keep clients informed throughout the process.

Fort Wayne Traffic Court & Infraction Deferral

Traffic infractions in Fort Wayne are processed through the Allen Superior Court Misdemeanor and Traffic Division at the Charles “Bud” Meeks Justice Center. Court procedures and possible resolutions depend on the cited offense, the driver’s record, and the facts of the case.

The Allen County Prosecutor’s Office offers an Infraction Deferral Program for qualifying infractions. When a participant is accepted and complies with the program’s conditions, the case is dismissed and the violation isn’t reported to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Not every infraction qualifies, and drivers must enroll in person at the Infraction Deferral window.

Eligibility for a cell phone citation depends on the current requirements. We can review the citation and explain which response options warrant consideration.

Get Straightforward Guidance About Your Citation

We offer a free consultation for traffic ticket matters, including handheld device and texting-while-driving allegations. Our attorneys will explain what the citation means, discuss realistic possibilities, and outline what the court process may require.

Our contact us form is available at any time for review requests. We treat clients with respect and provide direct answers before they decide how to proceed.

Call (888) 912-7220 to discuss your Fort Wayne hands-free or cell phone ticket with Arnold Terrill Ridenour, P.C.