Charles "Chuck" Rathburn

Partner

Charles "Chuck" Rathburn is a distinguished attorney based in Indianapolis, Indiana, who has established himself as one of the foremost experts in DUI/OWI defense in the United States.

He is among the few attorneys nationwide who has been qualified by both trial and appellate courts as an expert on breath testing, Standardized Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs), and alcohol's effects on the human body.

With over 25 years of experience in criminal defense, Rathburn has built his practice at the Rathburn Law Office P.C., focusing exclusively on DUI/OWI cases throughout Indiana. His Indianapolis-based firm allows him to serve clients across the entire state, with representation extending to various counties including Hamilton, Johnson, and others.

Rathburn's journey into DUI defense began in his mid-20s after a personal experience requiring legal representation, which inspired his calling to help others facing similar challenges. What sets him apart is his extraordinary technical expertise—he personally purchased the same breath testing devices used by Indiana law enforcement, including both roadside testing equipment and the evidential breath testing devices used in court. His relationship with breath testing device manufacturers led him to become an educator for other attorneys on the operation of these machines. This specialized knowledge has resulted in his recognition as an expert on breath testing in multiple states, including Alaska, California, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Colleagues praise Rathburn's exceptional command of the DataMaster breath testing instrument and his ability to teach complex technical concepts in an accessible format. One fellow attorney noted that the in-depth training received from Rathburn enabled them to "analyze DUI breath cases from the inside out" and understand the DataMaster "better than the DA's and better than many of the State's experts." Rathburn is an active member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association, and he's described by peers as "the epitome of a zealous advocate and the fighter you need" when facing DUI charges. His approach combines expert technical knowledge with passionate advocacy, with fellow attorneys noting that he's the professional they turn to when they "need help with a complicated matter."

Rathburn operates on a flat fee basis, which he believes benefits clients by providing cost certainty and eliminating surprise bills. His practice philosophy centers on providing personalized legal support for each client, with strategies tailored to individual circumstances.

Beyond his legal practice, Rathburn conducts training sessions for attorneys, judges, and even his own staff on breath alcohol testing concepts and the problems associated with such testing. He is also a proud sponsor of the Indiana Fever women's basketball team.