Milwaukee, Wisconsin DUI/OWI Attorneys

Representation for Those Charged with Drunk Driving in Waukesha, Green Bay, and Shorewood

In Wisconsin, the penalties for impaired driving are severe and require the experience and knowledge of a respected criminal defense lawyer. Navigating such charges alone is not only risky, but it could also mean the loss of your freedom, limited access to your family, and unemployment.

At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, we are highly respected criminal defense lawyers with extensive experience handling OWI matters. We are familiar with all criminal law matters regarding drunk driving. These offenses may be referred to as OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), Driving Under the Influence (DUI), or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). In Wisconsin, the law specifically refers to OWI, but these terms are generally interchangeable. If you are stopped by police under the suspicion of drunk driving in Milwaukee, it is important to contact a skilled OWI attorney as soon as possible.

Understanding BAC and OWI Laws in Milwaukee, WI

In Wisconsin, the legal limit for Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08%. The percentage indicates the level of concentration of alcohol in the bloodstream. If you are stopped on suspicion of drunk driving and the BAC test registers at 0.08% or higher, the state considers you to be intoxicated and unable to operate a vehicle safely. Even if you do not reach 0.08%, the additional following conditions may constitute intoxication:

• Driving under the influence of any intoxicant such as alcohol, controlled/illegal substances, prescription medication, or chemical substances.
• Driving with any detectable amount of an intoxicant that registers on a BAC test.
• Driving under the influence of any drug.

Even legal prescriptions can impair your driving. It is important to pay attention to warning labels as the drug may temporarily hinder your ability to operate a vehicle. Causing physical harm to yourself or others is not worth the risk. Bodily injury or death of a person due to actions of an impaired driver carries harsh consequences, and the emotional impact can be crippling to all involved.

Penalties for OWI / DUI / DWI Offenses

BAC testing is voluntary, but if you refuse you may be subject to additional penalties on top of the impaired driving offense. We know how to handle BAC testing and are knowledgeable about ways to ensure that the test methods are in compliance with applicable state laws.

First-time offenders can expect a fine up to $300, a $365 OWI surcharge, possible license suspension of up to nine months, and a drug and alcohol use assessment (counseling). Depending on the BAC level, an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) may also be installed in the vehicle. An IID will disable the vehicle if the driver fails to remain sober. Occupational licenses to drive back and forth to school, work and home are usually an option as well. First-time penalties are not as harsh as those subsequent offenders face.

For example, a second OWI may result in a $350 to $1,100 fine with a $365 OWI surcharge; Anywhere between 5 days and 6 months in jail; license revocation between 12 and 18 months; drug and alcohol counseling; installation of an IID; and a 45-day wait to pursue an occupational license. Subsequent offenses may result in fines up to $25,000 and a prison term up to 12.5 years. With so much at stake, it is essential to have the right OWI attorney on your side.

Call Experienced Milwaukee OWI Attorneys

If you have been charged with OWI in Wisconsin, contact one of our experienced criminal defense lawyers today by calling 414-271-1440. Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP proudly serves Milwaukee and advocate for clients facing impaired driving convictions in Waukesha, Green Bay, Racine, and Shorewood, Wisconsin. With more than 50 years of criminal law experience, we can help you.

Attorneys on our DUI/OWI Team:

• Jason Luczak
• Nicole Masnica