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Dealing with a DUI/OWI Charge in Wisconsin
Getting caught behind the wheel while intoxicated can have serious consequences in the state of Wisconsin. It can affect your ability to drive, result in jail time, and even have an impact on your employment opportunities if listed on your criminal record. Furthermore, the process of dealing with a DUI (driving under the influence) or OWI (operating a vehicle while intoxicated) can be frustrating, expensive, and highly arduous. If you are facing OWI or DUI charges in Wisconsin, know how to protect your rights and your future against the potential long-term consequences.
Wisconsin Legal Limits
In the state of Wisconsin, the maximum blood alcohol content (BAC) permissible by law is 0.08. Anything above that and you can be arrested and charged with a DUI or OWI (often used interchangeably). The only exceptions are for commercial drivers, who can face charges for a BAC for a limit of 0.04 or higher, and drivers under the age of 21, who can be arrested for any trace of alcohol in their system.
Wisconsin OWI/DUI Penalties
When arrested on a DUI/OWI, you become at risk for criminal charges. Based upon a variety of factors, including your number of previous convictions, penalties of a conviction on those charges could include jail time, fines, imprisonment, license suspension, and even the installment of an ignition interlock device (IID).
However, it is critical to understand that these guidelines are only the minimum standards and could apply differently depending on your history. If someone is injured or killed in an accident that you are considered at fault for, the penalties could be drastically increased. Furthermore, there may be other factors that could result in other, additional penalties.
Getting the Skilled Criminal Defense You Deserve
Regardless of the charges you are up against, you have the right to fight back. However, you should never attempt to mitigate, reduce, or dismiss charges alone. Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP offer the skilled and experienced representation you need. Backed by decades of experience, we aggressively defend your rights in a court of law and search for every ounce of leverage possible to minimize the damage that a DUI/OWI charge has on your life. Call our Milwaukee, Wisconsin DUI/OWI defense attorneys at 414-271-1440 today to learn more.
Sources:
http://wisconsindot.gov/Documents/safety/education/drunk-drv/owi-penchrt.pdf
http://wisconsindot.gov/Documents/safety/education/drunk-drv/08law.pdf
