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When an OWI Can Result in Serious, Lifelong Consequences
Generally, jail terms are reserved for Wisconsin’s repeat OWI offenders. However, there are circumstances under which even a first-time offender can face serious penalties. It is important to understand these circumstances. Moreover, it is essential that you understand how to protect yourself, should you come up against any one of these serious situations.
Multiple OWI Convictions
If you receive a second offense OWI within a ten-year period, you can face up to six months in jail. Each repeat offense can increase your penalties and, by the time you reach your fourth offense, you could face consequences for a Class H felony, including up to six years of imprisonment, suspension of your license for up to three years, mandatory Interlock Ignition Device (IID) for up to three years and fines of up to $20,000. Additional convictions can increase your penalties even further.
Regardless of whether you are facing your first DUI conviction or your tenth, it is important to have an experienced lawyer by your side. Of course, if you do have a conviction on your record, that need is even stronger. However, these are not the only situations in which you may need an attorney for an OWI.
OWI Causing Death or Bodily Injury
When an OWI leads to an accident that causes bodily injury or death, the intoxicated driver could face serious penalties if he or she is convicted. In fact, even on a first offense, an OWI resulting in death or bodily harm could result up to six months in jail and a license suspension of up to eight months. It should also be noted that this is for each alleged victim in an accident. So, if you are driving intoxicated and end up in a crash and two others are killed, then you could face two counts of OWI causing death.
If you are arrested for an OWI after an accident, it is critical that you speak to an experienced attorney as soon as possible. This is true even if you are not certain of the condition of any of the other drivers or vehicle occupants, as things can turn in a matter of hours. Do not delay. Get the skilled assistance you deserve.
At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, we fight aggressively to protect your rights and future. Skilled and dedicated, our Milwaukee criminal defense lawyers will work to mitigate the charges in your case. In some situations, we may even be able to have the case completely dismissed. Whatever the situation, we will work toward the most favorable outcome possible. Get started today. Call (414) 271-1440 and schedule your consultation.
Sources:
http://www.newrichmond-news.com/news/crime-and-courts/4147210-homicide-vehicle-charge-filed-against-driver-2015-roberts-crash
http://wisconsindot.gov/documents/safety/education/drunk-drv/owi-penchrt.pdf
