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When Can Multiple OWI Convictions Lead to Felony Charges?
Drunk driving is known to be dangerous. The effects of alcohol or drugs on a person’s body and mind can make it difficult or impossible to drive safely. Because of the risks of accidents that can result in serious injuries to multiple people, people who are caught driving while intoxicated face criminal charges.
Operating while intoxicated (OWI) is a serious offense in Wisconsin, particularly for repeat offenders. A person who has been arrested for drunk driving multiple times could face severe penalties, including felony charges. An experienced attorney can provide legal help for people facing felony OWI charges while working to ensure that a person accused of drunk driving will be able to resolve their case favorably.
When Does OWI Become a Felony in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, OWI charges escalate in severity with each subsequent conviction. While first, second, and third OWI offenses are generally treated as misdemeanors, a fourth OWI and any additional drunk driving arrests will result in felony charges. The specific penalties for multiple OWI convictions include:
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A fourth OWI conviction is classified as a Class H felony. The penalties of a conviction may include fines up to $10,000, imprisonment for between 60 days and six years, driver’s license revocation for two to three years and the requirement to use an ignition interlock device (IID) or participate in a 24/7 sobriety program for one to three years.
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Fifth or sixth OWI offenses are classified as Class G felonies and carry harsher consequences, including up to $25,000 and imprisonment for one to 10 years. As with other felony OWI offenses, a person may face a driver’s license revocation for two to three years and be required to use an IID or maintain 24/7 sobriety for one to three years.
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Seventh, eighth, or ninth OWI offenses will be charged as Class F felonies. The penalties that may apply include up to $25,000 in fines and a prison sentence ranging from three to 12 and a half years. Once again, two to three years of driver’s license revocation may apply, and a person will also face a one to three year period of IID use or 24/7 sobriety.
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A person charged with OWI for the tenth or subsequent time will face a Class E felony. They may face up to $50,000 in fines and imprisonment for four to 15 years. Their driver’s license will be revoked for two to three years, and they must use an IID or participate in a 24/7 sobriety program for one to three years.
Additional Penalties and Consequences
Beyond the legal penalties detailed above, multiple OWI convictions can have long-lasting effects on a person's life. These may include:
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Increased insurance premiums: Convictions lead to significantly higher car insurance rates.
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Employment challenges: A felony record can limit a person’s job opportunities and make them ineligible for professional licenses.
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Social stigma: Repeat offenses can affect personal relationships, and the negative reputation that comes with OWI convictions can affect a person’s community standing.
Contact Our Milwaukee, WI Multiple OWI Defense Attorneys
A strong defense from an experienced attorney is important for anyone who has been arrested for drunk driving. For those who may face felony charges due to multiple OWI convictions, legal representation becomes even more crucial. At Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP, our Milwaukee OWI defense lawyers can provide the legal help needed to address these charges correctly. We work to resolve cases in ways that minimize the effects on our clients’ lives. Contact our office at 414-271-1440 to set up a confidential consultation and learn how we can help build a strong defense against OWI charges.
