Waukesha Wisconsin Drunk Driving Lawyers
Arrest on charges of drunk driving in the state of Wisconsin can result in serious legal and personal consequences if found guilty. At the law office of D'Angelo & Jones, our OWI / DWI / DUI attorneys evaluate the best legal options available to you after an arrest for drunk driving. Depending on your prior arrest record and driving history, it may be possible to reduce the charges or sentence against you. Typically, an OWI conviction involves some jail time -- with the exception of first time offenses -- fines, and suspension or revocation of your license. Additionally, a conviction for drunk driving will almost certainly result in higher insurance premiums, the potential loss of your job, and a criminal record. Our OWI lawyers work with the court and prosecutors in helping clients avoid some of the more serious consequences associated with an OWI / DWI / DUI conviction.
Protect your driver's license, your job, and your future -- contact the law office of D'Angelo & Jones today. Free confidential consultations available.
Penalties Associated with Drunk Driving
The following kinds of penalties are associated with a drunk driving conviction in the state of Wisconsin:
- First time offense: $150 to $300 fine; no jail; 6 to 9 month license suspension; eligible for occupational license to drive to and from work or school.
- Second offense: $350 to $1,100 fine; 5 days to 6 months in jail; 12 to 18 month license revocation; eligible for occupational license after 60 days. Ignition interlock device required to drive.
- Third offense: $600 to $2,000 fine; 30 days to 1 year in jail; 2 to 3 year license revocation; eligible for occupational license after 90 days. Ignition interlock device required to drive.
- Fourth offense: $600 to $2,000 fine; 60 days to 1 year in jail; 2 to 3 year license revocation; eligible for occupational license after 90 days. Ignition interlock device required to drive.
When an OWI Arrest Needs to be Challenged
Not all those arrested for drunk driving are guilty, nor are all OWI arrests carried out according to proper procedure. A police officer must first have reasonable suspicion to pull someone over. Secondly, a field sobriety test must be conducted according to a set, recognized procedure. Next, if a breathalyzer is used, the device must be properly calibrated and maintained to ensure accurate results.
Using dashboard camera video when available and eyewitness testimony, our attorneys have the resources needed to challenge OWI arrests. We look at the maintenance record of a breathalyzer to see if it was properly calibrated, review an arresting officer's actions in the field, and submit blood or urine samples to independent lab for testing if available.
Be Prepared, Be Informed, Be Aware
The best way to avoid a worse case scenario involving a drunk driving charge is to understand what is involved, how the court views cases like yours, and what you can do to prevent angering the court or prosecutor. As your lawyers, we will explore alternatives to harsher sentences when community service, alcohol abuse counseling and driver's training is available. We will advise and defend you to ensure you avoid making a mistake that could complicate your life even further.
To schedule a free consultation to discuss your case, contact the law office of D'Angelo & Jones today.
