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In Wisconsin, Operating While Intoxicated is a serious criminal charge with severe penalties. Even first-time offenders face possible jail time, fines, and other fees, as well as the suspension of driving privileges. While prosecutors may encourage you to simply plead guilty in the face of seemingly overwhelming evidence, defendants facing these charges should consult with an experienced OWI attorney before deciding on a course of action. Below are just a few penalties those with OWI convictions face.

3 Consequences of an OWI Conviction

1. Fines

The financial penalty for a first-time conviction ranges from $150 to $300, plus a $435 OWI surcharge. However, if the incident resulted in an accident in which someone was injured, the maximum fine increases to $2,000. Subsequent convictions result in increasingly higher fines, up to $50,000 for a tenth offense.

2. Confinement

owi attorneyFirst-time offenders are not subject to mandatory jail time, unless bodily injury was inflicted on another. Drivers who cause an accident resulting in injury face sentences of anywhere from 30 days to one year. Second-time offenders who have a previous conviction on their records will be jailed for a term of between five and 30 days.

3. License Revocation

Every driver convicted of an OWI will have their driver’s license revoked and must pay several hundred dollars to have it reinstated. First-time offenders will lose their driving privileges for a minimum of six months, or up to one year if minor children were in the vehicle. Subsequent convictions result in revocation periods of two to three years, plus required participation in an alcohol addiction treatment program.


The OWI attorneys at Scott & Heenan LLC in Grant County focus heavily on defending those accused of driving while intoxicated, and they have the experience to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. Visit their website for a full list of their comprehensive criminal defense services, follow their Facebook for more updates and advice, or call (608) 348-9506 to speak with a skilled OWI attorney today.

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