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In the state of Wisconsin, there is no difference between an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) and a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). Both charges come with the potential for severe penalties and can possibly impact your driving privileges for months or even years. The OWI attorneys at Scott & Heenan, LLC, have been serving the Platteville, Wisconsin, area since 1985; below, they share three important things to know about getting an OWI in America's Dairyland.

3 Things to Know About Getting an OWI in Wisconsin

1. You Don't Need to Be Driving a Car to Get an OWI

There is a common misconception that one must be intoxicated behind the wheel of a car to be charged with an OWI. This is simply not true. Any vehicle you operate while under the influence can get you arrested for an OWI; this includes boats, golf carts, all-terrain vehicles, and even bicycles.

2. An OWI Usually Comes With an Additional Citation

IOWI attorneyn most OWI cases, a Wisconsin driver will also be cited for an infraction knows as a PAC. This stands for Prohibited Alcohol Content and indicates that your blood alcohol content (BAC) was over the legal limit. For drivers over 21, that limit is .08%; for drivers under 21, it is .02%. While it may seem that a PAC should be a natural component of an OWI charge, Wisconsin recognizes it as a separate violation.

3. An OWI Will Stay on Your Record

Be prepared for your OWI charge to stay on your record for at least 10 years. It could affect your ability to secure a job, obtain credit, and find housing. An OWI attorney will help you explore your legal options and work to get the charges against you reduced or eliminated, which can make all the difference for your future prospects.

Contact Scott & Heenan, LLC, to schedule a consultation with an OWI attorney; they also offer representation in family law, criminal law, and estate planning matters. Call (608) 348-9506 or visit their Facebook or Google+ page to learn more about any of the services they provide. Don't let an OWI jeopardize your record or your future.

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