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While you may not go out intending to drive under the influence, mistakes do happen. Before you consult a DUI attorney, you may find it helpful to review the DUI penalties. Since laws vary from state to state, the penalties listed here are specific to Wisconsin.

Escalating Penalties for Multiple DUI Offenses

1. First Offense

While a first offense is minor in comparison to the penalties for multiple OWI (operating while intoxicated) offenses, you may still want to consult a DUI attorney. Jail time isn’t a concern for a first offense, but the fine can range from $150 to $300. Your driver’s license may be revoked for six to nine months as well. An ignition interlock device (IID) isn’t mandated in most cases, but a BAC that’s .15 or higher will require adding it to the vehicle.

2. Second Offense

Although a second OWI offense is still a misdemeanor, it does carry a term of imprisonment of five days or up to six months. This may make it more advantageous for the defendant to consult a DUI attorney. Additionally, the minimum fine is set at $350, but it may be as high as $1,100. The driver’s license will be suspended for 12 to 18 months, and an IID may be used for up to 18 months. A conviction may be considered a second offense if it occurred within 10 years of the first conviction.

3. Third Offense 

DUI AttorneyStill a misdemeanor, a third OWI conviction within the same 10-year period will result in a jail term of at least 45 days up to a full year. The fine applied will be between $600 and $2,000. The offender’s license will be revoked for two to three years, and they may have an IID attached to their vehicle for three additional years.

4. Additional Offenses

Once an individual has had more than four OWI convictions, future charges will be considered felonies and will require the expertise of a criminal defense lawyer. Fines can be as high as $25,000, and prison terms of up to 12.5 years may be applied. License revocations and IID use are still limited to three years in these cases.

Dealing With Minors

Adults can face an OWI charge with a BAC of .08% or higher, but a teen driver with a BAC of .02% or higher can be cited for an OWI. Additionally, a teen driver with a BAC under .02% can still be charged if the individual seems intoxicated. Their performance on the field sobriety test will determine whether they will require an attorney to defend against OWI charges.

 

When you need a DUI attorney, contact O'Neill Law Firm, LLC in La Crosse, WI. They have been practicing DUI and criminal defense law for more than 20 years, so they have the expertise to help you get the best possible outcome in your case. You can read previous client testimonials on their website. To schedule an initial consultation, call (608) 519-3551.

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