When legal trouble interrupts your life, having the right legal team beside you can make all the difference. At Mullen, Schlough, & Associates, we provide experienced legal representation for individuals and families throughout Rice Lake and surrounding Wisconsin communities. As a trusted criminal defense lawyer in Rice Lake, WI, we understand how overwhelming criminal accusations can feel, especially when your reputation, freedom, finances, and future are on the line.
We take a practical and straightforward approach to criminal defense because we believe clients deserve honest answers and dependable guidance. Whether you are facing misdemeanor charges, felony accusations, or an OWI-related offense, we work closely with you to explain your options and help you move forward with confidence.
Skilled Defense for DUI and OWI Charges
One of our primary areas of focus involves defending clients charged with DUI and OWI offenses. While Wisconsin officially uses the term OWI, many people still search for DUI-related legal help, and we are prepared to assist with both. An arrest for operating while intoxicated can affect far more than your driving privileges. It may impact your employment, insurance rates, professional licensing, and personal reputation.
As a criminal defense attorney in Rice Lake, WI, we carefully examine every detail of an OWI or DUI case, including traffic stops, chemical testing procedures, field sobriety testing, and officer conduct. We build defense strategies designed around the facts of your case rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions. Our team also assists clients dealing with implied consent violations, underage OWI accusations, repeat offenses, and alcohol-related traffic violations.
Comprehensive Criminal Defense Services
In addition to DUI and OWI defense, we represent clients facing a wide range of criminal matters. Our experience includes drug offenses, probation and parole violations, assault-related allegations, theft crimes, and other misdemeanor or felony charges. We also provide guidance in related legal areas that may affect your future, including business law, bankruptcy matters, estate planning, and civil litigation.
Working with a criminal defense attorney means having an advocate who understands how criminal allegations can affect every aspect of your life. We focus on protecting your legal rights while helping you make informed decisions throughout the legal process.
Why Clients Choose Mullen, Schlough & Associates
Clients throughout Wisconsin turn to our firm because we combine local commitment with extensive legal knowledge. We are known for providing direct advice without unnecessary confusion or pressure. If there is a practical solution available, we will discuss it honestly and help you understand your options.
Another reason many clients contact us is our flexible payment plan approach. We recognize that many individuals facing criminal charges are already dealing with financial uncertainty. Our firm encourages payment plans because quality legal representation should remain accessible to people who need experienced defense.
Speak With a Criminal Defense Attorney Today
If you are searching for a criminal defense lawyer in Rice Lake, WI, do not wait to get legal guidance. The earlier you involve an experienced attorney, the more opportunities there may be to protect your rights and build a strong defense strategy.
At Mullen, Schlough, & Associates, we are committed to helping clients face difficult legal situations with clarity and confidence. Contact our office today to speak with a criminal defense attorney and learn how we can help with your DUI, OWI, or other criminal defense matter.
The County Courthouse
Typically this is where most, if not all county business is done or administered. In addition, this is where the county courtrooms, district attorneys offices and other offices are located. All criminal and civil cases, at the fact-finding level, are heard and decided:
Barron County Court System: https://www.barroncountywi.gov/clerk-of-circuit-court
The County Sheriff’s Department
Every county has a law enforcement agency that enforces the law within its boundaries. The county sheriffs departments enforce the law and county district attorneys prosecute those cases referred to them by sheriff’s deputies.
Barron County Sheriff’s Department: https://www.barroncountywi.gov/sheriff
The City Police Department
Each city or town has their own police department or law enforcement agency. Police officers enforce city laws and most times are the same laws that are enforce in the county. When a city police officer arrests someone regarding a county offense, the case gets referred to the county district attorney’s office. When a county sheriff’s deputy arrests a person for a city ordinance violation, the case gets referred to the city prosecuting attorney.
Rice Lake City Police: https://www.ci.rice-lake.wi.us/index.asp?SEC=%7BAB1C463E-F160-4CC6-BED8-FC2E38486504%7D
Department of Motor Vehicles
A criminal or OWI/DUI conviction will have an important impact on your life and in more ways than you might originally think. After an arrest your driver’s license may be suspended by the DMV well before you see the inside of a courtroom. Call us today so we can help you keep your license or get a new temporary license.
Wisconsin Dept of Motor Vehicles: https://wisconsindot.gov/pages/online-srvcs/external/dmv.aspx
Rice Lake Dept of Motor Vehicles: https://trust.dot.state.wi.us/cscfinder/cityCountySearch.do?county=Barron
Alcohol & Other Drugs Counseling
Many times the Department of Motor Vernicles and/or State & City prosecutors along with the judges requires some sort of successful completion of a course to complete the matter. Listed below are some businesses that provide Alcohol & Other Drug counseling services.
Your First Step: https://yourfirststep.org/treatment-centers/rice-lake-wi/
Rice Lake Inpatient Treatment Center: https://recovery.org/drug-alcohol-rehab/rice-lake-wi/
Probation & Parole
In many sentences of criminal cases, there is a period of probation in misdemeanor cases or extended supervision (the modern term for parole) in felony cases after any time ordered for jail or prison incarceration. This is ordered by judges to address the underlying cause behind the criminal act. The theory is, once the accused can deal with the underlying issue in a more responsible manner, the defendant, victim and society will be better off.
Barron County Probation & Parole: https://www.countyoffice.org/barron-county-probation-department-rice-lake-wi-e2e/
Common Criminal Defense Questions
What should I do immediately after an OWI arrest in Wisconsin?
After an OWI arrest, it is important to remain calm and avoid making detailed statements to law enforcement without legal representation. You should keep copies of any paperwork you receive, including citations, bond conditions, and notice of license suspension information. Speaking with an attorney quickly can help you understand important deadlines and determine what legal steps should be taken next.
Can a DUI or OWI conviction affect my job opportunities?
Yes, a conviction may impact both current and future employment opportunities depending on your profession and the nature of the offense. Some employers review criminal records during hiring, while certain professional licenses may require reporting criminal convictions. An attorney can help explain possible long-term consequences and discuss legal strategies that may reduce the impact on your future.
Do you offer payment plans for criminal defense cases?
Yes, we understand that legal expenses can create additional stress for many individuals and families. Our firm encourages payment plans because we believe experienced legal representation should remain accessible. During your consultation, we can discuss available payment options and help you better understand the expected costs associated with your case.
What types of criminal cases do you handle besides OWI and DUI matters?
In addition to OWI and DUI defense, we assist clients facing charges involving drug crimes, theft offenses, assault allegations, probation violations, and other criminal matters. Our firm also handles related legal concerns that may intersect with criminal cases, including civil disputes and business-related legal issues. We take a personalized approach to every case because each client’s situation is unique.
How long does a criminal case usually take in Wisconsin?
The timeline for a criminal case depends on several factors, including the seriousness of the charges, court scheduling, and whether the matter resolves through negotiation or trial. Some cases may conclude within a few months, while more complex matters can take significantly longer. Working with an attorney early in the process can help you stay informed and prepared throughout each stage of your case.