Facing OWI, DUI or DWI in Wisconsin
Facing charges related to OWI, DUI, or DWI in Wisconsin, particularly in local counties like Barron, Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, or Rice Lake, can be a daunting experience. Whether it’s your first offense or you’re dealing with a more complex situation involving drugs, underage drinking, or high blood alcohol concentrations (BAC), the legal process can feel overwhelming. That’s where experienced criminal defense lawyers come in.
In Wisconsin, OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) encompasses various offenses related to drunk or drug-impaired driving. Sometimes known as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) or DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), these charges can have serious consequences. From receiving citations to facing license suspensions or revocations, the aftermath of an OWI arrest can disrupt your life significantly.
When you’re stopped by law enforcement and handed those intimidating “A,” “B,” or “AM” tickets, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options. Refusing a chemical test, such as a breathalyzer or blood test, can lead to additional penalties, including immediate license suspension and the need for legal representation such as the experienced DUI Criminal Defense Attorneys, Mullen, Schlough & Associates S.C.
In addition to facing criminal charges, there are administrative actions to contend with, such as the Notice of Intent to Suspend or Revocation. These notices can impact your ability to drive legally, affecting your job, family responsibilities, and overall livelihood.
A skilled DUI attorney or OWI lawyer can guide you through each step of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and advocating for the best possible outcome. Whether you’re in Eau Claire County, Dunn County, or elsewhere in Wisconsin, having local representation familiar with the nuances of the courts can be invaluable.
For those facing charges of drug driving, whether it involves marijuana, prescription medications, or over-the-counter drugs, the stakes are equally high. The legal consequences for drug-related OWI offenses can be severe, potentially resulting in harsh penalties and a tarnished record.
If you’re a juvenile facing DUI or OWI charges, the situation can be particularly distressing. It’s essential to have a compassionate yet assertive legal advocate who understands the complexities of underage drunk driving cases and will work tirelessly to protect your future.
Don’t underestimate the importance of hiring a reputable criminal defense lawyer when facing OWI, DUI, or DWI charges in Wisconsin. From challenging evidence to negotiating plea bargains or representing you in court, their expertise can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
Remember, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. Contact a qualified DUI Defense Attorney or OWI Lawyer today to discuss your case and start building a strategic defense tailored to your specific circumstances. Your future may depend on it.
Navigating the Maze: Wisconsin’s Strict Stance on DUI Offenses and Second Offense Implications
Wisconsin has gained a reputation for taking a stern stance on DUI offenses, and individuals facing a second offense find themselves navigating a complex legal landscape. In this blog, we’ll explore the implications of Wisconsin’s strict DUI laws, focusing on key areas such as penalties, legal processes, and the importance of seeking experienced DUI defense.
Understanding Wisconsin’s DUI Laws:
Wisconsin, like many states, has stringent laws in place to combat drunk and drug driving. Driving Under the Influence (DUI) is a serious offense that can have severe consequences, especially for individuals facing a second offense. Whether you’re in Eau Claire, Barron County, Chippewa Falls, or Rice Lake, the legal ramifications remain significant.
Penalties for Second Offense DUI in Wisconsin:
A second OWI offense in Wisconsin carries harsh penalties that can impact various aspects of an individual’s life. These penalties may include hefty fines, mandatory alcohol or drug treatment programs, license suspension, and even jail time. The severity of the penalties underscores the importance of seeking legal representation to navigate the legal system effectively.
The Role of Experienced DUI Defense Lawyers:
Facing a second DUI offense requires the expertise of seasoned OWI criminal defense attorneys who understand the intricacies of Wisconsin’s legal system. A skilled DUI defense attorney can assess the circumstances surrounding the arrest, challenge evidence, and work to minimize the impact on the client’s life.
In Eau Claire, Chippewa County, Menomonie Dunn County, or any other part of Wisconsin, individuals must be aware of their rights and legal options. A proactive approach, with the guidance of an experienced DUI criminal defense lawyer, can make a substantial difference in the outcome of the case.
Hiring an OWI defense lawyer or DUI attorney is paramount when facing charges in Wisconsin, particularly for a second offense. These legal professionals bring a wealth of expertise that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Firstly, an experienced DUI defense lawyer understands the intricacies of Wisconsin’s DUI laws, enabling them to navigate the legal landscape with precision. They can assess the circumstances surrounding your arrest, scrutinize evidence, and identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Moreover, a skilled OWI defense attorney can negotiate with the prosecution to secure favorable plea deals, potentially reducing penalties or exploring alternative sentencing options. Their familiarity with local courts, judges, and procedures provides a strategic advantage, enhancing the likelihood of achieving a positive outcome.
Additionally, these attorneys can guide you through the complex legal processes, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to protect your rights. Overall, having a dedicated OWI defense lawyer or DUI attorney by your side is crucial for building a robust defense and mitigating the impact of second offense charges.
Unique Challenges for Second Offense DUI:
A second OWI offense brings its own set of challenges, including heightened penalties and the potential for an extended license suspension. Individuals facing a second offense in Wisconsin must be prepared for a more rigorous legal process and increased scrutiny from law enforcement and the court.
Special Considerations: Juvenile DUI and Underage Drunk Driving:
In Wisconsin, underage drinking and driving, also known as Juvenile DUI or Juvenile OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), are treated with particular severity. The consequences for young individuals facing OWI charges can be long-lasting, affecting their education, employment opportunities, and personal reputation. Working with an expert Juvenile DUI Defense Attorney is crucial.
Drug Driving and Marijuana Use:
With the increasing prevalence of marijuana use, cases involving drug driving have become more common. Wisconsin law does not distinguish between alcohol and drug-related offenses, treating both with equal seriousness. Individuals charged with DUI involving marijuana or other drugs need specialized legal representation to navigate the complexities of drug-related OWI cases.
The Impact of OTC Medication on OWI Charges:
It’s crucial to note that not only illegal substances like marijuana can lead to DUI charges. The use of Over-The-Counter (OTC) medications can also impair one’s ability to drive, resulting in DUI charges. Individuals need to be aware of the potential consequences of combining medication with driving and should seek legal advice if facing OWI charges related to OTC medications.
Conclusion:
Navigating Wisconsin’s strict stance on DUI offenses, especially second offenses, requires a proactive and informed approach. Whether you’re in Chippewa Falls, Rice Lake, or any other part of Wisconsin, understanding the implications of DUI charges is vital. Seeking the assistance of experienced OWI defense attorneys is not just a choice but a necessity when facing the complex legal system.
Schedule a free consultation with Mullen Schlough & Associates who serve Chippewa Valley Serving Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Menomonie, Barron and the surrounding areas Including All of Western Wisconsin. They encourage payment plans. Contact them to learn more about how they can help.
Remember, the consequences of a second DUI offense in Wisconsin can be life-altering. With the right legal representation, individuals can better navigate the legal maze and work towards minimizing the impact on their lives.
A DUI Criminal Defense Attorney Defends Your Rights
According to the FBI, over 1.4 million drivers have been arrested for a DUI (driving under the influence), DWI (driving while intoxicated) or an OWI (operating while intoxicated with drugs, alcohol or medication). This criminal offense is determined when the driver’s blood alcohol content is above the lawful level range of 0.05% and 0.08%. There is even an aggravated classification of the offense in specific jurisdictions if the level is 0.12%. Regardless of the jurisdiction, an individual can be sentenced and should secure a DUI/OWI defense attorney as soon as the driver is accused of drunk driving.
A DUI/ OWI defense lawyer is a criminal defense attorney that specializes in DUI/ OWI cases as well as representing drivers arrested and charged with a DUI or OWI. For over 20 years, Mullen, Schlough & Associates S.C., located in Chippewa Falls has handled such cases in Chippewa County, Eau Claire County, Dunn County and Barron County specializing in Wisconsin OWI laws.
An essential responsibility of a OWI defense lawyer is to clearly explain the DUI charges to a client, recommend the best plan to follow, and then represent the driver in court. The DWI law firm also gathers and organizes details and handles the administrative procedures involved to ensure nothing falls through the cracks and to provide the client with ease.
The court process for a DUI offense can be very long for this type of conviction. If you are accused of driving under the influence (DUI) and operating while intoxicated (OWI) crimes, you may endure a many hearings beginning with the Department of Motor Vehicles and concluding with a final hearing at the County or State Court.
With an experienced DUI / OWI defense lawyer will aim, on your behalf, you may not have to plead guilty. The DWI attorney may get a large number of these charges dropped or reduced early in the process. For example, the DWI attorney may file a motion to overthrow his or her client’s statements if arrested. Or the DUI / OWI defense lawyer may suggest a plea bargain or sentence bargain. Your criminal law attorney may even schedule an evidentiary hearing in order to reveal the evidence the persecution holds against his/her client.
When conducting the cross-examination, it is crucial to gather all the proof available at the time of arrest. Then have the option to compare with the witness’ testimony. While the state witness is testifying on direct assessment by the prosecutor, the role of a DUI/ OWI defense lawyer is to focus on the questions being posed so as to counter the prosecution’s argument.
When arguing DUI/ OWI cases and criminal offense, the state and prosecution can always prove a defendant guilty. A DUI/ OWI defense lawyer has a responsibility to help you defend your rights and status against any proof the prosecution may anticipate introducing. DUI/ OWI defense attorneys will assist you with setting up a defense argument you can present in court.
DUI / OWI defense lawyers should have a great understanding of their particular state’s drunk driving laws. Our OWI criminal defense attorneys have expertise in Wisconsin DUI laws and help our clients understand their rights and options while assisting their negotiations with prosecution. Hiring a defense law firm such as Mullen, Schlough & Associates S.C. means you will have highly organized OWI specialists with competent critical thinking skills on your side to best assess your best options.
What if your OWI or DUI charge could be dismissed?
Many drivers are under the false impression that there is no way to fight an OWI or DUI charge. That belief is actually off-base.
We’re in the final stretch of 2020 and while some are drinking to celebrate, others may be drinking to forget. Just don’t let the phrase “could 2020 get any worse?” be in response to getting pulled over and accused of an OWI or DUI charge from the police.
As you may know, law enforcement officials in every state, including Wisconsin, have increased their determination to keep intoxicated drivers off the road. One of the most general and dangerous misconceptions is that an individual needs to be drunk to be arrested for this offense.
The penalties you face if convicted of drunk driving can be a fine, driver’s license suspension or revocation, alcohol counseling, jail time, and installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). These penalties can increase to a large extent if certain aggravating factors are present.
Unfortunately, many drivers in Chippewa Falls, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Eau Claire County, Menomonie, Dunn County, Rice Lake and Barron County, WI have been arrested for drunk driving after simply having a couple of drinks. The OWI / DUI defense lawyers of Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. have successfully litigated legal challenges and trials in OWI / DUI cases resulting in dismissals and acquittals. They have even helped drivers accused of driving under the influence avoid jail, preserve driving privileges and protect a good record.
So many drivers pulled over in Wisconsin believe that there is no way to fight an OWI / DUI charge. It’s not true. The best OWI defense attorneys have succeeded in having OWI charges thrown out based on illegal traffic stops as well as inconclusive field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests resulting in over 0.08 and blood tests.
If you were arrested on suspicion of operating a vehicle while intoxicated or have been arrested for drunk driving, your first step should be contacting an experienced criminal defense firm to appropriately defend your case and offer you valuable legal advice. OWI/DUI defense lawyers will explore all possible defenses against your OWI/DUI charges. They will deal with the criminal case as well as the administrative issues regarding your driver’s license. With the assistance of an accomplished legal team, your odds of succeeding are significantly increased.
But without the help of a skilled criminal defense firm, one can experience lasting negative outcomes including a criminal conviction, prison, and the loss of driving rights for a long period of time.
DUI or OWI for Drugged Driving in Wisconsin
A DUI or OWI often bring drunk driving to mind. But an intoxication arrest also applies to anyone who is under the influence of drugs, including prescription or even over-the-counter medications. If you are arrested for driving under the influence, and charged with drug intoxication or DUI, connecting with a criminal defense attorney should be your first step.
What Penalties Might You Face?
If you are convicted of drug intoxication In Chippewa Falls, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Eau Claire County, Menomonie, Dunn County, Rice Lake and Barron County, WI, you’ll be required to attend a rehabilitation facility and an impaired driver education program — both costing you money and time away from your job or family.
In cases of driving while under the influence of drugs, the Wisconsin judge will suspend your driver’s license for a time ranging from six months to multiple years, depending on the conditions of your case. The best action is, of course, to never get behind the wheel if you’ve been taking drugs of any kind (from over-the-counter medication that comes with a warning such as cough medicine to recreational drugs like marijuana).
But if you do, it is in your best interest to contact the OWI / DUI criminal defense lawyers at Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. who are experienced in drug and driving-related offenses. They have your best interests in mind as they represent you in drug intoxication cases and offer payment plans. In addition, they will provide the kind of advice that can help you put these serious charges behind you as quickly as possible.
For example, if you were able to speak plainly and act normally, your lawyer can use this to your advantage in defending your drug intoxication case when the prosecution triest to demonstrate that you were extremely intoxicated to the point of being unable to care for your own safety or a danger to others.
As an OWI / DUI criminal defense law firm with expertise in drug intoxication defense legal services, Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. is prepared, and well qualified to represent you in even the most difficult of legal challenges you may be facing. For reference, here is a list of Drug Possession Defenses. And as an aside, if you are thinking your drug or alcohol consumption might be “a little out of control”, click the following link: https://www.help.org/prescription-drug-addiction-and-abuse.
The prosecution must demonstrate that a seized substance is indeed the illegal drug it claims it is by sending the proof to a crime lab for examination. The crime lab analyst at that point must bear witness at trial in order for the prosecution to put forth its case.
The Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution ensures the privilege to fair treatment of law, including legal search and seizure methods before an arrest. Search and seizure issues are a regular territory for drug possession defenses.
Illegal medications found on display might be seized and utilized as proof. Be that as it may, drugs found in a hidden place can’t be entered into evidence. In the event that the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights were violated, at that point the drugs can’t be utilized at trial and the charges normally are dropped.
States where medical marijuana has been legalized typically require a doctor’s signed recommendation. But some of those states also accommodate an affirmative defense by individuals arrested on marijuana possession charges who can show clear and credible evidence of medical necessity.
Here, prosecutors who lose or otherwise lack the actual drugs risk having their case dismissed. Seized drugs usually get transferred numerous times before being left in the evidence locker, so it should never be assumed that the proof still exists during trial.
While law enforcement officials are allowed to set up smart operations, entrapment occurs when police officers or sources initiate a suspect to commit a crime he or she otherwise may not have committed. If a source pressures a suspect into passing drugs to a third party, for instance, then this may be viewed as entrapment. Entrapment takes place where the state provides the drugs being referred to.
This is when you claim the drugs do not belong to you. A defense lawyer will pressure prosecutors to prove that the illegal substance found in the car belonged to someone else.
Juvenile DUI in Wisconsin: Sobering Facts
The holiday break often sees an uptick in OWI / DUI criminal arrests in Wisconsin and it’s not uncommon that some of those drivers are under the legal drinking age. Unfortunately what many do not realize is that OWI operating under the influence or DUI driving under the influence punishments are more severe when the driver is under 21.
With so much at stake, it’s crucial that you contact a seasoned juvenile OWI lawyer if you or a younger family member is facing juvenile OWI charges in Chippewa Falls, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Eau Claire County, Menomonie, Dunn County, Rice Lake and Barron County, WI
THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS A WRIST SLAP FOR A FIRST OFFENSE
A first time juvenile OWI offense for driving under the influence of alcohol is often met with a fine of a few hundred dollars plus a suspended driver’s license for up to 9 months. This penalty is the same as for an adult, however, more serious penalties will arise if additional convictions occur.
If another OWI conviction happens within 10 years of the first conviction, fines start at $300 and can go up to $1000, including a year in prison, and a suspended driver’s license for at least one year or more. While this can have an immediate financial and social impact, that’s just the beginning.
Newer drivers are already an at-risk group with regards to safe driving in general. Even with just one drink and the penalties for juvenile drunk driving are stricter than those for adults. The DWI law in Wisconsin for minors incorporates a zero tolerance policy for juvenile drunk drivers.
That means that any BAC reading above 0.00% is counted as a juvenile OWI crime and does not just stop at alcohol consumption. Under 21 drivers can be charged for the equivalent OWI crimes if they’re caught driving with any unlawful, impairing substance such as weed or prescription drugs in their body system. As a reference point, individuals who are 21 and over with a .08 BAC or below do not receive an OWI charge consequently.
Car insurance rates can skyrocket for juveniles convicted of OWI in Wisconsin – especially for individuals with more than one offense. A juvenile DUI conviction can lead to huge, long-term financial harm such as additional premium costs every month or, even worse, no insurance since the company may drop policies without warning or a chance to renew.
A DEFENSE LAWYER WHO SPECIALIZES IN JUVENILE OWI IS VITAL
Drunk driving charges or OWI/DUI (operating while intoxicated or driving under the influence) charges are very complex which is why it’s so vital that you hire a skilled defense lawyer who specializes in juvenile OWI and DUI cases.
For example, there are many detailed processes involved in bodily specimen tests. Often a DUI defense attorney will find mistakes or incorrect readings when it comes to proof of alcohol, marijuana or even prescription drugs that come with warnings about operating heavy machinery while taking.
A seasoned juvenile criminal defense attorney with expertise in this area can scrutinize the process of how the blood was examined and whether the equipment used to evaluate the results was functioning correctly.
There can also be many other defenses such as constitutional violations and defenses relating to a juvenile OWI charge, which an unpracticed individual will not be able to understand. All the more reason that these complicated DWI cases require someone who has the skill and knowledge in defending them.
If you or someone you know has been charged with juvenile OWI in Wisconsin, it’s crucial to hire the best juvenile OWI attorney in Wisconsin to defend your case. Contact the attorneys at Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. today for a free consultation.
‘Tis the Season for DUI Charges
DWI driving while intoxicated with (holiday) spirits
Helpful Expert Advice – OWI Offense and Defense Laws in Wisconsin
Why your first step should be to hire a DWI Defense Attorney
OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are all serious offenses but in Wisconsin there are many factors that will impact your conviction. For 20 years, Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. — located in Chippewa Falls, WI — has handled OWI cases throughout Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire County, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Dunn County, Chippewa County, Menomonie, Claire County, Rice Lake and Barron County, Wisconsin
While an OWI charge can be, and frequently is, a strain on your life, try to resist the urge to panic. Keep in mind that not all DWI charges lead to convictions. DUI charges are different. It is essential that you contact a Wisconsin OWI defense lawyer promptly so as to discuss your case and start the process.
Some common OWI questions and answers you may find helpful are:
Did the police officer have a rightful reason to make a traffic stop?
If not, then your Drunk Driving Lawyer will be able to dispute the stop by getting evidence, such as the blood or breath test and the field sobriety tests, suppressed.
How did the police manage the field sobriety test?
The Wisconsin PD trains their officers to conduct three typical field sobriety tests. If there is a flaw in the way your One Leg Stand, Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, or the Walk and Turn was handled, your DWI defense lawyer can use that to help lighten your conviction.
Did the police officer have probable cause to inspire your traffic stop?
Your Drunk Driving Defense Attorney can help investigate what caused the traffic stop and if it warranted a probable cause to administer the PBT which lead to making your arrest. If the officer lacked evidence, this can lead to your evidence getting suppressed.
Was the driver’s BAC (Blood Alcohol Curve) .08 or higher?
If so, this doesn’t mean the end of disputes. Your DWI attorney can argue that the machines or laboratories malfunctioned and made mistakes. A cautious review of the records can lead to convincing arguments for a jury.
What is the Blood Alcohol Curve Defense?
Blood Alcohol Curve defense is based on the absorption rate of alcohol and the time of the very last drink. Similar to disputing the correctness of the chemical test defense, your OWI attorney can argue that at the time of operation your blood alcohol level was lower than a .08.
Many times the police officer in this situation does not observe the driver operating the car in question. They may, however, find the individual sleeping or passed out on the side of the road. In these situations, the blood or breath test may not bear the same weight. Yet again, a seasoned OWI defense lawyer can come to your rescue to gather and present all of these details to help your case.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT LICENSE SUSPENSION in the state of Wisconsin:
In first offense cases, the Wisconsin DUI criminal lawyers at Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. will be able to appear on your behalf. These Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer will be able to assist you and ensure each step of the process is completed
When you’re accused of alcohol or drug intoxication you face a suspension as well as a revocation of your driver’s license. For an OWI offense in Wisconsin, your license will be disavowed upon conviction. Be that as it may, your license might be suspended authoritatively before a conviction for 6 months.
A WI driver’s license will be suspended 30 days in the wake of accepting a Notice of Intent to Suspend on the off chance that you don’t ask for an administrative review hearing or if you lose the administrative hearing. For a first offense OWI in Wisconsin, your license will be repudiated for at least 6 months. Your license can be repudiated for as long as three years for a third offense or more.
Whether your case is OWI or an OWI causing injury or vehicular manslaughter, a Drunk Driving Attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you in the right direction. We are ready and able to provide assistance for your situation. Contact Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C.
Helpful Advice About Wisconsin’s DUI and OWI Laws
A DUI / OWI charge is a huge strain on your life. But don’t panic, because not all OWI charges lead to convictions especially if you bet on an DUI / OWI criminal defense attorney.
There are several factors that can impact your DUI (Driving Under the Influence), DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) conviction in the state of Wisconsin . It is crucial that you contact a Wisconsin DUI defense attorney immediately to discuss your case and begin the process. For 20 years, Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. — located in Chippewa Falls, WI — has handled DUI cases throughout Chippewa County, Eau Claire County, Dunn County and Barron County.
Often the police officer who makes the arrest doesn’t actually observe the driver operating the car in question. They may, however, find the individual passed out on the side of the road or sleeping in the driver’s seat. When this occurs, the blood or breath test may not bear the same weight. This is something that a seasoned DUI defense attorney can come to your rescue to gather and present all of these details to help your case.
Some common DUI / OWI questions and answers you’ll find helpful are:
Did the police officer have probable cause to inspire your traffic stop?
Your Drunk or Drugged Driving Defense Lawyer can investigate what led to the traffic stop and if it warranted a probable cause to administer the PBT which lead to making your arrest. If the officer lacked evidence, this can lead to your evidence getting suppressed.
Did the police officer have a rightful reason to make a traffic stop?
If not, then your OWI / DUI attorney can dispute the stop by collecting evidence, like the blood or breath test and the field sobriety tests suppressed.
Was the driver’s BAC (Blood Alcohol Curve) .08 or higher?
If yes, this does not mean it’s the end of the dispute. Your OWI lawyer can argue that the laboratory machines malfunctioned and made mistakes. A careful review of the records may lead to convincing arguments for a jury.
What is the Blood Alcohol Curve Defense?
Blood Alcohol Curve defense is based on the absorption rate of alcohol and the time of the very last drink. Similar to disputing the correctness of the chemical test defense, your DUI lawyer may argue that at the time of operation your blood alcohol level was lower than a .08.
How did the police manage the field sobriety test?
The Wisconsin police officers are trained to conduct three typical field sobriety tests. If there is a mistake in the way your Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus test, One Leg Stand or the Walk and Turn was handled, then your OWI defense attorney can use that to help lighten your conviction.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT LICENSE SUSPENSION in the state of Wisconsin:
If this is your first offence, the Wisconsin OWI criminal defense attorneys at Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. can appear on your behalf. These Drunk or Drugged Driving Defense Attorneys can make sure that each step of the process is completed
When you are accused of alcohol or drug intoxication you may face a suspension or a revocation of your driver’s license. For a DUI offense in Wisconsin, your license will be suspended authoritatively before a conviction for 6 months and disavowed upon conviction.
A Wisconsin driver’s license will be suspended 30 days in the wake of accepting a Notice of Intent to Suspend if you don’t ask for or lose an administrative review hearing.
Whether your case is DUI or an DUI causing injury or vehicular manslaughter, a Drunk or Drugged Driving Attorney can help you understand your rights and guide you in the right direction. We are ready and able to provide assistance for your situation. Contact Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C.
What to Know About an Under Age DUI Charge
That time of year is here again! College kids are returning home for the holiday and hanging out with old high school friends. Unfortunately, it’s ripe for a young driver to make one bad decision and drive while under the influence of weed, alcohol or medication. Drivers who aren’t of legal drinking age yet may not realize that a juvenile DUI can be even more severe than one for an adult driver.
With so much at stake, it’s urgent that you contact an experienced Wisconsin juvenile DUI attorney if you or a younger family member is facing juvenile DUI charges in Chippewa Falls, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Eau Claire, County, Menomonie, Dunn County, Rice Lake or Barron County, WI.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT DUI CRIMES FOR MINORS IN WISCONSIN
Newer drivers are an at-risk group with regards to safe driving in general so the penalties for juvenile drunk driving or drugged driving are even stricter than those for drivers who are 21 years old and up. The DUI law in Wisconsin for minors incorporates a zero tolerance policy for juvenile drivers accused of an OWI.
This means that a BAC reading above 0.00% is counted as a juvenile DUI crime and does not just stop at alcohol consumption. Under 21 drivers may be charged for the equivalent DUI crimes if they’re caught operating any kind of vehicle with an unlawful, impairing substance in their body system. For reference, drivers who are 21 and over with a .08 BAC or underneath do not consequently receive an OWI charge. That’s why it’s so serious for a driver under 21 years old.
A FIRST OFFENSE DOES NOT END WITH JUST A WRIST SLAP
A first time DUI offense for a juvenile driving under the influence of alcohol often comes with a $300 fine plus a suspended driver’s license for 6-9 months. This penalty is the same as for an adult but more serious penalties will arise if additional convictions occur.
If another DUI conviction occurs within 10 years of the primary conviction, fines may begin at $300 but can get up to $1000 plus one full year in jail and a suspended driver’s license for at least one year if not more.
Instant financial and social consequences are just the beginning. Auto insurance or protection rates will skyrocket for juveniles convicted of DUI in Wisconsin – especially for guilty parties with multiple convictions.
A juvenile OWI conviction may result in damaging, long-term financial harm such as additional premium costs every month or, even worse, no insurance at all since the company may drop policies without warning or a chance to renew.
WHY YOU NEED A JUVENILE DUI DEFENSE LAWYER
It’s important to note that drunk driving charges or DUI / OWI (driving under the influence or operating while intoxicated) charges are incredibly complex. There are so many detailed processes and tests that can be derailed by mistakes or wrong readings when it comes to proof of alcohol, weed or even OTC or prescription medication that come with warnings about operating heavy machinery while taking.
A seasoned juvenile criminal defense attorney with expertise in this area can scrutinize the process of how the blood was examined, whether the equipment used was functioning properly or if the evidence is the truth.
Also, there may be a number of other defenses like constitutional violations and defenses relating to a juvenile DUI charge, which an unskilled individual will not understand. These are complicated cases and need someone who has the experience, skill and knowledge in defending them.
If you or someone you know has been charged with juvenile DUI in Wisconsin, it’s urgent that you hire the best juvenile DUI attorney in Wisconsin to defend your case. Contact the attorneys at Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. today for a free consultation and to learn about payment plans.
UNDERSTANDING YOUR DRUG DRIVING CHARGE
An intoxication arrest is often associated with drunk driving but a DUI or an OWI could also mean the driver was under the influence of drugs, including prescription or even over-the-counter medications. If you have been charged with drug intoxication or DUI, connecting with a criminal defense attorney like Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. should be your first step because they will know to ask specific questions that may help dismiss your case.
For example, was your speech and physical behavior considered normal at the time of your arrest? If so, your OWI / DUI criminal defense lawyer can use this to your advantage in defending your drug intoxication case as the prosecution tries to demonstrate that you were extremely intoxicated to the point of being unable to care for your own safety or a danger to others. Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. have years of experience and expertise to represent you in even the most difficult of legal challenges that you may be facing.
Of course, you should never get behind the wheel if you have taken any kind of drugs (including over-the-counter medication with warnings such as cough medicine and recreational drugs like weed).
Getting pulled over and accused of an OWI, DUI or DWI charge from the police in Chippewa Falls, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Eau Claire County, Menomonie, Dunn County, Rice Lake and Barron County, WI can lead to serious charges. If you are arrested for a DUI, contacting an expert criminal defense attorney should be your first step. The OWI / DUI criminal defense lawyers at Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. have decades of experience handling drug driving-related offenses. They will have your best interests in mind as they represent your drug intoxication case and they can even offer payment plans. Most importantly, Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. offer guidance to quickly put these serious charges behind you.
Illegal medications found on display might be seized and utilized as proof. Be that as it may, drugs found in a hidden place can’t be entered into evidence. In the event that the defendant’s Fourth Amendment rights were violated, at that point the drugs can’t be utilized at trial and the charges normally are dropped.
Penalties You May Face:
If you are convicted of a drug related OWI, you may be required to take time away from your job and family to complete an impaired driver education program at a rehabilitation facility.
In Chippewa Falls, Chippewa County, Eau Claire, Eau Claire County, Menomonie, Dunn County, Rice Lake and Barron County, WI, the judge will most likely suspend your driver’s license for up to 3 years, depending on the conditions of your drug driving DUI case.
The following is a list of Drug Possession Defenses. And as an aside, if you are thinking your drug or alcohol consumption might be “a little out of control”, click the following link: https://www.help.org/prescription-drug-addiction-and-abuse.
The prosecution has to demonstrate that the substance they seized is absolutely the illegal drug they claim it is by sending the proof to a crime lab for examination. The crime lab analyst must then bear witness at trial in order for the prosecution to put forth its case.
A defense lawyer can argue with prosecutors to prove that the illegal substance found in the car did not belong to you which can help lessen or dismiss your case.
Entrapment happens when police initiate a suspect to commit a crime he or she otherwise may not have committed. If a law official pressures a suspect into passing drugs to a third party, for example, this can be viewed as entrapment. Entrapment takes place where the state provides the drugs being referred to.
States where medical marijuana has been legalized typically require a doctor’s signed recommendation. But some of those states also accommodate an affirmative defense by individuals arrested on marijuana possession charges who can show clear and credible evidence of medical necessity.
Prosecutors who lose or lack the drugs in question are at risk in their case being dismissed. Drugs that were seized are often transferred many times before making it into the evidence locker, so never be assume that the proof still exists during trial.
The Fourth Amendment to The U.S. Constitution ensures the privilege of fair treatment of law, including legal search and seizure methods before an arrest. Search and seizure issues are a regular territory for drug possession defenses.
If convicted of drugged driving (including prescription drugs), you could face a fine, driver’s license suspension or revocation, substance abuse counseling, jail time, and installation of an ignition interlock device (IID). These penalties can increase to a large extent if certain aggravating factors are present.
The OWI / DUI defense lawyers of Mullen Schlough & Associates S.C. have successfully litigated legal challenges and trials in OWI / DUI cases resulting in dismissals and acquittals. They have even helped drivers accused of driving under the influence avoid jail, preserve driving privileges and protect a good record.
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