Wisconsin OWI/DUI Laws
Being charged with OWI/DUI in Wisconsin is serious. You risk license suspension, license revocation, and jail time. Having the right lawyer on your side can make the difference between an OWI/DUI charge dismissal and losing your freedom.
Attorneys Andrew Mishlove and Lauren Stuckert are authorities on Wisconsin OWI/DUI laws. We invite you to explore answers to frequently asked questions here or during a free consultation.
You Have Rights Let Our OWI/DUI Defense Attorneys Defend Them
It goes without saying that our OWI/DUI defense attorneys are not in favor of drunk driving. However, we are in favor of making sure that every individual's legal rights are thoroughly defended, regardless of the charges they face. Let us provide the fair and honest representation you need during this difficult time.
Don't Fight OWI/DUI Charges Alone Call the attorneys at Mishlove and Stuckert, Attorneys at Law today
If you have been charged with OWI/DUI, our attorneys' advanced understanding of Wisconsin law can save your license and your freedom. In fact, the very first Wisconsin OWI/DUI attorney's textbook was co-authored by Andrew Mishlove. Our focus on this specific area of criminal law can help you avoid jail time, license suspension, and other serious penalties, especially if you have prior OWI/DUI convictions. Now is the time to reach out to our firm. Call us today for a free case review:
(414) 332-3499
"Mishlove & Stuckert are true experts in the field. They are committed to their clients beyond the courtroom, ensuring a smooth process during a difficult time for anyone involved in a case. The kinship between the lawyers is palpable, not to mention a warm and engaging staff. I highly recommend!" Sandy R., 5-Star Google Review
Can you really fight
a Wisconsin OWI/DUI charge?
Just because you’re facing an OWI/DUI charge in Wisconsin doesn't mean you don't stand a chance of beating the charges. Because our attorneys are true OWI/DUI specialists, they can build a defense against the charges that could result in a case dismissal or reduced charges, just as they have done for many clients over the years. If you or someone you love is facing OWI/DUI charges, we know you probably have many questions. We invite you to explore answers to some of the most common questions our clients ask:
How long does the DA have to charge you with an OWI/DUI offense?
Under Wisconsin law, the district attorney has up to three years to charge you in a misdemeanor OWI/DUI case. In felony situations, there’s no limit on how long the office has to charge you. Felony cases typically involve accidents or multiple OWIs/DUIs.
Can I be charged with an OWI/DUI in Wisconsin if I didn’t have a blood test?
The state can charge you with an OWI/DUI if you have a breath or blood test that registers your blood alcohol concentration at greater than .08 percent. It is illegal for a driver to operate a motor vehicle with a blood or breath alcohol concentration of .08 or greater. If you already have three prior offenses, or you are under an ignition interlock device (IID) order, that number goes down to .02 on a breath or blood test.
You Can Still Be Convicted Without a Breath, Blood, or Urine Test
Though rare, it is possible for someone to be convicted of drunk driving without a breath, blood, or urine test in Wisconsin. Even if you think your case is rock-solid, your safest bet is to hire an OWI/DUI attorney who understands the prosecutor's angles and can provide a strong defense in court.
Am I going to lose my license?
You face license revocation if you’re convicted of an OWI/DUI in Wisconsin. That makes choosing an attorney who can mount a strong defense extremely important. Hire the very best lawyer to guide you through the court system and explain the law. Attorneys Andrew Mishlove and Lauren Stuckert can protect your rights and your freedom.
Offices Throughout Wisconsin Let Mishlove & Stuckert Help
With OWI/DUI law offices in Milwaukee, Waukesha, Oshkosh, and West Bend, WI, our attorneys are prepared to help you defend yourself, no matter where you are in Wisconsin. Contact us to arrange a free case review at the location most convenient for you.
(414) 332-3499
Our Wisconsin Clients Leave Excellent Reviews "Andrew came up with a great game plan for my case."
Karen
Milwaukee, WI
Andrew Mishlove recently defended my son at his OWI trial. It was Mr. Mishlove's thorough preparation of all materials and ability to present facts in a clear manner that permitted the jury to unanimously vote Not Guilty. Look no further. Well worth the cost! Highly recommend!
View on GoogleGuy Grenfell
Milwaukee, WI
I had the unfortunate experience of having to go through my first DUI. After explaining my case to Andrew he came up with a great game plan for my case. He ended up getting my breathalyzer results dropped due to the officers not following proper procedures. It was very impressive how he turned the case around on the prosecutor and won over the judge! This was a huge win for me due to having to drive other peoples cars for a living. I highly recommend Mishlove & Stuckert!
View on GoogleDrunk Driving Convictions Result in the Loss of Licenses
If you are convicted of drunk driving in Wisconsin, you will lose your license, but various factors will affect the length of revocation and whether you will be required to install an ignition interlock device if you get your license back. Each case is different. Contact our OWI/DUI attorneys to get a clear understanding of your options for defense.
Our Wisconsin OWI/DUI
Attorneys Can Help
If I Have a CDL Are the Laws Different?
If you drive for a living, and you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), Wisconsin law changes significantly. If you’re operating a commercial motor vehicle while you’re under the influence and you have a BAC of .04% or greater, your CDL can be revoked for a year after your first offense.
A second offense can result in your CDL being revoked for life. The fines vary, as do the jail sentences, and if you were carrying hazardous materials at the time, your CDL is gone for three years. Even if you’re not driving a commercial vehicle at the time, you are disqualified from holding your CDL for a year. After your second violation, you can’t have a CDL for the rest of your life.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin OWI/DUI Law
I had a passenger under the age of 16. Does that change things?
If you’re driving with a passenger who is under the age of 16 and you are pulled over and charged with an OWI/DUI, the penalties automatically double. A first offense with a minor under 16 becomes a criminal misdemeanor. If you’re convicted, the court has to impose a jail sentence of at least five days.
What happens if you cause an accident while driving under the influence?
If you cause an injury by driving while intoxicated, you may face up to a year in jail, pay thousands of dollars in fines, and have an ignition interlock device installed. If, however, that accident results in great bodily harm (a serious or permanent injury) or death, the offense becomes a felony, and you could be facing years in prison, as well as fines of up to $100,000.
What constitutes felony OWI/DUI in Wisconsin?
You may be charged with a felony in the event of an accident that causes great bodily harm or death, or if you’ve been convicted of four or more OWI/DUI offenses.
How am I supposed to get to work if I am convicted of OWI/DUI and have my license suspended?
Aside from depending on others or taking public transportation, you could apply for an occupational license. This would allow you to drive to work and for other limited purposes for no more than 60 hours per week. If you have a prior OWI/DUI conviction, an occupational license requires a 45-day waiting period. Regardless of prior convictions, you will have a longer waiting period for an occupational license if you injured others while intoxicated. Your occupational license will require special proof of insurance called an SR22 certificate.
Can the court require me to get an ignition interlock device?
Wisconsin courts can require you to get an ignition interlock device (or IID) if you’re being charged with a subsequent offense, if you refused to provide a blood or breath test, or if you had a BAC level of .15 or higher. You are only allowed to operate IID-equipped vehicles for the duration, and you must pay the installation and leasing fees of the device.
Can blood test results be wrong?
Blood tests CAN be wrong. We have the best, most advanced training in headspace gas chromatography, the method that was used to test your blood. No other OWI/DUI law firm in Wisconsin is better trained to find any mistakes in your blood test.
Not Afraid to Take a Case to Trial
Not every OWI/DUI case goes to trial, but our Wisconsin OWI/DUI defense attorneys are always prepared to do so. According to Andrew Mishlove, the worst possible outcome is a client regretting that they settled rather than fighting in court. Even if you feel your back is against the wall, Mishlove and Stuckert, LLC Attorneys at Law are ready to stand by your side.
Don't Risk Your License or Freedom
"These people are class acts." Put Your Case in the Very Best Hands
Z L
Milwaukee, WI
At the beginning of my experience I interviewed several attorneys. When Andrew called he was very caring and enjoyable to talk to. He asked many things about me and took the time to get to know me. We then discussed how he could help, and he gave me no nonsense straight forward answers. In the end everything they told me was honest, and the outcomes happened as they predicted and coached me on. Their guidance through my issue was exceptional. These people are class acts.
View on GoogleDaniel Benson
Milwaukee, WI
1st OWI reduced to reckless driving. An absolute life changer and we are so deeply grateful for the expertise and knowledge that this law firm has provided. Everyone at this firm was kind, respectful and hard working. We were kept informed of the proceedings as they were happening and our questions were answered promptly, even after hours. I cannot put into words how much Andrew Mishlove has helped us through the impossible. He is worth every penny of his fee! Best lawyer hands down! Regards!
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