How to Get Out of an OWI in Wisconsin
Driving while intoxicated (OWI) is a serious offense in Wisconsin, and can result in hefty fines, jail time, and the loss of your driver’s license. If you’ve been arrested for OWI, it’s important to understand your rights and options and take steps to minimize the consequences.
Know Your Rights
When you’re arrested for OWI, you have the right to remain silent, to have an attorney present, and to refuse a breathalyzer test. It’s important to understand these rights and to exercise them, as they can help you protect your case.
Get an Attorney
If you’ve been arrested for OWI, it’s important to get an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced OWI attorney can help you understand your rights, negotiate with the prosecution, and build a strong defense.
Gather Evidence
After you’ve been arrested for OWI, it’s important to gather evidence that can help your case. This may include witness statements, photos, or videos of the incident. You should also keep a record of any injuries or property damage that you sustained.
Negotiate with the Prosecution
In some cases, you may be able to negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the charges against you. This may involve agreeing to plead guilty to a lesser offense, or to participate in a treatment program.
Go to Trial
If you’re unable to negotiate a plea agreement, you may have to go to trial. At trial, the prosecution will have to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving while intoxicated. Your attorney can present evidence and cross-examine witnesses to challenge the prosecution’s case.
The Latest Trends and Developments in OWI Law
In recent years, there have been several important developments in OWI law. These include:
- The increased use of ignition interlock devices.
- The legalization of recreational marijuana.
- The growing number of OWI arrests involving prescription drugs.
These developments have had a significant impact on the way that OWI cases are prosecuted and defended. It’s important to be aware of these changes if you’re facing OWI charges.
Tips and Expert Advice for Getting Out of an OWI
If you’ve been arrested for OWI, there are a few things you can do to help your case:
- Get an attorney as soon as possible.
- Gather evidence that can help your case.
- Be prepared to negotiate with the prosecution.
- Go to trial if you’re unable to negotiate a plea agreement.
Following these tips can help you improve your chances of getting out of an OWI with minimal consequences.
Expert Advice
In addition to the tips above, here are some expert tips for getting out of an OWI:
- Be polite and respectful to the police officers.
- Don’t try to hide or destroy evidence.
- Answer the police officers’ questions honestly.
- Don’t make any admissions of guilt.
- Be prepared to spend the night in jail.
Following these expert tips can help you make the best of a difficult situation.
FAQ
Q: What are the penalties for OWI in Wisconsin?
A: The penalties for OWI in Wisconsin vary depending on the number of prior offenses and the blood alcohol content (BAC) at the time of arrest. For a first offense with a BAC of .08 or higher, the penalties include a fine of up to $300, a license suspension of up to one year, and up to six months in jail.
Q: Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?
A: Yes, you have the right to refuse a breathalyzer test. However, refusing a breathalyzer test can result in an automatic license suspension.
Q: What should I do if I’m arrested for OWI?
A: If you’re arrested for OWI, you should get an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced OWI attorney can help you understand your rights and options and build a strong defense.
Conclusion
If you’ve been arrested for OWI in Wisconsin, it’s important to understand your rights and options. By following the tips and advice in this article, you can improve your chances of getting out of an OWI with minimal consequences.
Are you interested in learning more about OWI law in Wisconsin? If so, please contact an experienced OWI attorney today.
