Can Getting Treatment After an OWI Arrest Help Your Case?

There is no question that criminal courts in Wisconsin have increasingly recognized the benefits of addiction treatment, both for drugs and alcohol. Getting the treatment following an arrest also shows the court that you are taking your arrest seriously, and this action can help to offset any penalties that you might later receive. A knowledgeable OWI defense lawyer can explain all of your legal options to you and help you decide on the best course of action to get you the best possible result in your case.

To find out more about how we can assist with defending you against your pending criminal charge, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online for more information.  

What Is an OWI in Wisconsin?

OWI in Wisconsin stands for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. In Wisconsin, it is against the law for a driver who is over 21 years of age to operate a vehicle while they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. Similarly, a driver cannot operate a vehicle while they are under the influence of an intoxicant, controlled substance, or another drug. When drivers have three or more prior convictions for OWI on their record, they may not operate a vehicle with a BAC that is higher than 0.02 percent. For drivers who are under 21 years old, a zero-tolerance policy is in place.

If a breathalyzer test shows that a person has an excessive BAC, then they can be arrested and ultimately convicted of an OWI. Upon conviction, the driver can be looking at fines, jail time, community service, probation, loss of their driver’s license, and other potential consequences.

Goals of OWI Treatment Programs

Taking part in an OWI treatment program shows a criminal court judge that you are taking your arrest seriously. Wisconsin OWI treatment programs for drugs and alcohol have two primary goals. The first goal is to provide individuals with various options that are not available in state prisons and jails. The other purpose of the program is to reduce the chances that an individual will sustain a subsequent OWI arrest. In fact, individuals who complete drug or alcohol treatment programs are almost 20 times less likely to be arrested for a subsequent criminal offense. Therefore, these programs work, and taking the initiative and actively participating in one can potentially be helpful to your case. 

Contact a Knowledgeable Criminal OWI Defense Attorney About Your Legal Matter Today

If you are facing criminal OWI charges, it is important that you involve a knowledgeable attorney in your case as soon as possible. To schedule a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online