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Don't Let an OWI Ruin Your Holiday Weekend

Michael Cohen • December 17, 2020
Car Keys and Beverage on Table — Eau Claire, WI — Cohen Law Offices
Christmas is a time for family members and friends to get together, enjoy good food, and maybe even enjoy a drink or two. However, trouble can start when a person who consumes an alcoholic beverage gets behind the wheel of a car and drives off. 

In the state of Wisconsin, OWI means operating while intoxicated. An OWI arrest can not only ruin your holiday weekend, but an arrest and conviction can lead to serious penalties that could impact your life for many days and months to come. 

If you have been arrested for OWI over the Christmas holiday weekend, it is important to have skilled legal counsel on your side representing you throughout your case, advocating for you, and safeguarding all of your legal rights.

What Is an OWI Charge?

The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in the state of Wisconsin is 0.08 percent. A police officer can charge you with OWI if they believe that your BAC level exceeded 0.08 percent when operating your vehicle. 

What Are the Potential Penalties for an OWI Conviction?

First-offense OWI convictions are not criminal offenses in Wisconsin. Nevertheless, if you are convicted for a first-time OWI, you could be fined in excess of $800. In addition, your driver’s license will be suspended for at least six months. In addition, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on your vehicle. This device requires you to blow into it before you can start your vehicle. If the device detects any alcohol on your breath, it will not allow the vehicle to start. In addition to the initial installation fee, there are costs associated with maintaining these devices.


If you incur an OWI charge for a second or third time, you will likely be facing criminal misdemeanor charges. Specifically, if you are convicted of a second-time OWI, the judge must impose jail time lasting between five days (minimum) and six months (maximum). If you are convicted of a third-time OWI, a judge must incarcerate you for 45 days (minimum) up to one year (maximum). A fourth-time OWI conviction is a felony conviction, and a judge has the discretion to sentence you in excess of one year of incarceration.


In addition to the jail time associated with these offenses, you may also receive monetary fines, a driver’s license suspension (for longer than a first-time OWI charge), and mandatory installation of an IID on your vehicle. 

Call an Experienced OWI Attorney Today

If you face OWI charges, you should speak with an experienced attorney immediately. 

Call Cohen Law Offices at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online today for a free legal consultation and case evaluation with an experienced OWI lawyer.

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