Should You Go to Substance Abuse Counseling Before Your Court Date?

The issue of substance abuse frequently arises with various criminal charges, including OWI and domestic violence. If you are currently pending either of these charges, it is essential that you retain an experienced lawyer to represent you in your case as soon as possible. In addition, it is a good idea to attend substance-abuse counseling prior to your court date. The experienced attorneys at Cohen Law Offices can discuss that issue with you, in addition to your potential legal defenses, when meeting with you to discuss your case.

To learn 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.

OWI

OWI stands for operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Alcohol intoxication can severely impact a driver’s ability to operate their vehicle safely. They might experience blurred vision, delayed reaction time, and an inability to concentrate. Consequently, a driver with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or more is legally intoxicated. 

The state prosecutor handling your criminal case has the sole legal burden of proof. They must satisfy this legal burden beyond a reasonable doubt. If the prosecutor obtains a conviction against you, you might be looking at hefty fines, jail time, community service, and administrative penalties, including a driver’s license suspension or revocation. Moreover, a judge may order you to attend a drug and alcohol treatment program.

Before your case even goes to court, however, it is a good idea to attend substance-abuse counseling — before a judge requires you to do so. Taking this action shows that you are proactive, that you admit to having an alcohol problem, and that you are taking your criminal case seriously.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is not a separate criminal charge in Wisconsin. However, a criminal charge may include a domestic violence component if it involves two individuals who live together under the same roof. In many instances, domestic violence charges — including assault or battery — involve alcohol. For example, one of the spouses or partners might have been drinking prior to the incident. If consumption of alcohol had taken place, the accused individual is usually better off attending substance-abuse counseling before going to court on their charge. Again, the counseling shows a judge that the accused is taking their case seriously and obtaining treatment, even though a court has not yet required them to do so. This action can potentially lessen the court-imposed penalties if the accused is ultimately convicted on the charge.

Speak to a Knowledgeable Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Pending Charge Today

If you are currently pending a criminal charge for an OWI or a domestic violence offense, it is important that you have skilled legal counsel on your side as soon as possible. After meeting with you to discuss your charge, we can determine if you are eligible to raise a legal defense to your charge — or whether you should consider accepting a plea deal, depending upon the circumstances. For a free case evaluation and consultation with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney, please call Cohen Law Offices today at (715) 514-5051 or contact us online.