4th offense owi in wisconsin

Wisconsin OWI defense lawyer

In Wisconsin, operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated can lead to serious legal repercussions. It is crucial to comprehend the laws, potential penalties, and available legal options if you find yourself facing 4th OWI charges.

According to Wisconsin law, operating while intoxicated (OWI) refers to driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol or drugs) which renders the driver incapable of safely driving. You might see your traffic ticket refer to violations to Wisconsin statute “346.63“.

Wisconsin PAC or Restricted Controlled Substance Lawyer

The prohibited alcohol concentration (PAC) after a third OWI offense for drivers is 0.02, but you don’t necessarily have to blow a 0.02 to be charged. You can be charged with an OWI if the court determines that you were incapable of safely driving while under the influence of any amount of alcohol. In addition, you may be convicted of an OWI with any amount of restricted controlled substance in your blood.

Wisconsin Fourth OWI Offense

A fourth OWI offense is a Class H felony in Wisconsin. After a third OWI offense conviction, if you are caught driving with a BAC of 0.02 or higher at any time in your life, you can be charged with a felony. So even though you may be driving with a BAC level below 0.08, you may still be violating your PAC of 0.02. For most people, 0.02 is generally one drink or less.

Our Promise

Our law firm will review any misdemeanors charged in your case, explain what those charges mean, and advise you on your best legal options. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get the best representation you need in your unique circumstances.

Please use this guide provided by wicourts.gov to help you understand the consequences you are facing and what to do next.

WI OWI Penalty Chart (pdf)

Possible consequences for Operating While Intoxicated

If convicted of operating a vehicle while intoxicated for the fourth time, you could face several punishments, including:

  • 60 days to 6 years in jail
  • Class H Felony
  • $600 to $10,000 in fines
  • $435 driver improvement surcharge
  • Driver’s license revoked 2-3 years
  • Driver’s license revoked for life with no possibility of occupational license if previously convicted within 15 years
  • Required absolute sobriety for an occupational license, if eligible
  • Mandatory use of an ignition interlock device (IID) for 1-3 years
  • Travel ban to Canada and problems traveling abroad in European Union

What happens if you fail to appear in court?

Being charged with a fourth OWI offense is a criminal felony offense. So if you do not appear in court, there will be a warrant issued for your arrest, meaning you can be arrested at any time. Make sure to contact a specialized traffic attorney that understands Wisconsin’s OWI offenses well.

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