Drinking and Driving Offenses

DUI, DWI & OWI Charges in Minnesota & Wisconsin

Alcohol related driving offenses may be referred to as DWI (driving while intoxicated), DUI (driving under the influence) and OWI (operating while under the influence). These cases are often more complicated than they may appear at first: At issue:

At issue:

• License revocations under the implied consent laws
  
• Limited driving privileges
  
• InterLock ignition
  
• License plate forfeiture and specialized plates
  
• Vehicle forfeiture
  
• Jail time
  
• Alcohol education or treatment programs

It is against the law in Minnesota and Wisconsin (and all states) to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08. Even without a valid test of blood, breath or urine, you may be prosecuted for driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol based on an officer's observations of you.

In Wisconsin a first offense for OWI is not considered a crime. It is a (financial) forfeiture for which you may be assessed a fine but no jail time. While paying a fine or forfeiture may seem painless, there may be collateral consequences - such as driving restrictions - if you admit to a forfeiture in Wisconsin.