Facing a fourth OWI charge in Wisconsin is a serious matter with potentially life-altering consequences. This is considered a felony offense, and you'll need a skilled Wisconsin OWI fourth offense lawyer by your side to navigate the legal complexities and fight for the best possible outcome.
Nero DUI Defense understands the gravity of a fourth OWI offense and the potential penalties you face. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense strategy, meticulously examining the details of your arrest and exploring all legal options. This may involve challenging the stop itself, questioning the validity of field sobriety tests or breathalyzer results, or uncovering any procedural errors made by the arresting officer.
Penalties for 4th Plus DUI in Wisconsin
A fourth OWI conviction in Wisconsin comes with some of the harshest penalties under state law. As a repeat offender, you face life-altering consequences that go beyond fines and jail time.
Felony Conviction: A fourth OWI is a felony, resulting in the permanent loss of certain civil rights, including the right to vote and possess firearms. This felony conviction remains on your record indefinitely, creating substantial barriers to employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Lifetime License Revocation: A fourth OWI conviction results in a lifetime revocation of your driver's license. While reinstatement may be possible after ten years, it is not guaranteed. The process involves demonstrating proof of sobriety, maintaining a clean driving record, and successfully petitioning the Department of Transportation. Even if reinstated, strict ignition interlock device (IID) requirements and other driving restrictions are likely.
Imprisonment: A mandatory minimum of 60 days in jail is imposed for a fourth OWI. However, the potential prison sentence can range from 3 to 6 years, depending on the specific circumstances of the case. This sentence can be further increased if aggravating factors are present, such as an accident, injury, or death resulting from the OWI. Felony OWI convictions also often include supervised release and parole, which can impose restrictions on travel, employment, and substance use.
Financial Penalties: Fines for a fourth OWI can range from $600 to $10,000. In addition to these fines, you will be responsible for court costs, probation fees, and expenses associated with mandatory OWI education programs. Insurance premiums will significantly increase, and you may even lose coverage altogether, making it extremely difficult and expensive to regain driving privileges. If an accident occurred, you could also be held financially responsible for property damage and the medical expenses of any injured parties.
Building a Strong Defense for a Fourth OWI in Wisconsin
Your defense strategy can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Potential defenses include:
- Challenging the Traffic Stop: Was there reasonable suspicion to pull you over?
- Questioning Sobriety Test Accuracy: Breathalyzer and field sobriety tests are not always reliable.
- Investigating Police Misconduct: Any procedural errors could weaken the prosecution's case.
- Medical & Health Conditions: Certain conditions can lead to false BAC (blood alcohol concentration) results.
- Rising BAC Defense: Alcohol absorption rates may affect your BAC reading at the time of testing.
The Importance of Early Legal Intervention
Time is critical when facing your fourth OWI charge. The sooner you secure experienced legal counsel, the better positioned you are to protect evidence, preserve your rights, and build a strong defense strategy. Early intervention may prevent additional complications and can significantly influence the outcome of your case. Facing a fourth OWI charge requires immediate and aggressive legal representation. Contacting a skilled Wisconsin OWI attorney, like those at Nero DUI Defense, is critical.
How an OWI Attorney Can Help
Don't face these daunting charges alone. The experienced Wisconsin OWI attorneys at Nero DUI Defense understand the complexities of fourth offense OWI cases and can provide invaluable legal guidance and representation. They can investigate the circumstances of your arrest, challenge evidence, and build a strong defense aimed at minimizing the consequences you face.
Contact Nero DUI Defense today for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum sentence for a 4th OWI in Wisconsin?
A fourth OWI in Wisconsin carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 60 days in jail. However, depending on the circumstances, penalties can range from 3 to 6 years in state prison, along with significant fines and permanent license revocation. Aggravating factors, such as causing injury or having a high BAC, may lead to even harsher penalties.
Can an OWI be reduced in Wisconsin?
In some cases, an OWI charge may be reduced or dismissed, but this depends on the strength of the prosecution’s case and available defense strategies. Factors like improper traffic stops, faulty breathalyzer results, or procedural errors could provide grounds for a reduction. A skilled Wisconsin OWI defense attorney can assess your case and explore options for lesser charges or alternative sentencing.
Can you drive after an OWI in Wisconsin?
After an OWI conviction, your driving privileges are immediately affected. For a fourth OWI offense, your driver’s license is permanently revoked. However, after 10 years, you may petition for reinstatement under strict conditions. In lesser OWI cases, individuals may qualify for occupational licenses, allowing limited driving for work or essential activities.
How many DUIs can you get in Wisconsin before you lose your license?
The penalties increase with each OWI offense:
- First OWI – License suspension for 6 to 9 months (occupational license may be available).
- Second OWI – License revocation for 12 to 18 months, plus ignition interlock device (IID) requirements.
- Third OWI – License revocation for 2 to 3 years, plus IID requirements.
- Fourth OWI – Lifetime revocation of your driver’s license (possible reinstatement after 10 years under strict conditions).
