Aubrey Lambert 2024-03-18T10:11:45+0000

Driving under the influence (OWI) is a serious offense in Wisconsin, and when a minor is present in the vehicle, the consequences can be even more severe. In this blog post, we'll delve into the penalties associated with OWI when a minor passenger is involved in the state of Wisconsin.

Wisconsin law takes a strong stance against OWI, particularly when minors are put at risk. Here are some key points to consider:

Legal Limit and Definition: In Wisconsin, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. This limit applies to all drivers, regardless of whether minors are present in the vehicle. OWI occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a BAC at or above this limit.

Penalties for OWI with a Minor Passenger: When a minor under the age of 16 is present in the vehicle at the time of the OWI offense, the penalties become more severe. The presence of a minor can lead to enhanced penalties, including increased fines, longer license suspensions, and potential jail time.

First Offense: For a first offense OWI with a minor passenger in Wisconsin, the penalties may include fines ranging from $350 to $1,100, a license suspension of up to 18 months, and a possible jail sentence of up to 6 months.

Second Offense: A second OWI offense with a minor passenger can result in even harsher penalties, including fines of up to $2,200, a license suspension of up to 18 months, and a mandatory minimum jail sentence of 5 days, up to a maximum of 6 months.

Subsequent Offenses: For subsequent OWI offenses with a minor passenger, the penalties escalate further, with increased fines, longer license suspensions, and mandatory jail time.

Additional Consequences: In addition to legal penalties, OWI convictions can have long-term consequences, including increased insurance premiums, difficulties finding employment, and social stigma.

Legal Representation: If you're facing OWI charges in Wisconsin, especially with a minor passenger involved, it's crucial to seek legal representation immediately. An experienced OWI attorney can help you understand your rights, build a strong defense, and navigate the legal process effectively.

At The Law Office of Michael Hayes, LLC, they understand the gravity of OWI charges, especially when a minor passenger is involved. Their dedicated team is committed to providing aggressive legal representation to individuals facing OWI allegations in Wisconsin.

For more details, visit https://michaelhayeslaw.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-owi-with-a-minor-passenger-in-wisconsin/

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Aria Rivera 2023-03-09T10:10:23+0000

Operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) with a minor passenger in Wisconsin is considered a serious criminal offense that carries severe penalties. In this blog, we will discuss what constitutes an OWI with a minor passenger in Wisconsin, the penalties for such an offense, and the potential long-term consequences.

In Wisconsin, an OWI with a minor passenger is defined as operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a passenger under the age of 16 in the vehicle. Even if the driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is below the legal limit of 0.08%, they can still be charged with OWI if they exhibit signs of impairment.

With no prior convictions and without a child in the car, you would have a civil offense of operating under the influence. It wouldn’t be a crime. However, with the change in the law in Wisconsin a few years ago, having a minor child in the car subjects you to up to 6 months in jail, a fine of $1,100 + costs, 18-month revocation of operating privileges, assessment, and compliance with a driver safety plan. If your alcohol concentration at the time of operation is 0.15 or higher you will be subject to an 18-month Ignition Interlock order.

In addition to these penalties, a person convicted of OWI with a minor passenger in Wisconsin will also face significant long-term consequences. They may have difficulty obtaining employment, housing, or professional licenses. They may also face higher insurance rates or may be denied coverage altogether. A conviction for OWI with a minor passenger can also impact child custody proceedings and result in the loss of parenting rights.

It is important to note that Wisconsin law enforcement takes OWI with a minor passenger very seriously, and the penalties can be even more severe if the driver caused bodily harm or death to the child passenger. In these cases, the driver could face felony charges, lengthy prison sentences, and substantial fines.

Being accused of OWI with a minor passenger in the vehicle is a severe matter in Wisconsin. If you are convicted, you could spend a significant amount of time in jail, suffer a lengthy license revocation, be under an Ignition Interlock order, pay thousands in fines, be saddled with a criminal record, and suffer other consequences previously outlined.

That is why you should retain a Milwaukee OWI lawyer at the Law Office of Michael Hayes today.

For more details visit https://michaelhayeslaw.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-owi-with-a-minor-passenger-in-wisconsin/

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Claire Price 2023-02-17T11:22:23+0000

Operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) is a serious offense in Wisconsin. But the consequences can be even more severe if you have a minor passenger in your car. Driving under the influence with a minor passenger is considered a child endangerment offense, which can lead to severe legal and personal consequences. In this blog, we will discuss the penalties for OWI with a minor passenger in Wisconsin.

Suppose your 14-year-old child attends a birthday party with a friend at the Milwaukee Art Museum or the Harley-Davidson Museum. You have had a few drinks and you get an unexpected call to pick up your child. On the way home, an officer stops you for suspected drunk driving. Your minor child is in the car. You are in serious trouble!

What is OWI with a Minor Passenger in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, OWI with a minor passenger occurs when an adult driver is found to be operating a vehicle while intoxicated, and there is a passenger under the age of 16 in the vehicle. The offense is considered child endangerment, and the driver may face enhanced penalties and fines for putting a child's safety at risk.

Penalties for OWI with a Minor Passenger in Wisconsin

The penalties for OWI with a minor passenger in Wisconsin are severe and can include jail time, fines, and a lengthy license suspension. A first-time offender may face up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,100, and a mandatory license suspension of at least six months. The offender may also be required to attend alcohol and drug education programs and perform community service.

For a second offense, the penalties increase significantly. The offender may face up to 18 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a mandatory license suspension of at least one year. The offender may also be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle and attend alcohol and drug education programs.

That is why you should retain a Milwaukee OWI lawyer at the Law Office of Michael Hayes today. Their attorneys will protect your rights and mitigate the consequences. In some cases, a jury trial will be recommended.

Visit https://michaelhayeslaw.com/what-are-the-penalties-for-owi-with-a-minor-passenger-in-wisconsin/ to know more.

 

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