Those accused of operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) offenses often feel embarrassed. The encounter that they have with law enforcement before their arrest can lead to humiliation in many cases, especially if their arrest occurs on a busy road.
They may worry about others finding out about the situation as well. That sense of embarrassment can push people to make the wrong choices in a difficult situation. Quite a few people facing OWI charges in Wisconsin make the mistake of pleading guilty despite maintaining their innocence. They may think that a guilty plea could help them avoid the worst penalties possible. However, the punishment then depends on the discretion of the courts. The following are some of the most common penalties imposed after an OWI arrest and conviction.
Significant financial penalties
The fines for a first offense without aggravating factors could range from $150 to $300. People may have to pay court costs. They also have to cover a $435 OWI surcharge and higher insurance costs. Fines increase with the number of OWI convictions on someone’s record. In cases involving multiple repeat offenses, the fines imposed could be as much as $50,000.
Time in state custody
First and second OWI charges where no one gets hurt usually do not lead to any confinement sentence. However, cases involving injuries or multiple prior offenses could lead to jail time. Someone convicted of a second OWI where people get hurt could face up to six months in state custody. Third offenses can lead to a year in prison. Those facing felony OWI charges could end up sentenced to up to a decade in prison in some cases.
Driver’s license consequences
The courts can revoke someone’s license after an OWI conviction. The more prior offenses on someone’s record, the longer they lose their license. A first OWI could lead to between six and nine months without a license. Someone with two prior offenses could lose their license for between two and three years after serving a period of incarceration.
The courts have to comply with state law when handing down a sentence. Those with prior OWI convictions or aggravating factors in their cases are at risk of more serious penalties than others. Defending against OWI charges successfully is the only way to avoid criminal penalties and a criminal record. Drivers who understand the risks of a guilty plea can potentially turn that knowledge into motivation to defend against their pending charges.