Milwaukee DUI Attorney

Aggressive Defenses Against DUI Charges in Wisconsin 

If you have been arrested and charged with drunk driving, DUI (driving under the influence), or OWI (operating a motor vehicle while under the influence), you need the skilled representation of a Milwaukee attorney as soon as possible! There are harsh penalties associated with a DUI conviction, but with the help of Jason from the Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz on your side, you may be able to reduce or dismiss the charges altogether. Navigating the local courts can be daunting, but our understanding of Milwaukee's legal system allows us to communicate effectively with judges and prosecutors, potentially negotiating better outcomes for you. Additionally, our deep familiarity with Wisconsin's DUI laws means we can identify any missteps in your arrest process that could be leveraged in your defense.

Are you facing a DUI charge in Wisconsin? Call The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz today at (414) 375-0797 or contact us online to meet with our Milwaukee DUI Lawyer!

What are the Penalties for a DUI in Wisconsin?

The penalties for a DUI (driving under the influence) conviction in Milwaukee vary depending on the exact circumstances of the incident. The court will look how far over the maximum BAC (blood alcohol concentration) the defendant is past .08%. Also, if illegal drugs are involved, or it is a repeat offense the penalties become more severe each time and you risk losing your license for good. If you caused a car accident while driving under the influence and it resulted in injury or fatality, not only will you have to face serious consequences, but you may be held liable if they file a personal injury claim against you.

First-Time DUI Conviction

• Hundreds of dollars in fines
• Up to 6 months in jail
• License revoked up to 9 months
• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in a car

First-time offenders might feel overwhelmed at the prospect of these penalties. However, our legal team is well-versed in the defenses available, such as questioning the accuracy of breath test results or the legality of your traffic stop. Understanding that mistakes happen, we advocate for clients, seeking to reduce the impact these charges may have on their future opportunities, such as employment prospects or auto insurance rates.

Multiple DUI Conviction (Previous Charge Within 5-10 Years)

• Up to 6 years imprisonment
• $10,000 in fines
• Up to 3 years' license suspension
• and More.

For those facing multiple DUI convictions, the stakes are higher, and the need for an aggressive defense strategy is even more critical. Repeat offenders in Milwaukee may be eligible for alternative interventions, such as alcohol education or personalized rehabilitation programs, reflecting our commitment to addressing underlying issues leading to repeat offenses. Our office routinely works with clients to construct compelling cases for alternative sentencing, presenting evidence of personal growth and commitment to change as persuasive factors to the court.

How Long Does Your First DUI Stay on Your Record in Wisconsin?

Your first DUI will stay on your criminal record for the rest of your life unless you can get it expunged. Wisconsin maintains a record of a driver’s DUI conviction for 10 years, and drivers are assessed six points for driving under the influence on their driving record. Those points remain for five years. For instance, if you received another DUI within ten years of your previous DUI, it will count as a subsequent DUI. If you received your first DUI ten years before your second DUI, then the second one will count as a second. If you received your second DUI 11 years after your first, it will count as your first DUI. A DUI will still raise your car insurance rates because of the apparent risks of driving while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Building a case for expungement involves showing evidence of rehabilitation and demonstrating significant life changes, potentially warranting removal from your record to enable you to regain complete control over your legal and professional standing.

Do DUI Rates Increase During the Holidays?

During the holidays, law enforcement typically expects more drunk drivers on the road, and because of this assumption, they will ultimately find more. Behavior that might have been passable and safe months ago is now considered dangerous and worthy of a traffic stop.

Furthermore, the cold weather is working against drivers as well. The increased difficulty of maintaining control of your vehicle as the roads get frosty can make it seem as if you are more intoxicated than you are. Think about it from an outside perspective: if you see a car wiggling or skidding after leaving a party, are you going to think roadway conditions are causing the trouble, or is alcohol to blame?

Lastly, eggnog, champagne, and other spirits are passed around merrily during the holidays, so it is essential to remember possessing a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level higher than 0.08% – the widely-known legal standard – is all you need to be arrested for a DUI, or OWI (operating while intoxicated). Our legal team prepares clients ahead of time with practical advice on how to enjoy festivities responsibly, ensuring you are aware of local DUI checkpoints and offering alternative transport solutions to avoid any potential legal complications during this festive season.

What to Expect in Milwaukee Courts

Understanding the local court system is crucial when facing a DUI charge in Milwaukee. Milwaukee courts follow Wisconsin state laws but have particular procedures and protocols that must be followed. Procedures such as Initial Appearances, where bail is set, and Preliminary Hearings, where evidence is reviewed, can be daunting without professional guidance. The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz ensures comprehensive representation during every phase of your case, leveraging our detailed understanding of these court operations.

Contact Our Milwaukee DUI Attorney

Everything comes together for law enforcement when individuals have any alcohol in their system and are operating a motor vehicle. However, if you have been charged by law enforcement for drinking and driving, you still have a fighting chance. We offer free initial consultations 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so don’t hesitate to contact us when you need us. Our round-the-clock availability ensures that our team is ready and prepared to assist no matter when you need urgent advice. Understanding the nuances of local law enforcement tactics helps us craft tailored defenses even under the most challenging circumstances.

Contact The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz today for a FREE consultation with our DUI lawyer in Milwaukee! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Rights Do I Have if I’m Pulled Over for a DUI in Milwaukee?

If pulled over for a suspected DUI in Milwaukee, you have several rights to be aware of. Firstly, you have the right to remain silent; you’re not obliged to answer questions beyond providing identification and vehicle registration. It’s advisable to politely decline field sobriety tests, as these can be subjective. You also have the right to refuse a preliminary breath test, although refusal can lead to license revocation. If arrested, it’s crucial to seek immediate legal counsel. At The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz, we ensure clients understand their rights every step of the way and provide strategies to protect those rights during interactions with law enforcement.

How Can a Lawyer Help with My Milwaukee DUI Charge?

Hiring a DUI attorney in Milwaukee can drastically change the trajectory of your case. Lawyers understand the complexities of local DUI laws and have the negotiation skills needed to secure reduced charges or dismissals. They analyze the evidence, scrutinize the legality of the arrest, and challenge any procedural errors. The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz combines years of experience and dedication to defend clients vigorously, focusing on minimizing the impact of DUI charges on your life by exploring every viable legal option available.

What Are the Costs Involved in Handling a DUI Case in Milwaukee?

The costs associated with a DUI case in Milwaukee vary widely depending on circumstances like the case's complexity, mandatory fines, potential loss of employment, and increased insurance rates. Legal fees are also critical to consider, and investing in quality representation can often lead to more favorable outcomes, ultimately saving money in the long term. The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz offers transparent fee structures, ensuring no hidden costs and providing clients with peace of mind, knowing they receive comprehensive representation tailored to their situation.