Ozaukee County DUI Lawyer

Legal Representation to Navigate Complex OWI Proceedings

In Wisconsin, a DUI is legally called operating a motor vehicle under the influence of an intoxicant or other drug (or OWI). Whether it's driving after consuming alcohol or a controlled substance or driving with an unlawful blood alcohol concentration, the consequences of a DUI conviction can be severe. Incarceration, driver’s license suspension, and substantial fines are just a few penalties imposed that can significantly impact a person’s life.

Seeking legal representation is crucial when facing DUI charges. These offenses involve multiple components, including a chemical aspect, where the defendant's blood or breath is analyzed to determine intoxication, and an administrative aspect, where hearings are held to assess the legality of the arresting officer's actions. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make a difference in navigating these complex legal proceedings.

I, Attorney Jason D. Baltz, offer hope to my clients by carefully evaluating their cases, listening to their perspectives, and devising practical courses of action. Through meticulous examination of details and uncovering pertinent facts, I craft tailored defenses to pursue favorable outcomes for my clients.

If you're facing DUI charges in Ozaukee County, don't face them alone. Contact The Law Offices of Jason D. Baltz today at (414) 375-0797.

Examining Wisconsin’s DUI Laws

Operating while under the influence is a severe offense in Wisconsin, and understanding the laws surrounding it is crucial for all drivers. DUI stops can happen on any public road, and in Ozaukee County, that includes major highways, such as Interstate 43, Highway 32, and Highway 57. Law enforcement officers are trained to gather evidence suggesting a violation of Wisconsin's DUI laws, making it essential to grasp the regulations governing such incidents.

Wisconsin Statute Section 346.63 outlines the circumstances under which operating a motor vehicle is prohibited, including:

• Driving under the influence of an intoxicant or controlled substance
• Having a prohibited blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
• Having a detectable amount of a restricted controlled substance in the driver’s blood

Blood Alcohol Concentration Limits

BAC limits play a significant role in determining DUI offenses. The general legal limit is 0.08, but variations exist for specific groups. Repeat offenders face a lower threshold of 0.02 BAC, while commercial motor vehicle drivers have a limit of 0.04. Additionally, underage drinkers can be charged with a BAC of more than 0.0 but not exceeding 0.08.

DUI Conviction Penalties

The penalties for DUI convictions in Wisconsin vary based on several factors, primarily the number of prior violations the defendant has.

First-time violators may be penalized by:

• $150 to $350 fine
• Six to nine months of driver’s license revocation

Second-time violators may face the following penalties (if the offense happened within 10 years of the prior):

• $350 to $1,100 fine
• Five to six months confinement
• One year to 18 months of driver’s license revocation

The Importance of a DUI Defense Attorney

The legal process for DUI cases typically involves several stages, including the initial appearance, status hearing, arraignment, pretrial actions, and a trial (if necessary). Each step requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the law, making it essential to have a knowledgeable advocate who can guide you through each phase.

An experienced DUI defense attorney is crucial in developing a solid strategy tailored to the specifics of your case. This strategy begins with a comprehensive review of available evidence, including police reports, chemical analysis results, and other pertinent information. By examining the details, your attorney can determine whether proper legal procedures were followed during your arrest and identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

With this information, your attorney can craft a robust defense to challenge the charges against you. Whether it's disputing the accuracy of chemical test results, questioning the legality of the traffic stop, or presenting mitigating factors to the court, a lawyer can fight tirelessly to protect your rights.

Putting Your Future in Capable Hands

When clients choose me to represent them in DUI cases, they can trust that they are in capable hands. I take the time to understand the case's unique circumstances, thoroughly review the evidence, and explore available legal avenues to craft a tailored defense strategy. My goal is to safeguard my clients’ long-term interests and futures.

Contact my firm at (414) 375-0797 to discuss your case with an Ozaukee County DUI defense attorney.