New Wisconsin OWI Law Affects People With Multiple Convictions

 Posted on May 11, 2018 in DUI/OWI

In March 2018, a new Wisconsin OWI law was passed by Governor Scott Walker. The purpose of this law is to permanently revoke the driver’s licenses of individuals who have been convicted of four or more offenses related to drunk driving. The state of Wisconsin believes that anyone can make a mistake, but making the same mistake four times is inexcusable, and it is time to get repeat drunk drivers off the roads.

The new law states that if someone is convicted of four or more DUI-related offenses or had a second OWI in combination with two other OWI-related offenses (such as second-degree homicide involving a vehicle or injury by intoxicated use of a vehicle), their driver’s license will be permanently revoked by the Department of Transportation.

It is important to note that the fourth offense must arise within 15 years of the previous conviction. In the event someone has lost their license and is caught driving, they will be forced to pay a fine of $2,500 and may spend up to one year in prison. Second offenses may lead to a $10,000 fine and/or a year in prison.

What Is a Drunk-Driving Related Offense?

Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), homicide which occurred due to OWI or negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and any other felony outlined in the Wisconsin motor vehicle code are considered drunk-driving related offenses.

How are Previous Convictions Affected?

Although this new law does not apply retroactively, someone who has previously been convicted of three OWI-related offenses can expect their driver’s license to be revoked following another conviction.

Previous Consequences for Fourth OWIs

Before this law was enacted, anyone convicted of an OWI for the fourth time would face a driver’s license revocation of up to three years. In addition, they would be penalized with:

• Up to $10,000 in fines
• Up to six years in prison
• The installation of an ignition interlock device in their vehicle
• An alcohol assessment
• A permanent criminal record

Since Wisconsin considers fourth offenses to be felonies, if you are convicted of an OWI for the fourth time, you will lose your right to vote and may never be able to own or possess a firearm for the remainder of your life.

Contact Our Delafield DUI Attorneys Today

If you are wondering how this new law affects your particular situation, it is in your best interest to contact our experienced Waukesha County DUI defense lawyers right away. Call our office at 262-303-4916 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/four-time-drunk-drivers-lose-license-under-new-law