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DUI First Offense

DUI First Offense

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A DUI, especially the first offense, can be confusing, overwhelming, and frightening. For many this is their first experience with the court system. Hiring an experienced law firm, such as ours, can help eliminate the confusion, and reduce the fear. With more than 24 years of experience and current knowledge of the ever changing legal system we can customize a defense to your specific case to provide you with the best results possible.

Contact us for a free consultation so we can discuss the specifics of your case.

You Are Not Automatically Guilty

Just because you have been arrested for a DUI or PAC offense does not automatically mean that you are guilty. Every alcohol related stop is unique and is different from all others. Just because a friend did not get convicted of a DUI or PAC offense it doesn’t mean you won’t be convicted. Every DUI and PAC case is different. It is important to get a DUI lawyer’s help to make sure that if you cannot beat the DUI or PAC charge completely, you are able to manage the fallout of any penalties or sanctions that might be coming from the Courts or the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Is A DUI A Felony?

One question is asked a lot. “Is a DUI a felony?” A DUI or PAC first offense under present Wisconsin Statutes is not a felony. It is a civil, not a criminal offense. This means it is not possible for you to go to jail if you are found guilty of your first DUI, assuming there are no enhanced penalty provisions to the charge.

Penalties

Penalties that can be imposed for a first offense DUI include:

  • Fines and court costs
  • suspension or revocation of driving privileges
  • installation of ignition interlock devices
  • alcohol and drug assessments

Failure to comply with imposed penalties on this type offense may lead to penalties that become more severe.

Additional Penalties

Other types of penalties that can come along with a DUI or PAC first offense conviction can include:

  • increased insurance premiums
  • potentially the loss of income or employment
  • restriction from entering Canada for any purpose
  • loss of right to poses or own firearms

There are also the more intangible penalties such as loss of self-worth, lowered self-respect, or the loss of respect from employers and others.