OWI Defense Attorneys in Wisconsin Rapids
Individuals facing drinking and driving offenses are facing harsher penalties in communities across the country as governments crack down on drunk driving. At the law office of Schmidt, Grace & Duncan, our criminal defense lawyers are dedicated to aggressively protecting our clients' rights throughout the entirety of their cases.
The laws in Wisconsin and throughout the U.S. do not specifically ban individuals from driving drunk. However, they do speak to the fact that driving under the influence is illegal. The terms that are frequently used are OWI and DUI, referring to operating under the influence of (or operating while impaired by) an intoxicant or other drug.
It is important to know that it police officer does not have to actually observe an individual in the act of driving in order to stop them for an OWI or DUI. It is enough that a person has either turned on the ignition or has left the motor running while the vehicle is in the park position. The statutory definition of operation of a vehicle is "the physical manipulation or activation of any of the controls of a motor vehicle necessary to put it in motion." The fact that a vehicle may be immobile due to engine problems or being stuck does not prevent an officer from arresting the driver on suspicion of OWI.
A lawyer at our firm can review your situation and determine how best to handle your OWI case. We examine all aspects of the case, including any violations of police procedure or your civil rights. The punishments for an OWI conviction can be very serious and impact your entire life. Ensure that your rights are protected by enlisting our legal team at Schmidt, Grace & Duncan in Wisconsin Rapids.
Contact an experienced OWI defense attorney at Schmidt, Grace & Duncan today. A member of our firm can meet with you during a free initial consultation to discuss your rights and options for pursuing a resolution to your situation. We always put our clients' needs first.
Schmidt, Grace & Duncan
Attorneys at Law
250 East Grand Avenue
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
Telephone: (715) 423-4100 | Facsimile: (715) 423-4102
