Protecting Driving Privileges During an OWI Investigation in Wisconsin

The single biggest concern of Wisconsin drivers who are facing an OWI investigation is whether or not they will lose their driving privileges. Losing your driver’s license is definite  if you’ve been convicted   of driving while intoxicated in the state, but there are ways to protect your driving privileges while your case is being investigated.

The Wisconsin Point System

Driving is considered a privilege, not a right. Unsafe driving practices can lead to that privilege being revoked and your driver’s license suspended. Wisconsin uses a point system to track and gauge a driver’s habits and determine whether or not a suspension is required. Under the point system, each driving infraction is assigned a point value. These points are assigned to your driver’s license and driving record. The more points you have, the more likely you are to face driving restrictions or even a loss of your driving privileges.

Protecting Your Driving Privileges

If you  are arrested, you will be issued a 30-day temporary license. After the 30 days have passed your license will be suspended. When you are given the temporary license you will also receive a “Notice of Intent to Suspend” or “Notice of Intent to Revoke”.

This notice is important for two reasons. It tells you the date on which your license will be suspended and also gives you an opportunity to request an Administrative Review Hearing. Requesting an Administrative Review Hearing is the only way to avoid losing your license before going to court. After your 30-day temporary license ends, your driving privileges will be suspended while you await your day in DUI court.. By requesting an Administrative Review Hearing, you have a chance to keep your license active while awaiting your court date. Even if your license is suspended, most people are eligible for an occupational license immediately. 

The tricky part is making the request in time. You have only 10 days from the time your Notice of Intent was issued to request the hearing. If you do not make the request during this time, your driver’s license will be automatically suspended after your 30-day temporary license expires.

Fight to Keep Your Driver’s License With Help From Our Wisconsin OWI Attorneys

As soon as you are taken into custody, contact an OWI defense attorney at Eisenberg Law Offices. There is a very short window of time in which to request an administrative hearing and try to save your license. Our OWI attorneys can help you beat the deadlines, avoid penalties, and retain your driving privileges. Once your license is secure, we will work with you to build a strong defense.

Just as there are many ways to lose your driver’s license in Wisconsin, there are also many ways to protect it. Trust the experience of our OWI attorneys to protect your rights and your driving privileges. if you rely on being able to drive for your livelihood, it is even more important that you receive help in protecting your license.

Contact Eisenberg Law Offices at 608-256-8356 or info@eisenberglaw.org to request a free consultation. Be sure to tell us you would like to request an Administrative Review Hearing so we do not lose valuable time.