Penalties for Second Offense OWI in Wisconsin

It should come as no surprise that the penalties associated with a second offense OWI in Wisconsin are more severe than those for a first offense OWI. One of the reasons for this is because first offenses are considered civil offenses/violations while second offenses are a criminal offense/violation without exception. This naturally leads to more severe repercussions.

Criminal charges for a second OWI include jail time, monetary fines and loss of driver’s license for up to 18 months, but specifics depend on the circumstances of the situation.

Possible Penalties For Second Offense OWI

An OWI is considered a second offense in Wisconsin if the driver has received a prior OWI conviction in the last ten years. Although the state has set minimum and maximum penalties for the offense, the judge in the case will determine the actual sentence handed down, but it will be within the minimum and maximum ranges. This may include:

• Jail time ranges from five days to six months. The range is doubled if there was a passenger under 16 years of age in the vehicle at the time of the offense.

• Fines range from $350 to $1,100 for second OWI convictions. This minimum and maximum doubles with a BAC of .17% to .199%. It triples for a BAC of .20% to .249% and quadruples for a BAC of .25% or higher.

• An Alcohol and Drug Assessment is mandatory for all OWI convictions in Wisconsin. An assessment will be made and drivers may be required to complete additional treatment, OWI classes or other rehab programs based on the results of that assessment.

• Up to 18 months driver’s license revocation is possible.   

• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) will be ordered for at least one year upon reinstatement of the driver’s license or occupational license.

• Other consequences include the cost of alcohol and drug assessment programs, mandatory high-risk auto insurance rates, potentially higher life and health insurance rates, time off work, impound fees, and more.

Protect Your Future With Help From Eisenberg Law Offices’ OWI Attorneys

The costs associated with a second OWI in WI can easily reach into thousands of dollars and the impact on your life can be ruinous. This is why it is so important to have an experienced OWI defense attorney representing you if you are charged with an OWI. The Eisenberg Law Offices‘ OWI attorneys can help by arguing for a reduced sentence or may even be able to help you avoid conviction entirely. If you are facing OWI charges in Wisconsin, whether it is your first or second OWI or more, contact our team at 608-256-8356 or by emailing Info@eisenberglaw.org to arrange a free consultation. Your future is too precious to leave to chance.