Hiring a Lawyer for First OWI in Wisconsin: 3 Reasons Why it's Critical

Facing a first OWI in Wisconsin can feel overwhelming. The decisions you make now will impact your driving privileges, your finances, and potentially your freedom. While representing yourself might seem cost-effective, the long-term consequences could be devastating.

The truth? Having an experienced OWI attorney in your corner could mean the difference between a conviction that follows you for years and getting your case reduced or even dismissed.

Read Also: The Consequences of Your First OWI in Wisconsin

How an Experienced Attorney Can Help You with a First Offense OWI

When you're arrested for operating while intoxicated, you're facing both criminal charges and administrative proceedings with the DMV. Here's why having Attorney Patrick Stangl represent you matters:

1. Get a Clear Understanding of What You're Really Facing

Many first-time OWI defendants don't realize the full scope of penalties they're facing:

• Fines ranging from $150 to $300 plus court costs
• 6-9 month license revocation
• Mandatory alcohol assessment
• Potential ignition interlock device installation
• Insurance premium increases averaging 30-80%
• A permanent criminal record visible to employers

An experienced OWI lawyer will explain all potential consequences specific to your situation and develop a defense strategy tailored to your case. Attorney Stangl offers free consultations to help you understand exactly what you're up against.

2. Receive the Personalized Attention Your Case Deserves

Public defenders are often overwhelmed with heavy caseloads, sometimes handling 50-100 cases simultaneously. And remember: a public defender will NOT represent you in your DMV hearing, where your driving privileges are at stake.

When you hire Attorney Stangl:

• You get personalized representation in BOTH criminal court AND DMV proceedings.
• Your case receives priority attention from an attorney with 30+ years of experience.
• You benefit from his established relationships with local prosecutors and judges.
• You have direct access to your attorney throughout the entire process.

3. Potentially Reduce Penalties or Have Your Case Dismissed

Attorney Stangl has helped numerous clients achieve outcomes they didn't think were possible. Several factors can significantly strengthen your defense:

• Procedural errors during field sobriety tests
• Questionable BAC testing methods or results
• Improper police stops or constitutional violations
• Medical conditions that may have affected test results
• Timing issues with blood alcohol measurement

Conversely, these circumstances demand expert representation:

• BAC of 0.15 or higher
• Accident resulting in injuries
• Minor in the vehicle
• Refusal to take chemical tests

In many cases, what initially appears to be a straightforward OWI can be successfully challenged by an attorney who knows what to look for. Attorney Stangl has helped clients preserve their driving privileges, avoid ignition interlock requirements, and in some cases, get charges completely dismissed.

Don't Face This Alone: The Cost of Not Having Expert Representation

Without proper representation, you risk:

• Accepting a plea deal that isn't in your best interest
• Missing critical defense opportunities
• Receiving maximum penalties
• Losing your license when it could have been saved
• Facing higher insurance costs for years to come

Request a FREE Wisconsin OWI Defense Consultation