In the state of Wisconsin, underage drivers need only a 0.01% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in order to be charged with operating while intoxicated (OWI). An OWI charge is an extremely serious offense and can cause lasting damage to a person’s future. If your minor child has been charged with OWI, it is urgent you contact a trial-tested Milwaukee OWI attorney from the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella as soon as possible to protect their future.
With more than 20 years of dedicated criminal defense experience, our firm has defended thousands of clients against a variety of criminal charges and can maximize your chances of securing a desirable outcome for your child’s situation. With aggressive advocacy and compassionate communication available 24/7, we can provide the unmatched support you need to help you get through this difficult time as smoothly as possible.
We offer free case evaluations to all who approach us for help. Request yours today!
What are the Penalties for Underage OWI in Wisconsin?
According to the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, underage drunk drivers account for 12% of DUI fatalities in the state of Wisconsin. As a result of this high proportion, Wisconsin is a zero-tolerance state and can arrest a minor for OWI if they register a BAC of anything higher than 0.00%. An OWI charge can also result from driving while impaired by illicit or prescription drugs. While a first-time OWI in Wisconsin is not a criminal offense, an OWI citation can have serious long-term consequences and greatly impact a person’s employment and housing prospects.
A first-time underage OWI charge can bring the following immediate consequences:
- Driver’s license suspension up to 9 months
- Fines up to $300
- Mandatory alcohol treatment
- Dramatically raised insurance rates
These penalties can increase dramatically depending on a minor’s prior offenses and whether or not anyone was injured. If charged and tried as an adult for a second OWI offense, a minor may face up to a year in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and an 18 month driver’s license suspension. Since an underage OWI charge is often paired with a number of other charges such as minor in possession of alcohol, distributing alcohol to other minors, and possession of false identification, these scenarios can snowball in a heartbeat.
Contact Our Milwaukee Underage OWI Attorney Today
At the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella, our Milwaukee underage OWI lawyers understand that young people can find themselves in difficult situations and are prepared to do everything within our power to protect your child’s wellbeing. As a former prosecutor, our founding attorney Christopher J. Cherella knows how the opposition works and can use his invaluable knowledge to your child’s advantage. Your child’s future is far too precious to leave up to chance – make sure it is in the right hands!
Contact us online today to review your legal options with a skilled professional from our firm.
