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Criminal Defense Guide

First-Offense OWI in Wisconsin

A first OWI in Wisconsin can involve the traffic case, driver-license consequences and evidence collected during the stop.

A first OWI in Wisconsin can involve the traffic case, driver-license consequences and evidence collected during the stop.

Important: Criminal procedure and deadlines can be highly fact-specific. This page provides general information and is not legal advice.

Review the reason for the stop

The defense may examine why the officer stopped the vehicle and whether the observed facts supported the police action that followed.

Field sobriety and body-camera evidence

Reports do not always capture everything visible on video. Road conditions, footwear, instructions, medical issues, balance and how tests were administered can matter.

Chemical testing

Breath, blood or other chemical-test evidence raises questions about timing, procedure, admissibility and the surrounding facts. A refusal creates a separate process.

Administrative deadlines

Some license-related notices have short administrative deadlines. Read every document from the stop rather than waiting for the first court date.

Build the case from the evidence

The best defense strategy depends on the stop, observations, testing, statements, video and laboratory evidence rather than on a one-size-fits-all approach.

Facing a criminal charge or appeal?

Speak directly with Madison criminal defense attorney Robert T. Ruth.

Call (608) 257-2540
Call (608) 257-2540