Operating While Intoxicated, or OWI, is illegal in Wisconsin. Many drivers wonder if an OWI on their record will impact their insurance rates and the answer is Yes. An OWI conviction almost always results in an increase in auto insurance premiums. An OWI conviction will carry other penalties as well, notably the SR22.

Anyone who watches legal shows on television has heard the term plea bargain. These “deals” are used widely in fictional entertainment settings, but they are real, legal strategies that are used throughout Wisconsin to close cases. Below, we answer nine common questions about plea deals.

If you are charged with OWI in Wisconsin, you will be required to undergo chemical testing to check your BAC level through a blood test, a breathalyzer breath test, or a urinalysis. When we say required, we mean required. Chemical testing for intoxication is required for an OWI arrest in the state and you must comply with it.

A second offense OWI is a serious crime with significantly more severe penalties than first offense OWIs. A first offense is considered a civil offense, but a second OWI is a criminal offense in the state of Wisconsin, no matter what the circumstances.

Summer is that time of year when people are more carefree, socializing out in public, and eager to kick back with a drink or two. It is also the time of year we see an increase in lewd conduct charges in Wisconsin. Lewd and lascivious behavior is considered obscene behavior, is not protected by the Constitution, and is a crime in this state.

Probation is a sentencing option that allows defendants to fulfill their sentence outside of prison or jail. Wisconsin probation rules require community-based supervision. Specific requirements for probation are set by the judge in the case. Judges impose several conditions or requirements when they allow offenders to receive probation in lieu of imprisonment. These conditions are set to ensure the offender does not pose a threat to the community or commit another offense. Offenders must follow all of their probation rules in order to fulfill their sentencing requirements.

Interactions with Wisconsin law enforcement are full of opportunities for miscommunication and misunderstanding. Emotions and anxiety run high and can cause both offenders and law enforcement officers to escalate the situation. It is so important to remain levelheaded and to understand your constitutional rights when you are asked to talk to police after an arrest in Wisconsin. This includes knowing what to say and what not to say. It is up to you to advocate for yourself in the immediate aftermath of an arrest. If you do not speak up for yourself and your rights, the police may ignore them.

Being charged with an OWI in Wisconsin can be an alarming and confusing experience. You will no doubt have questions and wonder how a conviction will affect you and your ability to drive. You might even buy into some of the more common myths about OWIs in Wisconsin. The OWI attorneys at Eisenberg Law Offices are here to dispel 3 of these myths so you are better prepared to deal with an OWI charge.

Given how often they show up in television shows, almost everyone has heard of a plea bargain or plea deal. As we all know, however, the reality is a bit different from TV. First things first, plea deals are a real legal concept and they are used by Wisconsin prosecutors. They can be very helpful in minimizing the consequences of a crime, but automatically accepting an offer may not always be your best choice. Here's what you need to know about plea bargains in Wisconsin.

Most drivers associate OWIs with driving under the influence of alcohol, but in Wisconsin, you can also receive an OWI for driving under the influence of marijuana.