Being charged with a DUI in Wisconsin is serious, but not all DUIs are treated equally. A felony DUI carries higher stakes, stricter penalties, and long-term consequences that can affect your career and personal life. Understanding the differences between a felony DUI and a standard DUI can help you make informed decisions about your defense.
Key Differences Between Felony and Standard DUI
Previous Offenses Matter
Felony DUIs are typically charged when a driver has multiple prior DUI convictions within a set period, or if aggravating factors are present (such as injury or property damage). Standard DUIs usually involve first or second offenses without severe consequences.
Penalties
- Jail or prison time is significantly longer for felony DUIs.
- Fines and court costs increase with the severity of the charge.
- Felony DUIs often require ignition interlock devices for extended periods.
- Probation terms are more restrictive and closely monitored.
Legal Process
Felony DUI cases involve more complex court procedures. These can include preliminary hearings, grand jury reviews, and extended trials, making legal guidance essential.
Impacts on Life and Career
Professional Consequences
A felony DUI conviction can place professional licenses and career paths at serious risk, particularly for individuals in regulated fields such as aviation, medicine, law, and other licensed professions. Many licensing boards require disclosure of felony convictions and may initiate disciplinary proceedings that can result in suspension, restrictions, or even license revocation. For professionals whose careers depend on maintaining strict standards of conduct and public trust, a felony DUI can create challenges that extend far beyond the courtroom.
Insurance and Employment
Insurance providers may raise premiums substantially or limit coverage altogether, especially for drivers with a felony record. At the same time, employers—particularly those in competitive or safety-sensitive industries—may be hesitant to hire applicants with a felony DUI on their record, even when the offense is unrelated to job performance. These barriers can make it more difficult to move forward professionally after a conviction.
Personal Implications
Beyond professional and financial consequences, a felony DUI can significantly affect a person’s personal life. The stress of navigating the legal system, combined with potential restrictions on driving or travel, can disrupt daily routines and family responsibilities. Relationships may be strained, and the loss of personal freedom associated with court requirements, probation, or incarceration can take an emotional toll that extends well beyond the resolution of the case.
Why Experienced Legal Representation Matters
A strategic defense can significantly influence the outcome of a felony DUI case. Experienced attorneys like those at Melowski & Singh, LLC focus on:
- Challenging improper procedures during arrests or testing
- Questioning the accuracy of breath, blood, or sobriety tests
- Investigating mitigating circumstances that could reduce charges
Our team has a proven track record of obtaining dismissals, charge reductions, and acquittals, even in high-stakes felony DUI cases.
Protect Your Rights
Facing a felony DUI requires prompt and experienced legal guidance. Melowski & Singh, LLC’s Sheboygan attorneys are ready to protect your rights and provide strategic support throughout every step of the legal process.
Reach out to Melowski & Singh, LLC via our online contact form or call (920) 294-1414 to discuss your case. Taking immediate action can make a significant difference.