Milwaukee Felony DUI Attorney

Aggressively Defending Felony DUI Charges in Wisconsin

Facing a felony DUI charge can be daunting, especially given the serious consequences that can follow a conviction. At Melowski & Singh, LLC, we understand how a felony DUI can impact your life, and we are committed to defending clients in Milwaukee with precision and dedication. Our team is not only versed in the complexities of DUI law but also distinguished by our innovative defense strategies and a proven track record of success.

When dealing with felony DUI cases, timing is crucial. Prompt legal action can sometimes mean the difference between a reduced charge and severe sentencing. Our attorneys prioritize your case from the moment you contact us. We understand that each case comes with unique challenges, and we approach each one with the analytical rigor it deserves, delivering customized legal strategies tailored to Milwaukee's legal landscape.

Facing a felony DUI charge in Wisconsin? Call Melowski & Singh, LLC at (920) 294-1414 or contact us online today to schedule a meeting with our Milwaukee felony DUI lawyer!

When Does an OWI/DUI Become a Felony in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, while many OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) offenses are charged as misdemeanors, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI to a serious felony charge. When an OWI is classified as a felony in Milwaukee, the potential penalties become significantly harsher, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term impacts on your freedom and future.

Here are the key situations in which an OWI offense can be classified as a felony in Wisconsin:

• Fifth OWI Offense or Higher: A fifth OWI conviction in Wisconsin, or any subsequent OWI, is automatically charged as a felony, regardless of the time elapsed between offenses. Conviction for a felony OWI means you will permanently lose your right to possess a firearm.
• Fourth OWI Offense within Five Years: If a fourth OWI offense occurs within five years of the third, this DUI charge is typically classified as a Class H felony in Wisconsin.
• OWI Causing Great Bodily Harm: If an OWI results in great bodily harm to another person, this DUI incident can be charged as a felony, carrying severe consequences regardless of prior impaired driving history.
• Homicide by Intoxicated Use of a Vehicle: If an OWI accident leads to the death of another person, it is charged as a felony offense, such as vehicular homicide or negligent homicide – the most serious DUI-related charges.
• Prior Felony OWI Convictions: If an individual has previously been convicted of a felony OWI, any subsequent DUI offense can be charged as a felony, demonstrating a pattern of serious impaired driving.

It's crucial to understand that Wisconsin's OWI/DUI laws and their corresponding penalties are complex, and the specific circumstances of each case can significantly affect the classification and severity of the charges. Consulting with an experienced Milwaukee OWI/DUI attorney is essential to fully understand the potential felony charges you face and the corresponding legal consequences.

Felony DUI Penalties in Wisconsin

A felony OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) conviction in Wisconsin carries profound and long-lasting consequences, significantly impacting your freedom, finances, and future. The exact penalties for a felony DUI can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of your case, the number of prior convictions, the severity of the incident, and other aggravating factors. It's crucial to understand the gravity of what you might be facing in Milwaukee.

Here are the general penalties associated with a felony OWI/DUI conviction in Wisconsin:

• Incarceration: Felony OWI convictions almost always involve mandatory incarceration. The length of imprisonment can vary substantially based on the specific felony classification (e.g., Class H, G, F felony), the number of previous impaired driving offenses, and whether injuries or fatalities were involved.
• Substantial Fines: Individuals convicted of a felony DUI can face significant financial penalties, ranging from several hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars, adding to the financial burden.
• Driver's License Revocation: A felony OWI conviction inevitably leads to a lengthy or permanent revocation of the offender's driver's license. The duration of this revocation is determined by the specific felony charge and your prior OWI history.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): In most felony DUI cases, the court will mandate the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device in any vehicle you operate. This device requires a clean breath sample before the vehicle will start and periodically while driving.
• Probation and Strict Conditions: Felony OWI convictions frequently include a demanding period of probation. During this time, the offender must adhere to stringent court-ordered conditions, which may involve regular check-ins with a probation officer, maintaining complete sobriety, attending mandatory counseling or treatment programs, submitting to routine drug or alcohol testing, and refraining from any new criminal activity.
• Mandatory Alcohol or Drug Treatment: As part of the sentencing for a felony DUI, individuals are typically required to undergo comprehensive alcohol or drug treatment programs. This can include intensive counseling sessions, participation in rehabilitation programs, or regular attendance at support groups.
• Vehicle Impoundment or Forfeiture: In certain felony OWI scenarios, particularly those involving multiple offenses or severe outcomes, the offender's vehicle may be subject to impoundment or even forfeiture (meaning the vehicle is permanently seized and sold or destroyed).
• Permanent Criminal Record: A felony OWI/DUI conviction results in a permanent felony criminal record. This has pervasive long-term consequences, severely impacting future employment opportunities, professional licenses, housing applications, educational prospects, and other vital aspects of life.

The penalties for a felony OWI/DUI in Wisconsin are highly dependent on the specific details of your case, your prior convictions, and various other factors. Consulting with an experienced Milwaukee OWI/DUI attorney is not just advisable—it is crucial to fully understand the potential penalties you face and to develop a strong, strategic defense.

Common Mistakes People Make When Charged with a DUI

Navigating a DUI charge can be fraught with anxiety and uncertainty, particularly when faced with the complexity of legal procedures and potentially severe consequences. Many individuals make critical errors early on in their case that can significantly impact the outcome. 

Here are some of the most common mistakes people make when charged with a DUI in the Milwaukee area:

• Failing to Take the Charges Seriously: Some individuals underestimate the severity of a DUI charge and do not act promptly. This can lead to missed court dates, mishandling of legal paperwork, and worsening of their legal situation.
• Not Hiring an Experienced DUI Attorney: Attempting to navigate the complex DUI laws and court system without professional legal help is a significant misstep. An experienced DUI attorney is crucial for mounting a robust defense.
• Talking to the Police Without Legal Counsel: Anything you say to law enforcement can be used against you in court. It’s essential to exercise your right to remain silent until you have secured legal representation.
• Ignoring License Suspension Notices: Failure to address driver’s license suspension can lead to additional penalties, including longer suspension periods or even permanent revocation.
• Missing Deadlines for Administrative Hearings: Administrative hearings, such as those regarding license suspension, have strict deadlines. Missing these deadlines can result in automatic penalties.
• Believing Public Misconceptions About DUI: Many rely on advice from friends or the internet, which can be inaccurate. Professional legal advice is critical in understanding your rights and options.
• Driving on a Suspended License: Continuing to drive after your license has been suspended or revoked due to a DUI can lead to further legal complications, including additional charges.
• Failing to Comply with Court Orders: Ignoring court-ordered actions like attending DUI education programs, community service, or probation terms can result in additional penalties, including jail time.
• Not Preparing for Court Appearances: Showing up unprepared for court appearances can harm your case. It’s important to understand court procedures and prepare any necessary documentation.
• Failing to Seek Alcohol or Drug Treatment: Ignoring underlying issues related to alcohol or drug use can not only harm the legal case but also worsen personal well-being and future prospects.

How a DUI Lawyer Can Help Avoid These Mistakes

A DUI lawyer can help individuals avoid these common mistakes and achieve the best possible outcome in their cases. First and foremost, an experienced DUI attorney will take the case seriously and provide the necessary legal guidance from the onset. They will handle all communications with law enforcement and the court, protecting the client's rights and ensuring no self-incriminating statements are made.

Moreover, a DUI lawyer is well-versed in the deadlines and procedural requirements of the legal system, ensuring that no critical dates are missed and that all paperwork is properly filed. They will also work diligently to contest the DUI charges and negotiate with prosecutors for lesser penalties or alternative sentencing options.

By comprehensively preparing for court appearances and advising on compliance with court orders, a DUI lawyer helps mitigate the severity of the consequences their clients face. Additionally, they can recommend and facilitate access to alcohol or drug treatment programs, addressing any underlying issues that may be contributing to their client's legal troubles.

Why Choose Melowski & Singh, LLC? Your Trusted Milwaukee DUI Defense Team

At Melowski & Singh, LLC, our definition of success in a felony OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) case extends far beyond simply managing legal procedures or accumulating accolades. Clients in Milwaukee consistently choose us for our unwavering dedication to achieving positive outcomes and our commitment to transparency.

Our law firm stands out for our relentless pursuit of justice, underscored by a proven track record of successful DUI defenses and courtroom victories. Dennis Melowski's consistent recognition as a 10-time Super Lawyer by Law & Politics and Milwaukee Magazine speaks volumes about his expertise and our firm's commitment to upholding your rights and securing your future. We back up our claims with concrete evidence of our successes, ensuring you have confidence in our capabilities.

Unlike other attorneys who might offer generic promises or guide clients toward standard plea bargains, we stand firm in our commitment to providing a steadfast OWI defense practice that rigorously prioritizes your best interests. We approach each case with an analytical rigor that sets us apart, delivering customized legal strategies tailored specifically to Milwaukee's legal landscape. Our personalized approach ensures that we address your individual concerns with care and attentiveness, keeping you informed at every step to facilitate educated decisions about your future. In a field where trust and integrity are paramount, our reputation reflects our dedication to achieving desirable results and nurturing strong attorney-client relationships.

Contact Melowski & Singh, LLC immediately for a confidential and strategic consultation. Let our proven Milwaukee felony DUI lawyers begin building the robust defense you deserve. Call us now at (920) 294-1414 or fill out our online contact form to take the decisive first step toward protecting your future.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can an Attorney Help with My Felony DUI Charge?

A qualified attorney at Melowski & Singh, LLC can help by evaluating the details of your case, identifying procedural errors, and negotiating on your behalf to reduce or dismiss charges. We bring a meticulous approach to every case and have a record of achieving favorable outcomes. Our lawyers are prepared to fight vigorously for your rights in court if needed.

An attorney’s role extends beyond court representation. Effective legal support also involves educating clients about their rights and potential case outcomes. At Melowski & Singh, LLC, we offer guidance on facing inquiries and maintaining conduct that doesn't inadvertently harm your case. This full-spectrum approach ensures that you're always steps ahead in protecting your future.

Can I Avoid Jail Time with a Felony DUI Charge?

While avoiding jail time entirely can be challenging with a felony DUI charge, our team focuses on minimizing penalties while exploring alternatives such as rehabilitation programs. Each case is unique, and our individualized approach ensures we pursue every viable option for reducing your sentence.

Our strategy includes preparing a strong case for sentence mitigation by highlighting factors such as personal hardships, potential for rehabilitation, and steps toward rectification undertaken by the client. Through legal expertise and a compassionate approach, we work to convince the court of your commitment to change and that incarceration is not the only solution.

Is It Possible to Expunge a Felony DUI from My Record?

Expungement of a felony DUI in Wisconsin is rare and depends on several factors, including the specifics of the case and post-conviction behaviors. With our legal expertise, we can help you understand your options and what steps you can take toward potential expungement down the line.

Expungement is highly case-specific, often considered after a significant amount of time has passed without further legal infractions. Our team assists clients in positioning themselves for the highest likelihood of expungement eligibility, advising on legal compliance, community service, and other restorative actions that demonstrate rehabilitation and good character.

Take Control of Your Future: Contact Us Today

Facing a felony DUI charge can lead to stress and uncertainty, but you don't have to navigate these challenges alone. At Melowski & Singh, LLC, we offer a supportive and proactive approach to DUI defense in Milwaukee. By contacting us, you're taking the first step toward protecting your rights and future. Call us at (920) 294-1414 for a consultation and let our seasoned defense team help guide you through this difficult time, aiming for the most favorable outcome possible.