DUI Lawyer Neenah, WI

Being charged with DUI/OWI in Winnebago County can be a frightening experience. With jail time, fines, license suspension, and your reputation at stake, it’s normal to worry about what comes next.

J. Kippa Law, LLC fights for second chances. We’ve helped people at what is often the lowest point of their lives, and we know how to guide them toward a better outcome. The most important thing you can do right now is to take the next step with a defense team that knows how to fight for you.

If you or a loved one have been charged with OWI in Neenah, WI, our criminal defense attorneys are ready to step in and fight on your behalf. Call us for a free consultation. We’ll explain your rights, your legal options, and the best path forward for you.

Understanding DUI/OWI in Wisconsin

While many states refer to drunk driving as driving under the influence (DUI), Wisconsin calls it “operating while intoxicated” (OWI). These terms are often used interchangeably. However, OWI isn’t limited to driving a vehicle while impaired—“operating” also includes sitting behind the wheel with the engine running.

Under Wis. Stat. § 346.63(1), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while:

Under the influence of an intoxicant (alcohol or controlled substances),
With a prohibited alcohol concentration (PAC), or
While under the influence of any drug, legal or illegal, that impairs your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

A “prohibited alcohol concentration” is:

Basic rule: The legal limit for most drivers is a 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC).
Drivers under 21: If you’re under the legal drinking age, Wisconsin has a zero-tolerance rule. Driving with any BAC over 0.0% is prohibited.
Commercial drivers: The limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%.
Three or more prior OWIs: For drivers with three or more prior OWI convictions, the limit drops to 0.02%.

Note that OWI charges aren’t limited to driving after drinking alcohol. Prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and illegal substances can all result in an OWI charge if they impair your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Understanding the specific charge you face is the first step toward building an effective defense. If you’re not sure what you’ve been charged with or why, a knowledgeable OWI defense attorney at J. Kippa Law, LLC can help.

Why Choose J. Kippa Law, LLC?

Facing an OWI charge doesn’t make you a bad person—it makes you someone who needs strong legal representation. Our team approaches every case without judgment. We know how easy it is for people to find themselves in difficult situations.

Here’s why clients throughout Neenah and Winnebago County turn to us:

Compassionate legal advocates: We listen to your story, and we treat every client with respect and empathy.
Decades of experience: With over 30 years of combined experience, our firm offers seasoned judgment and proven defense strategies.
Local insight: Our familiarity with Winnebago County judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures gives us an edge when preparing a strong defense.
Tailored defense strategies: No two cases or clients are alike. We build a defense that fits your unique circumstances, whether a simple misdemeanor or complex felony case.
Clear communication: You’ll always know what’s happening in your case and what we’re doing to defend you. We keep you informed every step of the way and will provide honest guidance on the best path forward.
A focus on long-term outcomes: For us, success isn’t just about winning cases—it’s about helping you move forward and thrive in the long term.

Having a trustworthy legal team by your side can make all the difference in your OWI case. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

Potential Penalties for OWI Convictions in Neenah, WI

The penalties for an OWI conviction in Wisconsin escalate with each subsequent offense. Even a first offense can impact your freedom, finances, and future. The specific penalties depend on factors like your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), whether anyone was injured, and whether you have prior convictions.

Here’s a breakdown of what you could be facing:

First Offense

First-time offenders face up to $300 in fines and license revocation ranging from six to nine months. Jail time is usually not imposed unless there were aggravating factors involved. You will be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) if your BAC was 0.15% or higher.

Second Offense

Second offenses within the last 10 years include up to $1,100 in fines and five days to six months in jail. Your license will be revoked for 12 to 18 months, and you must install an IID for a minimum of one year after license reinstatement.

If your first offense was more than 10 years ago, you’ll face the same penalties as a first-time offender.

Third Offenses

Your third OWI will be punished by fines of up to $2,000 and 45 days to one year in jail. Your license will be revoked for up to three years, and you’ll need to install an IID for up to three years.

Subsequent Offenses

Fourth and subsequent offenses are felonies and have significantly higher consequences. Depending on which offense it is, you could face up to 15 years in jail and $50,000 in fines, among other punishments.

Aggravating Factors

Aggravating factors can increase your punishment, even if it’s your first offense. These factors include having a minor under 16 in the vehicle, causing injury or death, BAC over .15%, and driving on a revoked or suspended license.

Collateral Consequences

Anyone convicted of a crime may experience collateral consequences. For example, you could lose your professional licenses and fail background checks. This can lead to difficulty finding employment and housing. Your insurance premiums are likely to increase if you’re not dropped. Finally, convictions can affect your ability to travel internationally, your immigration status, and your reputation.

Fortunately, an arrest is not a conviction—and the skilled OWI defense attorneys at J. Kippa Law, LLC can fight for a better outcome.

What Happens After an OWI/DUI Arrest in Winnebago County

Here’s what typically happens after an OWI arrest in Neenah and elsewhere in Winnebago County:

Chemical test: After your arrest, law enforcement will usually request a breath, blood, or urine test to determine your BAC or the presence of drugs. Refusing this test can result in automatic license revocation and additional penalties under Wisconsin’s implied consent law.
Administrative suspension: If your BAC is over the limit, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will issue an administrative suspension of your driver’s license. You have 10 days from the notice of intent to request a hearing to challenge this suspension.
Criminal charges: You’ll likely be released pending formal criminal charges. The court will schedule an initial appearance where the judge explains your rights and the charges against you.
Court proceedings: OWI cases typically involve several court appearances, from the initial appearance through a potential trial. A knowledgeable defense attorney from J. Kippa Law, LLC can help you explore your legal options and fight for the best outcome possible.
License and IID installation: The WisDOT may impose a license revocation and require installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)—especially for BACs of 0.15%+ or repeat offenses.

Early legal intervention is the best way to protect your rights, recover your driving privileges, and build a strong defense. The sooner you act, the more options you may have.

Consult a Winnebago County OWI Lawyer Today

If you’ve been charged with an OWI in Neenah or Winnebago County, there’s no time to waste. Call J. Kippa Law, LLC, for a free consultation with our compassionate DUI defense attorneys.

J. Kippa Law, LLC

At J. Kippa Law, LLC, you want representation as early as possible. You will work directly with criminal defense attorney Jeffrey Kippa and his team throughout your case. Call 920-733-1100 or contact the law firm online to discuss your situation.