Defending You Against Drunk Driving Charges
Driving while intoxicated (DWI, also known as DUI and OWI) is a serious criminal charge that can result in not only fines and jail time but also suspension or revocation of your driver's license. Depending on the circumstances, a DWI can result in gross misdemeanor charges and/or felony charges. Villaume & Schiek P.A. also represents clients who have refused to take the test (also known as "refusal to take the test").
At Villaume & Schiek, P.A., in Bloomington, we maintain a cutting-edge knowledge of the latest developments in DWI law and prosecution, and attorney Jeffrey D. Schiek has authored several published articles on the subject. Contact us to schedule a free initial consultation about your Minnesota or Wisconsin DWI charges.
Relying on Extensive Legal Knowledge
If the police can prove that your blood alcohol (BAC) was .08 or more, within two hours of the driving conduct, you can be convicted of DWI. If your BAC was above .20, you had a child under the age of 16 in the car or you have prior DWI convictions on your record, you can be convicted of a gross misdemeanor, which carries higher penalties. A fourth DWI conviction within a 10-year period is a felony.
Although BAC is an important element of a DWI prosecution, you can also be convicted of drunk driving based on the observations of the arresting officer. Your defense lawyer can, on the other hand, challenge all of the evidence against you, including the breath test.
We will examine issues such as whether the police had reasonable suspicion when the police stopped your vehicle, whether the proper procedures were followed, whether the breath test was accurate, reliable and more. Contact us to begin your criminal defense against DWI charges. You can contact us online, or call us at 952-232-1886 or toll-free at 866-719-3452.
Considering Professional Licensing Consequences
Some professionals — including firefighters, police officers and some teachers — may fall under zero-tolerance policies, meaning even a first-time DWI conviction can do serious damage to their licenses and careers.
In addition, any licensed professional may face heavy scrutiny for a DWI conviction. If you are a licensed professional, we will consider your special circumstances, and we can also assist you in any licensing proceedings that may take place.
