How We Defend Clients From DUI And OWI Charges
Last updated on March 26, 2024
Drunk driving charges are immensely intimidating. You are probably worried about your driving privileges, your criminal record and your personal reputation.
When you need an ally who can provide skillful DUI and OWI defense, Babich Sarcone Attorneys at Law can help you. Our attorney Nick Sarcone, for more than 15 years, has helped clients in the Des Moines region and elsewhere in Iowa to stand up for their rights in the criminal justice system.
Proven Success In Cases Throughout Iowa
When it comes to criminal law, some of the successes we have achieved for our clients include dismissed charges, acquittals and reduced sentencing. We have advanced training in trial techniques, so you can feel confident knowing that we can represent you skillfully in court. If you received your DUI or OWI in a county other than Polk, we can still represent you; we have handled cases in counties throughout the state.
FAQs About Drunk Driving Charges In Iowa
Here are some of the questions clients at Babich Sarcone Attorneys at Law have:
What are the penalties for drunk driving in Iowa?
Iowa has some of the harshest consequences for drunk driving in the nation, even for first-time offenders. If you are found guilty of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, you face a mandatory minimum of 48 hours in jail (and up to one year), plus a $1,250 fine, court costs and the loss of your driver’s license for a year. You may also be required to submit to a substance abuse evaluation and make restitution for any damage you caused.
The consequences of a drunk driving or drugged driving conviction range in severity, becoming harsher with every repeat offense. Some of the penalties include:
- First offense: A fine of up to $1,250, license revocation of up to one year and jail time of up to one year.
- Second offense: A fine of up to $6,250, license revocation of up to two years and jail time of up to two years.
- Third offense: A fine of up to $9,375, license revocation of up to six years and jail time of up to five years.
You could also experience unanticipated consequences, such as difficulty finding a job, losing your housing and suspension or expulsion from school. This is why it is so critical to have legal representation as quickly as possible. Some first-time offenders may be eligible for deferred judgment, which can avoid jail time and stigmatization.
Will I lose my license if I’m convicted of drunk driving in Iowa?
Depending on your specific situation, you could lose your driving privileges for between 90 days and six years. It is also important to note that your license is not automatically restored at the end of a revocation period. There are usually quite a few steps involved, and you must meet whatever requirements are imposed, such as the payment of civil fines, completion of a drinking and driving program and passing a new examination.
In some cases, an attorney may be able to help you obtain a temporary restricted license that you can use for work, school and other essential functions, although this requires the use of an ignition interlock device.
What are the common defenses for OWI in Iowa?
Numerous possible defenses may be used in an Iowa OWI case. It may be appropriate to challenge the legality of the traffic stop based on a lack of reasonable, articulable suspicion on the part of the officer involved. Similarly, it is often possible to challenge an officer’s observations and the methods they used to conclude a driver was impaired. Even chemical testing can be challenged based on improper collection techniques, faulty machinery and poor handling.
Stand Up Against Drunk Driving Charges
Do not simply leave matters to chance if charged with DUI or OWI. Instead, work with us to turn matters around and protect your rights. Call us toll-free at 515-817-1870 or send us an email to discuss setting up an initial consultation.