The terms DUI and OWI both refer to the act of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other substances. The laws of Iowa refer to drunk driving charges as operating while intoxicated (OWI). Conviction of an OWI offense in Iowa can cause overwhelming problems. Loss of driver license is the most long lasting and inconvenient of the consequences. Significant fines are imposed. It is imperative to hire an attorney who can defend your rights and provide the best possible representation for you during all court proceedings on your case At the Law Office of Raphael M. Scheetz, we have worked with many Operating While Intoxicated cases, for both automobiles and boats. From the moment we are hired to represent your case, you can rest assured that we will begin to work diligently to build a tough defense strategy to win your case. A first-time OWI conviction in Iowa typically results in severe penalties. Depending on the level of alcohol in your body, whether you consented to a breath test, or whether an accident resulted, you may be subject to some or all of the following penalties for a first offense:

• Temporary impounding of your vehicle
• A fine of up to several thousand dollars
• Installation of an ignition lock that prevents your car from starting if you’ve been drinking
• Probation
• Possible jail time
• Revocation of your driver’s license
• Community service
• Completion of substance abuse classes at your own expense

If you have multiple prior convictions, you can be prosecuted in Iowa for felony OWI – even if no accident occurred. In Iowa, you can be prosecuted for felony OWI on your third offense within 12 years, and you can be charged with a felony for even a first offense if you caused an accident – particularly if someone was injured or died. If the accident resulted in a death, you can be charged with vehicular homicide, which will lead to significant imprisonment. At Law Office of Raphael M. Scheetz we know how to use a variety of defense strategies that may lead to a “not guilty” verdict or reduce the penalties you face. We can challenge the reason for the original traffic stop, the results of a field sobriety test or the results of a breathalyzer test. The law surrounding OWI arrests and convictions is complicated. Plus, the facts of each case are unique. Contact the Law Office of Raphael M. Scheetz to discuss how we can help you.