Drunk Driving (OWI/DUI) Defense Attorney
When the state goes to court against you, they will be represented by their lawyers. Whether or not you retain Qualley & Bleyhl to defend you, representation by a competent attorney throughout the process is the best way to protect your rights. OWI is a big money maker for the State of Iowa. Long gone are the days when OWIs were dismissed as professional favors. If you are convicted, the minimum punishment for a first OWI offense is a $1,250 fine, a two day jail sentence, and a 180 day suspension of your driving privileges. Don't get caught up in the State's rush for your money. Retain a lawyer who will fight for you and your rights.
Flat Fee Drunk Driving Defense
You've been arrested for drunk driving. You know you need a lawyer but you're hesitant because you're afraid of a big legal bill. At Qualley & Bleyhl, we offer flat-fee drunk driving defense in certain cases. Although we can't offer flat-fees in every case, we will be happy to consult with you (at no-cost) to determine whether or not a flat-fee is appropriate for your case. If it is, you'll know up front what you are going to spend before you retain us for your defense. Flat, predictable fees are just one of the ways that we can help you take some of the uncertainty out of the legal process. Contact us to setup your free initial consultation.
Know what to expect
With Qualley & Bleyhl, your lawyer will explain the entire OWI process to you at the outset of representation. After your initial consultation, your attorney will prepare and file all necessary paperwork on your behalf and represent you at all court appearances. Your attorney will also provide you with regular case updates while your issue is pending and explain any legal proceedings should you have questions. We accept many OWI cases on a flat-fee basis. In other words, you will know the cost of your lawyer at the beginning of your case. If we are able to accept your case on a flat-fee basis, your cost of representation will remain the same even if your case involves a jury trial.
If you're charged with drunk driving...
you may be faced with expensive fines, losing your driver’s license, and/or going to jail. No lawyer can guarantee to eliminate or minimize these consequences. However, retaining a lawyer from Qualley & Bleyhl will ensure that you will be competently represented by an attorney who will protect your rights and guide you through a potentially difficult legal process. If you've been charged with an OWI, don't hesitate, contact us now to speak to one of our friendly and knowledgable attorneys.
OWI Facts
Should I take the BAC test?
Taking a test that could result in showing that your blood alcohol content (BAC) is over the legal limit can have negative criminal consequences should you be charged with Operating While Intoxicated. Not taking the test at the request of an officer, however, may also result in negative consequences. The Department of Transportation expects that all licensed drivers be willing to submit to tests to show that they are not intoxicated while they are on the road. If you refuse to take the test, your driver’s license could potentially be suspended for longer than if you take the test and are over the legal limit.
If this is your first offense in the past 12 years…
Penalty for failing the test = license suspended for 6 months
Penalty for refusing the test = license suspended for 12 months
In each case there is a potential to apply for a temporary restricted license. When you are eligible to apply and whether an ignition interlock device is required depends on whether you took the test, if there was an accident, and your BAC.
**If you refuse the test you also will not be eligible for a deferred judgment that may otherwise be available in certain circumstances
If this is your second offense in the past 12 years…
Penalty for failing the test=license suspended for 1 year (eligible for work permit after 45 days)
Penalty for refusing the test=license suspended for 2 years (eligible for work permit after 90 days)
If this is your third or subsequent offense in the past 12 years…
You are facing a felony if you are charged. Your license can be barred by the DOT for 6 years. The ONLY reason you should take the test is if you are positive that you are under the legal limit.
I have been charged with an OWI—what do I do?
Being charged with an OWI can carry many consequences. The mandatory minimum consequences for being convicted of your first OWI includes 2 days in jail and a $1250 fine with an additional 35% surcharge. In addition there are consequences from the Department of Transportation, most often including a suspension of your driver’s license. You have 10 DAYS after being charged with an OWI to appeal your driver’s license suspension with the DOT. The State will have an attorney representing their interests-- you should also have a lawyer who will fight for your rights. Click or call (515) 974-5658 Qualley & Bleyhl now.