In Wisconsin, if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher, you're legally over the limit — and could be charged with Operating While Intoxicated (OWI). But even if your BAC is under .08%, you can still be arrested if the police believe you're impaired behind the wheel.
Over 15 years of DUI and OWI defense experience
Focused exclusively on Wisconsin OWI laws
A strong track record of reduced charges and dismissed cases
Known for clear communication and aggressive defense
Whether this is your first arrest or not, our Milwaukee DUI lawyers know how to protect your rights and fight for the best outcome.
Being arrested for a DUI can be overwhelming. It puts your license, your record, and your future on the line. If you’re facing OWI charges in Milwaukee, you need more than just legal advice — you need someone who’s been here before and knows how to fight back. At Bayer Law Offices, we’ve spent over a decade focusing specifically on OWI and DUI defense. We don’t dabble in these cases — we handle them day in and day out.
Attorney John Bayer has primarily dedicated his legal career to advising and counseling individuals arrested for OWI. He also keeps up to date with the latest forensic science concerning breath and blood tests to ensure he puts his best foot forward for his clients.
In Wisconsin, drunk driving charges are called OWI, short for Operating While Intoxicated. The legal limit is .08% BAC, but you can still be charged even below that if police believe you're impaired. You might hear “DUI” and “OWI” used interchangeably. Legally, Wisconsin uses OWI, but they refer to the same offense: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The moments after an arrest can be confusing, but your actions now matter.
Don’t admit fault or guilt.
Ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions.
Take note of what happened during the stop and arrest.
Schedule a DMV hearing immediately — you often have only 10 days.
Call a defense attorney who focuses on OWI cases.
We’ve helped clients across the Milwaukee area minimize — or even avoid — the consequences of a DUI. Let’s see what we can do for you. Your defense matters. Bayer Law Offices can help.
Getting arrested for OWI in Milwaukee doesn’t just mean court dates — it can also trigger an automatic driver’s license suspension. In Wisconsin, you only have 10 days from the date of your arrest to request a DMV administrative hearing to challenge that suspension.
This is where an experienced Milwaukee OWI lawyer makes a big difference. We know how to navigate the DMV hearing process — including the paperwork, deadlines, and legal strategies that give you a real shot at keeping your license. The sooner you act, the better your chances of staying on the road legally while your case is pending.
Penalties in Wisconsin depend on your BAC level, prior offenses, and whether any injury or damage occurred. Even a first offense can carry serious consequences:
First convictions may not be criminal, but they still carry serious financial and administrative repercussions. Hiring a skilled attorney can help reduce these penalties or avoid them altogether.
First OWI Offense:
Second OWI (within 10 years):
Third OWI (within 10 years):
At Bayer Law Offices, we focus on providing unwavering advocacy for clients facing OWI charges. We know the stakes are high, from potential jail time to the loss of driving privileges and future opportunities. That’s why we offer experienced, comprehensive representation designed to deliver results. Don’t settle for less than the best. Contact Bayer Law Offices online or call (414) 939-9650 for a free consultation.
A DUI conviction remains on your public record forever unless dismissed. Under certain conditions, such as young age at conviction, expungement may be an option, but these cases are rare.
No, Wisconsin law requires “reasonable suspicion” to pull over a driver. DUI checkpoints are prohibited in the state, making it important to challenge stops conducted without proper cause.
Yes, DUI is accessible on background checks, even if it’s a first offense. The type of background screening determines what records are visible, making it vital to seek dismissal or reduction when possible.
"My name is Nick. I hired John as my attorney for a OWI case that carried two serious felony charges. My case stemmed from a divorce and developed into an OWI case that as far as I could see, was going to end my career and send me to prison. I made every bad decision a person could, making any attorney's job a very difficult one. John walked me through every step I needed to take to give myself a fighting chance. His organization and attention to detail is unparalleled. John and even his brother Mike did everything they could to help keep my attitude positive during what I feel was one of the darkest times in my life. My case started in in 2019 and has gone on for almost 3 years. Not once did he bury me in unnecessary fees. John was able to get a not guilty verdict on both of these felony charges while maintaining his integrity. He maintained that honesty was going to be my best defense and it worked. My case was won because John put everything he had into my case. He doesn't miss a detail. Winning this case saved my career and saved my son from having to watch his father go to prison. John makes you feel like you have a friend in that court room when it seems like the world is against you. God forbid you find yourself in this type of situation But if you do, don't gamble with your freedom. John gave me a second chance at life and I honestly feel like I owe him everything. This review is the least I could do for him. Call him. You will not be disappointed with his services."
"I would highly recommend Attorney John Bayer for legal representation regarding any traffic violations you wish to dispute! After speaking to several other Attorneys in the area, Mr. Bayer was the only Attorney I spoke to, who listened to my concerns, answered my questions fully, and also expressed confidence in winning my case! I am happy to report that Attorney Bayer was able to achieve the outcome I had desired regarding my case."
"I cannot say enough good things about attorney Bayer. I was charged with a second OWI and refusal and since this is a criminal charge, felt I needed to hire representation. I interviewed 5 attorneys before deciding on John Bayer, and it was an easy decision. From our first conversation I could tell John was very knowledgable and an expert in his field. Yet at the same time he talks to you like a person and friend, not just another client. He spoke on my level and put everything in layman\'s terms. From there he took care of everything, and kept me informed on what was happening. He understood how important this was to me, and how it could effect me professionally and fought hard for me. He filed a motion to dismiss evidence based on the video we had. The court agreed with everything John argued, and we won the motion. After this he motioned to have the charges dismissed and the court granted dismissal. John was able to get the OWI Second and the Refusal charges dismissed. I cannot express how grateful I am to have had attorney Bayer represent me. He is a true professional in every sense and I would recommend him to anyone that needs his services. Thank you John!"
When confronted with an OWI charge or criminal charges, the situation can feel daunting and overwhelming. We are here to help you shape your path to a better outcome.
If you’ve recently been arrested for a DUI (also known as OWI in Wisconsin), one of your biggest concerns is likely whether you’ll be able to keep your driver’s license. A license suspension is one of the first penalties you might face, but you ...
