Des Moines DUI First Offense Attorneys

Iowa OWI First Offense Charges

In Iowa, even a first-time operating while under the influence (OWI) charge is serious. Depending on the situation, the arrest alone can lead to a driver's license revocation, which can seriously hamper a person's ability to carry out their daily tasks, such as going to work or the grocery store. A conviction for a first offense OWI also carries the possibility of driver's license suspension, and it can lead to incarceration, fines, and a bevy of other sanctions. Thus, if you've been accused, you need experienced legal representation on your side to fight the charge and seek to avoid the severe consequences associated with this crime.

At Branstad & Olson, our Des Moines OWI first offense lawyers understand the hurdles that can arise in such matters. That is why we take these cases seriously. When you choose us, you can be sure that you will have counsel on your side committed to fighting toward the best possible outcome on your behalf. From the start of your case, our attorneys invest the time and resources necessary to build an aggressive defense. To do that, we listen to your side of the story and examine every detail, noting any weaknesses in proof, procedural errors, or misconduct that could impact your case.

To schedule a free consultation with a member of our team, call our Des Moines OWI first offense attorneys at (515) 329-3100 or contact us online.

OWI First Offense Iowa Laws

The first offense OWI laws in Iowa are similar to those concerning second or subsequent violations. Of course, the difference is that the individual has not previously been convicted of this crime.

Under Iowa Code § 321J.2, a person commits an OWI when they operate a vehicle:

• While under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol,
• With an alcohol concentration of .08 or higher, or
• When they have any amount of a controlled substance in their system.

A driver may be considered "operating a vehicle" when they are in control of a moving vehicle or one that has been started. Thus, even if the person was not actually driving the car, if the engine was running and they could manipulate one of the controls that propel the vehicle, they could be charged with an offense.

Additionally, a person could be considered "under the influence" if their normal faculties, such as their cognitive and motor abilities, were impaired because of the substance.

At Branstad & Olson, we recognize that the arresting officer may have collected evidence to help the prosecution prove that the driver was under the influence while operating a vehicle. However, we also know that improper procedures could diminish the integrity of such evidence. When we take on a case, we examine the preliminary tests run on the driver, the chemical test analyses, and other logs and reports to determine if anything may have skewed the results. Our DUI first offense attorneys in Des Moines are prepared to do what it takes to protect your rights.