OWI/DWI/DUI Laws in Louisiana

What Is an Owi Charge?

Operating a Motor Vehicle under the Influence (OWI) of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Louisiana. You might be asking yourself, what is an OWI? An OWI is also known as driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI), a conviction may result in a jail or prison sentence, fines, and loss of your driver’s license. Whether it is your first, second, or third or more DUI offense, the penalties are severe.

If you or someone you care for has been arrested for OWI/DUI/DWI in the state of Louisiana, you need an experienced OWI defense attorney to defend your case and protect your rights. Remember, just because you are charged with a crime, does not mean that you are guilty.

Contact Precht Law Firm online or by phone at (337) 201-9119 
for a free consultation to discuss your OWI charge.

General Information:

• How Is An OWI, DUI, Or DWI Charge Defined Under Louisiana State Law?

Louisiana OWI/DWI/DUI Laws

Louisiana’s OWI laws are written in Louisiana Revised Statute 14:98. 

Driving while intoxicated is defined as operating any:

• Vehicle
• Aircraft
• Watercraft
• Vessel
• Bicycle
• ATV

While under the influence of:

• alcoholic beverages,
• the operator’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% percent or more,
• the operator is under the influence of any controlled dangerous substance,
• the operator is under the influence of any combination of the above.

If the operator of the motor vehicle has a BAC of 0.15% or higher, or 0.20% or higher, the penalties for driving while under the influence will be enhanced.

Is an OWI Worse Than a DUI in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is generally considered to be the same as a DUI (Driving Under the Influence). The state uses both terms to refer to the crime of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs.

The specific penalties for an OWI/DUI in Louisiana will depend on the specific circumstances of the offense and the offender's prior criminal history. In general, the penalties for an OWI/DUI in Louisiana can include:

• Fines
• Jail time
• License suspension or revocation
• Community service
• Alcohol education or treatment programs
• Ignition interlock device installation

It is worth noting that the penalties for an OWI/DUI in Louisiana can be enhanced if certain aggravating factors are present, such as having a high BAC at the time of the offense or causing an accident that resulted in injury or death.

If you have been charged with an OWI/DUI in Louisiana, it is important to seek the help of a qualified attorney. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action to take and help you try to minimize the consequences of a DUI charge.

Administrative License Suspension

If you are arrested for OWI, the arresting officer will take your driver’s license and issue you a 30-day driving permit. The driver can schedule a hearing within 30 days of the notice to appeal the administrative suspension. If the hearing goes against the driver, his or her license will be revoked for either one year or 90 days, depending on that driver’s driving history.

You should consult with an experienced Lafayette OWI attorney before attending the hearing. The law can be complex, and if you try to represent yourself you will be expected to know and follow the law. Do not face it alone, and possibly lose your rights. Our lawyers can protect and defend against an OWI charge.

Is Drunk Driving a Felony?

Whether drunk driving is classified as a felony depends on several key factors, including the driver's prior convictions, the circumstances of the offense, and state law. In many cases, a first-time DUI offense is charged as a misdemeanor, which carries serious consequences but is generally less severe than a felony. However, a DUI can escalate to a felony under specific conditions.

A common reason for a DUI to become a felony is the existence of previous DUI convictions. In many jurisdictions, a third or fourth DUI offense within a certain time frame, often ten years, may automatically elevate the charge to a felony. Additionally, if the DUI incident results in severe injury or death, it is much more likely to be prosecuted as a felony, carrying harsher penalties and the potential for a lengthy prison sentence. Other factors, such as having a minor in the vehicle at the time of arrest or having an exceptionally high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), can also lead to felony DUI charges.

Felony DUI charges come with more severe consequences than misdemeanor DUIs, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended license suspensions. The long-term impact of a felony DUI conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. Legal guidance is essential for individuals facing felony DUI charges, as a skilled attorney can analyze the details of the case and work to reduce charges or penalties where possible.

First Offense OWI/DUI/DWI

A first-time charge for OWI in Louisiana is a misdemeanor. The following penalties may apply.

• Up to six months in jail, or a fine of $300 to $1,000, or both.
• 48 hours in jail.
• Up to two years of probation supervision.
• Approximately 30 hours of education in driver improvement, substance abuse, and a MADD victims impact program.
• At least 32 hours of community service.

If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, additional harsher penalties may apply, even if it is your first offense.

Second Offense OWI/DUI/DWI

A second-time charge of OWI is still considered a misdemeanor but carries harsher penalties. These include:

• a minimum fine of $750 to $1,000;
• 48 hours of a jail sentence must be served, no suspension of the sentence is allowed;
• up to 30 days of community service;
• the same education requirements of a first time OWI; and
• the possibility of imposition of an ignition interlock device.

If your BAC is 0.15% or higher, additional harsher penalties will apply. An experienced OWI attorney can help you to understand the increased penalties which apply to your unique case.

Third Offense OWI/DUI/DWI

If you are convicted of a third OWI charge, it is now a felony and the penalties become more severe. Now you face the stigma of the “felon” label. Penalties include:

• a fine of $2,000,
• one to five years in prison,
• 30 days of community service,
• mandatory addiction disorder assessment and evaluation,
• the possibility of home incarceration and probation,
• possible seizure of the vehicle, and
• required ignition interlock device on all vehicles driven by the offender.

Fourth or Subsequent OWI/DUI/DWI

A fourth or more charge of DWI is a felony, and is subject to the following penalties:

• A fine of $5,000.
• A minimum of 10 years in prison up to a maximum of 30 years in prison.
• 40 days of community service.
• Two years of the sentence must be served without any suspension or parole.
• Home incarceration for one year.
• Electronic monitoring.
• Probation.
• Seizure of the offender’s vehicle.
• Required treatment for addiction disorder.

Defending Against OWI/DWI/DUI Charges in Lafayette

Being charged with an OWI/DWI/DUI in Louisiana can have serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time. It's important to have a skilled DUI defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.

At Precht Law Firm, our experienced Lafayette DWI lawyers have a deep understanding of Louisiana laws and know how to build a strong defense strategy. We will thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the evidence against you, and work to minimize the impact of the charges on your life.

Our DUI defense services include:

• Legal representation in OWI/DWI/DUI court proceedings
• Negotiating plea bargains and reduced charges
• Defending against license suspension
• Exploring alternative sentencing options
• Providing guidance and support throughout the legal process

If you're facing OWI/DWI/DUI charges in Lafayette, LA, don't wait to seek legal help. Contact Precht Law Firm today for a free consultation and personalized defense strategy.

Contact Precht Law Firm online or by phone at (337) 201-9119 
for a free consultation to discuss your OWI charge.