A DUI, referred to as an OWI in Iowa, is a serious criminal offense that has the capacity to cause significant accidents, injuries, and even death. Because of the severity of the offense, the associated penalties can be severe. Whether this is your first offense or you have had prior convictions, it is imperative that you understand the potential outcomes of your case, including how long you may be sentenced to jail for your DUI. Reach out to a knowledgeable Dallas County OWI lawyer at Iowa Defenders, PLLC to discuss your situation and obtain skilled representation today.

What is an OWI?

OWI stands for Operating While Intoxicated. This offense is outlined in Iowa Code § 321J.2 and involves the operation of a motor vehicle while being intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Under this law, an individual could be considered guilty of operating while under the influence if they are caught driving a car under any of the following conditions.

  • While under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or other drug or a combination of such substances
  • While having an alcohol concentration of .08 or more
  • While any amount of a controlled substance is present in the person, as measured in the person’s blood or urine

How Long Will I Be Sentenced to Jail for an OWI in Iowa?

The length of your sentence can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of your situation. A first offense OWI is considered a serious misdemeanor, a second offense is an aggravated misdemeanor, and a third or subsequent offense is a class D felony. The standard sentencing for each level of offense is as follows.

  • First offense: A minimum period of imprisonment in county jail for 48 hours and up to 1 year
  • Second offense: A minimum period of imprisonment in county jail for 7 days and up to 2 years
  • Third offense: A minimum period of imprisonment in county jail for 30 days and up to 5 years

It is important to understand that while these ranges are standard, the actual outcome of your sentencing can vary depending on the details of the offense. Aggravating factors like a high BAC, having a child passenger, or causing an accident, injury, or death can result in more significant sentencing.

What Other Penalties Can I Incur?

It is important to understand that driving under the influence can result in not only jail time but also additional legal consequences. For example, a first-offense OWI will result in 48 hours to 1 year in jail, but it can also be accompanied by fines of up to $1,250, a 180-day license revocation, and alternative penalties.

For a second offense, you could face fines of $1,875 to $6,250 and a one-year license revocation. A third conviction will result in $3,125 to $9,375 in fines and a license revocation of up to 6 years.

To secure skilled representation, reach out to an experienced criminal defense attorney today.