OWI Laws in Iowa

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First Offense:

  • Minimum Penalties (Serious Misdemeanor):
    • 48 hours in jail (can be served as a weekend program)
    • $1,250 fine (may be reduced to $625 if a temporary restricted license is obtained and an ignition interlock device is installed)
    • Substance abuse evaluation and treatment
    • License revocation: 180 days (or 1 year if no test was taken)
  • Maximum Penalties:
    • Up to 1 year in jail
    • $1,250 fine
    • License revocation: 1 year (or 2 years if no test was taken)
    • Up to 1 year probation

Second Offense:

  • Minimum Penalties (Aggravated Misdemeanor):
    • 7 days in jail
    • $1,875 fine
    • Substance abuse evaluation and treatment
    • License revocation: 1 year
    • Up to 2 years probation
  • Maximum Penalties:
    • Up to 2 years in prison
    • $6,250 fine

Third or Subsequent Offense:

  • Minimum Penalties:
    • 30 days in jail
    • $3,125 fine
    • Substance abuse evaluation and treatment
    • License revocation: 6 years
    • 2 years probation
  • Maximum Penalties:
    • Up to 5 years in prison
    • $9,375 fine
    • Up to 5 years probation

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NCDD members have access to a comprehensive forensic library that provides invaluable information to be used when defending clients charged with DUI.

This library includes scientific articles on drug and alcohol intoxication, toxicology and pharmacology, methods of testing for blood alcohol content, field sobriety testing, potential errors that may occur during testing, accident reconstruction, expert testimony, and evidentiary rules. This valuable information can ensure that you provide a high quality defense to clients charged with DUI based on the circumstances of their case and the laws in their state.

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