Janesville OWI Lawyer
- Our Location
Madison, WI
- Free Consultations
(608) 204-5807
Why You Need a Janesville OWI Lawyer Who Knows the Local Courts
Battling an OWI charge in Janesville carries the same serious legal weight as it does across Wisconsin. However, the importance of hiring a defense attorney who knows the Rock County legal system cannot be overstated. At DK Anderson, S.C., our attorneys are deeply familiar with Janesville’s court procedures, judges, and prosecutors—and that insight can give you a real advantage.
Whether you’re charged with a first offense OWI or facing enhanced penalties for a second or subsequent offense, we understand what’s at stake: your freedom, driving privileges, finances, and future. We fight aggressively to reduce or dismiss OWI charges and minimize sentencing outcomes when conviction is unavoidable.
Understanding How OWI Citations Work in Janesville
If you receive a citation for an OWI-related offense in Janesville, your case will be heard in the Rock County Circuit Court, but who prosecutes the case depends on the specifics:
• First offense OWI citations issued by the Janesville Police Department are generally prosecuted by the Janesville City Attorney’s Office.
• All other first offenses (issued by the Rock County Sheriff or State Patrol) and second or subsequent OWI offenses are handled by the Rock County District Attorney’s Office.
Knowing which prosecutor is assigned to your case can influence strategy and potential outcomes. Our team has direct experience with both Janesville’s city attorneys and Rock County prosecutors, and we use that knowledge to help secure the best possible result.
Rock County OWI Penalties & Sentencing Guidelines
While Wisconsin’s OWI penalties are determined by state statute, Rock County courts interpret and apply those penalties based on their own practices and the 5th Judicial District’s OWI Sentencing Guidelines. These guidelines influence everything from jail time and fines to Ignition Interlock Device (IID) requirements.
Typical OWI Penalties in Rock County Include:
• First Offense: Civil forfeiture, license revocation, IID if BAC ≥ 0.15
• Second Offense: Mandatory jail (5 days to 6 months), fine ($350–$1,100), IID (minimum 1 year, max 18 months), license revocation (12–18 months)
• Third Offense: Jail (45 days to 1 year), increased fines, longer revocation, extended IID period
• Felony OWI (4th or more): Prison time, substantial fines, long-term supervision
Just because you’ve been charged doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted. With experienced representation, many OWI cases result in reduced penalties, dismissals, or alternative sentencing.
Rock County OWI Treatment Court: An Alternative to Jail
For qualifying individuals facing third or fourth OWI offenses, the Rock County OWI Court offers an alternative path that emphasizes treatment and rehabilitation over incarceration. This voluntary, post-adjudication specialty court aims to improve public safety and reduce repeat offenses by helping participants become and remain sober drivers.
The Rock County OWI Court is a five-phase program involving:
• Intensive supervision by a case manager and probation officer
• Regular court appearances before the OWI Court judge
• Participation in individualized substance use disorder (SUD) treatment
• Random drug and alcohol testing, home visits, and mandatory support group attendance
• Electronic monitoring (SCRAM) during participation
The program is operated in collaboration with the Rock County Human Services Department and Treatment Court Services, providing access to counseling, treatment resources, and services through all phases. Participants also work with the Intoxicated Driver Program to regain their driver’s license as part of their recovery journey.
This court is designed not only to reduce recidivism, but also to save money, improve public safety, and support long-term sobriety. If you are eligible, participation in the OWI Court could result in less jail time and better long-term outcomes.
To find out if you qualify for the Rock County OWI Court, contact DK Anderson, S.C. for a free consultation.
Defending Against a Drunk Driving Charge in Rock County
An aggressive OWI defense is essential. At DK Anderson, S.C., we fight drunk driving charges by:
✔ Challenging the legality of the traffic stop – Was there reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle?
✔ Reviewing field sobriety and chemical test procedures – Were tests administered correctly? Was the breath or blood machine properly maintained?
✔ Requesting and analyzing video footage – Police dash cam and body cam footage can often contradict the arrest report.
✔ Filing motions to suppress evidence – Unlawfully obtained evidence can be excluded from trial.
✔ Taking your case to trial – If necessary, we are ready to fight for you in court.
Whether you’re facing a first offense or a fifth, we use the same focused, meticulous defense strategy to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Administrative Review Hearings in OWI Cases
If you were cited for having a prohibited alcohol concentration (PAC) or tested positive for a restricted controlled substance, you have the right to request an administrative review hearing. While these hearings are tough to win, they allow us to:
• Question the arresting officer outside of court
• Examine the initial traffic stop and probable cause
• Begin building a strategic defense early in your case
Even if the hearing doesn’t result in license reinstatement, it helps expose defenses that could be used in your criminal case.
Why Choose DK Anderson, S.C. as Your Janesville OWI Lawyer
✔ Extensive OWI defense experience in Rock County
✔ Knowledge of local prosecutors and court procedures
✔ Aggressive legal strategy tailored to your unique case
✔ Track record of successful case outcomes
✔ Willingness to go to trial when needed
We understand that the thought of losing your license, paying thousands in fines, and possibly serving jail time is overwhelming. That’s why we’re here—to fight for your future.
Take the First Step Toward Your Defense
If you’re facing an OWI charge in Janesville or elsewhere in Rock County, get in touch today for a free consultation. We’ll explain your options, review your case, and begin building a powerful defense.Let DK Anderson, S.C. stand between you and a conviction—we’re ready to help you fight back.
📞 Call Now: (608) 204-5807
Frequently Asked Questions - Janesville OWIs
All OWI cases in Janesville are handled in Rock County Circuit Court, located in Janesville, WI. However, if your charge is a first offense and was issued by the Janesville Police Department, your case may be prosecuted by the City Attorney and handled as a municipal matter.
Absolutely. A local attorney familiar with Rock County court procedures and prosecutors can make a major difference in plea negotiations, motions, and trial outcomes. At DK Anderson, S.C., we use our local knowledge to help secure reduced penalties or even case dismissals.
It depends on whether your case is prosecuted by the City Attorney or the Rock County District Attorney. The District Attorney’s Office generally handles cases more strictly, especially if it’s a repeat offense. We tailor our strategy based on which office is involved.
A first offense OWI in Wisconsin is a civil violation, not a criminal conviction—unless certain aggravating factors apply (e.g., minor in the vehicle, injury caused). A second OWI is a criminal charge, a misdemeanor, and has mandatory jail time if convicted.
You may face administrative suspension of your driver’s license 30 days after arrest. However, you have a limited window (10 days) to request an administrative review hearing to contest the suspension. Our team can help you act quickly to protect your driving privileges.
Our Practice Areas
Drunk Driving
Whether you are charged with a first offense, or a fifth offense, our Wisconsin OWI attorneys can help.
Violent Crimes
A conviction for any one of Wisconsin's violent crimes will have significant consequences.
Drug Charges
Our Wisconsin Drug charge attorneys know the law and how to apply that law in the court room.
Domestic Violence
A conviction for a domestic violence charge in Wisconsin has additional consequences.
Property Crimes
Wisconsin property crimes include theft, forgery, and criminal damage to property.
Sex Offenses
Not much will change your life like a conviction for one of Wisconsin's sex offense charges.
Traffic Citations
Although less serious than a criminal charge, a traffic citation can effect your driver's license.