When you are accused of a crime, the law requires a presumption of innocence. In the court of public opinion, however, innocence is rarely the presumption. When you are accused of committing a crime, you face a wealth of unpleasant consequences including fines and imprisonment. You are also faced with navigating the criminal justice system, which can be both confusing and terrifying.
Luckily, The Fitzgerald Law Firm, with its extensive experience in criminal defense, can ease your burdens. Our attorneys will be responsive to your needs, protect your rights throughout the process, and achieve for you the best possible result. Our membership in the Assigned Counsel Division of the Wisconsin Public Defender’s Office testifies to our extensive experience in all types of criminal defense cases.
Have you been arrested for OWI (Operating While Intoxicated,) also known as a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated), a DUI (Driving Under the Influence), or OUI (Operating Under the Influence)? If so, The Fitzgerald Law Firm can help. When choosing your legal counsel, time is of the essence. In many situations, you may have only 10 days to challenge an automatic revocation of your driving privileges. Do not hesitate or delay; your rights hang in the balance. Call us and secure the legal representation you deserve.
At The Fitzgerald Law Firm your initial consultation is always free and you will always meet directly with one of our attorneys. We understand that appointments during traditional working hours may not be convenient for all, and thus we strive to be available for evening, weekend, and off-site appointments.
Have you recently seen this in your rearview mirror? We can help. Millions upon millions of Americans receive traffic citations every year. You are certainly not alone. With our help, however, you will fare better than your fellow citizens. Though you may think pleading guilty to the citation and paying the fine is your best bet, consider the following:
1. ANY conviction for a moving violation can raise your insurance rates dramatically.
2. Multiple convictions for traffic violations can result in a license suspension or revocation. In Wisconsin, if you are convicted of driving with a revoked license, you may be sentenced to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine. In Illinois, driving with a suspended or revoked license (DWLS) is a serious matter and can result in a criminal conviction. If you are convicted of DWLS you face up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The potential jail time and ticket amount increases if the court discovers aggravating circumstances.
3. If you were involved in an accident, received a citation, and are being sued in a civil action, the conviction may be used in a civil lawsuit to show that you were negligent.
4. If you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), you could lose your license and the ability to earn a living.
If convicted for a moving violation, even one as simple as a speeding ticket, you face fines and court fees, increased insurance premiums, and traffic school. You may also suffer from possible suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. Please note that if your Wisconsin license is suspended, you may not be able to obtain a license in any other state until the suspension is removed. In addition to these consequences, you may have to give up a day’s pay to attend court.
Although your citation may only be $100-$250, its ramifications to your insurance will be extremely costly. Many automobile insurers issue a 45% increase in your premiums for each speeding ticket you get. Two tickets would nearly double your current premium. With today’s high automobile insurance rates, you could be forced to pay $5,000 over the next five years. Do not let this happen to you. Call us for an economical solution to your problem.
The Fitzgerald Law Firm will provide the following services in your defense:
1. We will do everything in our power to have your citation “knocked down” to a non-moving violation. This is important because Wisconsin driving law operates under a demerit system. Each violation you receive will dock points from your license. Too many points docked and your license will be revoked. You will then be required to endure an expensive and lengthy process to restore your driving privileges. If you hold a probationary license, your point deductions are larger and each violation will cost you more.
2. If you failed to show up to court on your designated court date, call us immediately. Very likely, a warrant exists for your arrest. The Fitzgerald Law Firm may be able to quash this warrant the very day of your call. We will also represent you at your rescheduled court date.
3. Are you an out-of-state driver? If so, you are at a significant disadvantage. You will be required to return to your home state for your trial. To lessen the hassle this presents you, call The Fitzgerald Law Firm. We will contact the prosecuting attorney and attempt to negotiate an acceptable solution to assure you fairness and save you time by keeping your case out of court.
4. “ I did not commit the crime and I want my day in court!” No problem. The Fitzgerald Law Firm will take your case to trial and adamantly defend you. It should be noted, however, that the majority of clients do not wish to go to court and would rather rely on the absolute certainty of a negotiation than face the uncertainty of trial.
At The Fitzgerald Law Firm your initial consultation is always free and you will always meet directly with one of our attorneys. We understand that appointments during traditional working hours may not be convenient for all, and thus we strive to be available for evening, weekend, and off-site appointments.