OWI & DUI Attorneys in Iowa City & Davenport
Providing DUI Defense Throughout Cedar Rapids & Quad City
You’re tailgating on Melrose Avenue and then cheering for the Iowa Hawkeyes in Kinnick Stadium and next thing you know, you’re being pulled over by ICPD or an Iowa State Trooper and participating in field sobriety tests or blowing in a breathalyzer device. When this happens and you’ve had too much to drink, you may be charged with an OWI or DUI and thinking your life has come to a screeching halt. We see this often. Don’t hesitate; call our experienced attorneys immediately to begin working on your defense.
If you have been charged with a traffic offense, you have the right to obtain qualified legal representation. At Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger, our Iowa City & Davenport OWI/DUI defense lawyers can help you defend against your charges and work to prevent your driver’s license from being suspended or revoked. With over 53 years of combined experience, our legal professionals have what it takes to protect our client’s rights. Regardless of whether this is your first or third offense, we can help you build a strategic defense. Recognizing the severity of DUI charges, our attorneys are dedicated to developing effective defenses that may reduce penalties or potentially lead to dismissals, depending on the circumstances. This could include challenging the legality of the traffic stop, scrutinizing the accuracy of field sobriety tests, or questioning the results of breathalyzers based on calibration and operation standards.
Don't face OWI charges alone. Contact our Iowa City DUI attorney to get started on your defense. Call (319) 499-5524 or contact us online today.
OWI/DUI Defense
- BWI
- FAQs
- Felony
- License Revocation
- Out Of State Drivers
- OWI/DUI Penalties
- Should I Take A Breath Test
- Vehicular Homicide
Understanding OWI/DUIs in Iowa
It's important to be aware of the potential penalties and consequences of an OWI/DUI conviction in Iowa. Our experienced OWI attorneys can provide you with a clear understanding of the potential repercussions and help you navigate through the legal process. Our dedication is to not only mitigate penalties but to help our clients understand their rights and options at every stage of their defense strategy, ensuring a comprehensive approach that takes the individual circumstances of each case into account.
Some common OWI/DUI penalties in Iowa may include:
- Driver's license suspension or revocation
- Fines and court costs
- Possible jail time
- Mandatory participation in substance abuse education or treatment programs
- Ignition interlock device installation
Iowa BAC Limit
In Iowa, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of 0.08 percent or more. Also, individuals are prohibited from driving while under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or a combination of the two. If there is any amount of a controlled substance present in a driver’s blood or urine, they may be arrested for OWI. These strict standards underscore the importance of our detailed case reviews, where we assess every aspect of the arrest and evidence collection to identify any discrepancies or procedural missteps that could be used in the defense.
When someone has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) or operating while intoxicated (OWI), the first question is usually, “What are the consequences?” Iowa deals strictly with OWI/DUI offenses and imposes mandatory minimum sentences. The severity of the penalty increases based on how many prior convictions the individual has, which may determine if it’s a felony OWI in Iowa or not. Understanding the full spectrum of potential penalties helps clients prepare better for what lies ahead, while allowing our legal team to identify possible paths for reducing or even eliminating charges.
Keep in mind that these are the maximum penalties. If you’re charged with an OWI that resulted in vehicular homicide, the penalties can be much higher. A team of skilled criminal defense attorneys can help to minimize the consequences or even get the charges dismissed altogether. Being proactive from the onset can significantly affect the trajectory of your case, and our attorneys are committed to exploring all possible avenues for dismissal or reduction of charges based on the specifics of the incident and the quality of the evidence gathered against you.
OWI/DUI Penalties in Iowa
1st DUI Penalties
- One year in jail, a $1,250 fine, license revocation for one year, and an ignition interlock device until a temporary restrictive license is obtained, if required.
2nd> DUI Penalties
- Two years in jail, a $6,250 fine, license revocation for two years, and an ignition interlock device for one year.
3rd> DUI Penalties
- Five years in jail, a $9,375 fine, license revocation for six years, and an ignition interlock device for one year.
Defenses to OWI/DUI in Iowa City & Davenport
Many people fail to defend themselves against OWI/DUI charges because they believe the charges against them are open-and-shut. In reality, there are many defenses to OWI/DUI because there are many opportunities for police officers to make mistakes and for equipment to malfunction. The outcome of your case will have a lasting effect on your life. It is in your own best interest to hold the authorities accountable for following proper procedures at every step. Call Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger today for a free consultation about protecting yourself. Understanding these defenses, such as contesting the validity of the vehicle stop or the reliability of breathalyzer tests, requires a nuanced strategy that our attorneys are well-equipped to provide. This can lead to opportunities for reduced sentencing or even dismissals when inconsistencies are found.
By understanding the potential penalties, you can make informed decisions about your defense strategy and work towards minimizing the impact of an OWI/DUI conviction. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and providing aggressive defense to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Leveraging our deep understanding of Iowa's legal landscape, we aim to preemptively counter the prosecution's narrative and ensure that no unjust evidence is used against you. This involves a meticulous approach where every detail is considered to safeguard your future.
Our OWI Lawyers Can Help Examine the Circumstances of Your Case
At Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger, our attorneys have successfully defended many drivers against OWI/DUI charges stemming from procedural mistakes or faulty BAC testing equipment.
Our OWI lawyers can examine the circumstances of your case to determine whether:
- The police had probable cause to stop your vehicle.
- The police read you your rights.
- The field sobriety or breath test was properly administered.
- The BAC testing equipment was operated and maintained according to protocol.
- Communication requests were denied.
Attorney J. Dean Keegan has dedicated himself to understanding the science behind BAC testing and other scientific tools at the prosecutor's disposal. This knowledge allows our team to effectively challenge the legitimacy of the tests used against you by pinpointing any deviations in the operation or calibration of breathalyzer devices, potentially disqualifying them as evidence. Our legal strategies are informed by the latest insights into the technology and methods employed within DUI enforcement, making us uniquely equipped to find and exploit weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
Understanding Field Sobriety Tests
When facing an OWI/DUI charge, it's important to understand the various types of field sobriety tests that law enforcement officers may administer. These tests are designed to assess a driver's level of impairment and can include tasks such as walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, or following a moving object with your eyes. Knowing your rights in these instances can significantly influence your responsibilities and rights under interrogation.
Our experienced Iowa City OWI attorneys at Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger can provide guidance and representation if you have been charged with an OWI/DUI in Iowa City, Davenport, Cedar Rapids, or the Quad City area. We can help you understand your legal options and work to build a strong defense strategy based on the circumstances of your case. By keeping you informed throughout the legal process, we empower you to make decisions that can positively affect the outcome of your defense.
Breath Tests in Iowa
DataMaster is the only breath test machine approved for use in Iowa, but several issues can render your BAC test results inadmissible and cause the state to drop the charges against you. The operator of the machine must be certified, the machine itself must be certified and calibrated, the test run results need to be recorded properly, and the mouthpiece must be changed between tests. Even when these conditions are met, DataMaster is still prone to error. Through our practice, we remain keenly aware of these procedural vulnerabilities and utilize them to challenge evidentiary validity.
The machine is essentially a calculator that makes assumptions about you. It cannot differentiate between subtle differences in biomechanics. The state has built assumptions into the machine that benefit the state, not the defendant. Our ability to demonstrate these discrepancies showcases a commitment to not only serving our clients but achieving equitability within the judicial process as well. Faulty results can be disputed, and our informed approach ensures the strongest defense possible against DUI charges premised on such tests.
If you have questions about the validity of your traffic stop or the results of your breath test, call (319) 499-5524 to speak to an Iowa City & Davenport DUI lawyer.
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“Eric Tindal was the defense attorney on a serious case for someone I love. Throughout the case, Eric was a careful listener and a responsive communicator. But most importantly, he was HIGHLY effective in trial: personable with the jury, but savage when arguing his points. The other attorney he works with, Andrea, is extremely on point as well. The prosecutor gave up and asked for a deal halfway through the trial. The original charges had involved decades in prison. By the time Eric was done, that had melted away to months. Eric won him another chance at life with this trial. My loved one is a black man who has encountered a lot of racism within the criminal justice system in Iowa, and we were glad to find an attorney who acknowledged his concerns and who we felt confident would fight hard to ensure his right to a fair trial. Eric and Andrea more than delivered on this. Would recommend them to anyone.”- Nora H.
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“My name is Charles A. W. and I was represented by Andrea D. Jaeger of the law firm Keegan, Tindal, & Jaeger. And I must say that Andrea’s a very confident, charismatic woman in the courtroom. Her poise was always on point and she never wavered, any and everything that transpired in or out of the courtroom I was made aware of, promptly and professionally always. From the beginning of my indictment all the way until my sentencing, Andrea made me feel calm, comfortable, and most of all content!! Please keep up the great work, Andrea, and I’m very grateful as well as appreciative for you representing me. (Thank you very much.)”- Charles W.
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“I was stopped for an OWI. Dean took things as far as he could with the appeals process, finding every way possible to keep me driving in the meantime (which I needed to do for my job). Dean argued the reason for pulling me over was not substantial enough to justify a stop, and we eventually won. Though I certainly do not plan to have to use Dean's services again, I am glad he was there to get my head out of the guillotine when I needed him and keep my record clean. The office staff, Jasmine and Hayley, were also pleasant to work with.”- Ryan
Why Choose Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger for Your OWI Defense?
When facing OWI charges in Iowa City or Davenport, having legal representation deeply rooted in the local landscape can be a significant advantage. At Keegan, Tindal & Jaeger, we not only understand the complexities of Iowa's OWI laws but also possess an intimate familiarity with the nuances of the legal systems within Johnson and Scott Counties, and the surrounding areas. Our commitment is to provide personalized and effective defense strategies tailored to the specific circumstances you face in our community.
Here's how our local presence and expertise benefit your case:
- Experienced Attorneys with Local Insight: Our team brings years of experience specifically in Iowa OWI and DUI defense. This experience translates into a refined understanding of the local DUI arrest procedures employed by the Iowa City Police Department, the Johnson County Sheriff's Office, the Davenport Police Department, and the Scott County Sheriff's Office. We know the protocols they follow, the common areas for stops (like around the University of Iowa campus in Iowa City or the entertainment districts in downtown Davenport), and the specific challenges that can arise in these local contexts.
- Comprehensive Case Evaluation Informed by Local Practice: We meticulously analyze every detail of your case, including police reports, evidence, and witness statements, with a keen awareness of how such evidence is typically presented and interpreted in Johnson and Scott County courts. Our thoroughness often uncovers oversights or errors in the prosecution's case that might be overlooked by those less familiar with the local judicial tendencies.
- Proven Track Record in Local Courts: Our successful history of defending clients against OWI charges within the Iowa City and Davenport areas speaks for itself. We strive for the best possible outcomes, whether through negotiation with local prosecutors or litigation in the Johnson County Courthouse or the Scott County Courthouse. Our commitment to success is underscored by our attention to detail and steadfast representation in the specific legal environments of our community.
- Supportive Client Relationships Built on Local Understanding: We prioritize open communication and are dedicated to keeping you informed and supported at every stage of your case, recognizing the stress that navigating the local legal system can bring. Our familiarity with the community allows us to provide context and understanding that resonates with our clients in Iowa City and Davenport.
Contact Our Iowa City DUI Defense Law Firm Today
Call now to arrange a free initial consultation in Cedar Rapids or Iowa City. We accept payments by cash, check, and credit cards.
Facing DUI charges in Iowa? Contact our Iowa City OWI lawyer by calling (319) 499-5524 now or contacting us online and get started on defending your rights.
We Defend Clients from DUI Charges In:
- Cedar Rapids
- Davenport
- Quad City
- Scott County
- All of Eastern Iowa
Why Choose us?
Aggressive, Skillful & Experienced Defense
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Over 50 Years of Combined Experience In Criminal Defense with an Emphasis on OWI's
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Trial Attorneys With Successful Track Records In The Courtroom
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We Offer Free Consultations No Matter How Severe The Charge
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Our Attorneys Are Well-Respected Throughout Eastern Iowa