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Challenging an OWI charge as a college student

On Behalf of | May 31, 2022 | Drunk Driving

There is never a good time to get an OWI, but it is especially problematic for college students. Typically, students do not have a professional reputation or strong resume after an OWI arrest, so a conviction gets you off to a bad start in your professional life.

Your path forward is more challenging with an OWI on your record, but it is best to understand the reality, so you have a better chance of moving forward. Continue reading to learn more about the punishments for OWIs in Iowa and how you might challenge the charges.

Penalties for underage OWIs

Iowa has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking. According to Iowa legislation, drivers under the age of 21 with a BAC of .02 face a license suspension of 60 days. If you are an Iowa student, you also face disciplinary measures from the school. According to the University of Iowa’s official website, OWI charges result in the notification of the parents or guardians of students under 21. If you have a scholarship, there is a chance of losing it.

Mistakes made during the arrest

A successful OWI defense starts with identifying mistakes made during the arrest. Police often make mistakes, and after a period of discovery, you may discover they used illegal or overly aggressive methods. You may find out the breath test is not admissible, or the police did not read your rights.

Students under arrest on suspicion of an OWI might feel like their lives are over. However, you still have a chance to fight your charges, so do not give up and plead guilty.