Krische & Moertel LLCEau Claire Criminal Defense Lawyers | OWI & Drug Crimes Attorneys2026-07-21T19:16:17Zhttps://www.eauclaireattorney.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1500729/2023/04/cropped-favicon-1-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Can you bring marijuana into Wisconsin from Michigan?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479662026-07-21T19:16:17Z2026-07-21T19:16:17ZWisconsin has not yet legalized recreational marijuana. However, nearby Michigan already has. If you live in northern Wisconsin, for example, you could drive over the border into the Upper Peninsula and find plenty of fully legal dispensaries where those who are at least 21 years old can buy marijuana products.As a Wisconsin resident, then, you may find yourself tempted to legally purchase these products in Michigan and then simply drive back home to Wisconsin. Some people even think this makes it legal, just because the initial purchase was legal. But there are actually some significant problems that could lead to arrest and drug charges.
You are still violating Wisconsin laws
To begin with, even though you legally purchased those products in Michigan, you are still in violation of Wisconsin law if you possess them while in the state.Imagine that police officers pull your car over and find marijuana products in the center console. You may have a receipt showing that you bought them legally in Michigan, but that does not change the fact that the officers could arrest you for marijuana possession.
You are also violating federal law
Moreover, marijuana is still illegal at the federal level. This matters because crossing state lines means the federal government has jurisdiction. Driving from Michigan into Wisconsin with marijuana on your person is then a federal crime, even if it would have been legal for you to use those products had you remained in Michigan the entire time.People sometimes make mistakes regarding recreational marijuana, and it can lead to serious charges. If you find yourself in this position, it is imperative that you know about all of your legal defense options.
]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[What happens to your car insurance after an OWI?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479652026-07-15T09:49:02Z2026-07-16T05:01:22ZWhat is an SR-22 certificate?
An SR-22 is a certificate your insurer submits to the Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to prove that you carry the required liability coverage. You might need an SR-22 to restore your driving privileges after a revocation. The DMV also requires one when you apply for an occupational license after a suspension or revocation.
To obtain an SR-22, contact an insurer licensed to do business in Wisconsin. The insurer sends the filing to the DMV.
You do not need an SR-22 to reinstate your regular driver's license after a standard first-offense OWI revocation. However, you must file an SR-22 to obtain an occupational license during your revocation period.
If you are a first offender, you only need to maintain the certificate while your temporary occupational license is active. If you’re a repeat offender, you need to keep this certificate on file for three years from your reinstatement eligibility date.
A lapsed or canceled policy may lead to another suspension. You need to pay premiums on time and confirm that the filing stays active.
How much might your rates increase?
An OWI conviction often causes a sharp rate increase. Depending on your insurer and overall risk profile, car insurance premiums may rise by an average of 37% to 65% following a first-time OWI conviction. Severe or repeat offenses can trigger significantly higher risk ratings.
The exact change depends on how each company rates risk, and quotes may vary widely. Insurers typically maintain these higher rates for three to five years. Comparing several carriers may help you find a lower rate for similar coverage.
Planning for the added cost
After an OWI, you may need to review your DMV requirements, track all filing dates and avoid any break in coverage. Shopping among several insurers might reduce the financial strain, even when every quote is higher than before. A clear grasp of OWI rules helps you prepare for license limits, reinstatement steps and higher insurance costs.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[What should parents know if their minor child is charged with a crime?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479642026-07-14T12:52:08Z2026-07-14T12:52:08Zjuvenile justice system is different than the adult criminal justice system. Because of this, parents should take the time to understand what moving through the case with their child will involve, as some of the distinctions between the juvenile and adults systems can be surprising.
Purpose of the juvenile justice system
Juvenile courts focus on rehabilitation and accountability. They also work to ensure that the public will remain safe. These courts use a variety of options, such as counseling, diversion, restitution, probation and community service to pursue these goals. It’s possible that the court will order a juvenile to be placed into juvenile detention or that a child will be otherwise removed from their home.
The exact requirements and services set by the juvenile court depend on several factors. The court will consider the child’s age and charge. It may also consider the family situation, school record and prior history with the juvenile court.
Missteps can be catastrophic
Parents whose children are facing criminal charges shouldn’t assume that charges will go away because the minor is young. Instead, the parents should ensure the juvenile’s rights are being respected as they navigate the unique intricacies of the juvenile justice system.
A juvenile charge can be stressful for a minor, as well as their parents. It’s critical that parents work with a skilled criminal defense attorney given all that is at stake.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Are you at risk of an OWI during the Fourth of July holiday?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479632026-06-28T03:03:27Z2026-06-28T03:03:27ZUnlike some other states, there are no sobriety checkpoints allowed during the upcoming Fourth of July celebrations (or at other times). The interpretation of the state of Wisconsin’s constitution is more liberal than the federal Fourth Amendment and requires police to have “reasonable suspicion” of violations or crimes occurring before initiating traffic stops.Here’s why there are increased arrests for operating while intoxicated (OWI) during this time:
Increased patrols are linked to extra funding
In order to make the roads and highways safer during times of increased traffic, the federal government frequently issues grants to state and local law enforcement agencies. The uptick in funding allows extra patrols in areas where operating while intoxicated is suspected.Police are aware that there tends to be a “drinking culture” surrounding the Fourth of July. In fact, it is considered one of the most dangerous holidays in the year for drunk-driving accidents. As such, the authorities are scrutinizing drivers very closely. Even small traffic mistakes can be seen as signs that a driver is impaired and justify a stop and investigation.
Your defense begins with the traffic stop
The best way to avoid an OWI is to never drive while impaired. But if you wind up stopped on suspicion of OWI, be mindful that your actions and words are being recorded as evidence for any future court proceedings. It’s always in your best interest to be polite and cooperative, without answering questions about where you have been or what you have been doing (or drinking). Refusing to answer police questioning is legal, whereas lying to police is a crime. Exert the right to be questioned only in the presence of your defense counsel.If you are charged with OWI, experienced legal guidance can help you mount a solid defense.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Can you lose your job over a marijuana arrest?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479612026-06-14T18:30:56Z2026-06-14T18:30:56ZArrest vs. conviction
Wisconsin is considered an “at-will” employment state, meaning an employer can terminate an employee for any reason, provided the reason is not prohibited by law (such as protected class status or retaliation). In some situations, an employer may decide to terminate an employee after learning of a marijuana arrest, especially if there are concerns about workplace safety, company policies or the employee’s ability to perform their job duties.
Wisconsin has protections for arrest records. The law generally prohibits employers from discriminating against applicants or employees just because they have been arrested.
There are exceptions based on the circumstances surrounding the arrest and on whether they are related to the individual’s job responsibilities. For example, if the arrest is for conduct that raises concerns about the employee’s compliance with workplace policies, the employer may have grounds to take action.
However, an arrest is not the same as a conviction. Being arrested does not mean you have been found guilty of a crime. A conviction, on the other hand, can create serious employment consequences, and employers may consider that when making employment decisions, if the offense can affect their job duties.
Individuals with professional licenses, such as health care workers, educators and commercial drivers, may face additional challenges after an arrest or conviction. They may be required to disclose such information to the licensing board, which may conduct an independent review to determine if disciplinary action is appropriate.
If you have been arrested for a marijuana-related offense, it’s crucial to act quickly. Contact a legal representative who can evaluate the charges, identify potential defenses and work toward minimizing the impact on your employment and professional career.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Could a criminal charge disrupt your study abroad plans?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479602026-06-01T15:04:54Z2026-06-01T15:04:54ZSchool policies may play a role
Your college or university may look at more than your grades when deciding whether you can participate in a study abroad program. Student conduct records and pending disciplinary matters may also become part of the review process. Schools may review factors such as:
A criminal case and a university disciplinary proceeding are separate matters. Even if your criminal case has not reached a final outcome, your school may still decide whether you meet the requirements for a study abroad program.
International travel requirements can vary
The country you plan to visit may also have rules that affect your ability to travel. Some countries ask applicants about criminal history during the visa process. Others focus on convictions rather than arrests or pending charges.
The difference between an arrest, a charge and a conviction can become important because countries do not all use the same standards. In addition, many study abroad programs work with outside organizations that may apply their own eligibility requirements.
Beyond the immediate consequences
Your eligibility for a study abroad program may depend on more than the outcome of a criminal case. School policies, program requirements and international travel rules can all play a role in what opportunities remain available.
When you face a criminal charge, your attention may focus on court dates, possible penalties or school discipline. Study abroad programs, internships and certain career opportunities may also involve conduct reviews or eligibility requirements. Because of this, a criminal charge may affect plans that extend beyond your current semester. The effect can vary based on the facts of your case and the policies of the institutions involved.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Aggravating factors that can increase OWI penalties in Wisconsin]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479592026-06-01T02:47:15Z2026-06-01T02:47:15ZBAC levels far exceeding the legal limit
If your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is considerably higher than the legal limit (0.08%), courts treat that as an aggravating circumstance, and it can enhance the ensuing penalties. For instance, a BAC of between 0.17% to 0.199% doubles the applicable fines, while a reading of 0.2% and 0.249% triples them.
Having a child passenger in the car
Your sentence may be enhanced if you had a minor passenger (under 16 years old) at the time due to the risk posed to their safety. Courts and prosecutors respond to child endangerment allegations very aggressively. Even a first-time OWI offense becomes dramatically more serious the moment a minor was present.
Prior OWI convictions
Wisconsin's OWI penalty structure escalates sharply with each conviction, regardless of how long ago it was. A second or third OWI conviction brings mandatory minimum jail time among other penalties. The fourth offense and any that follow may trigger felony-level charges, with significantly harsher penalties.
Legal guidance is essential
An OWI charge is serious on its own. Add in aggravating factors, and the stakes quickly increase. It’s not the kind of situation to navigate alone, and the earlier you seek legal support, the better positioned you are to respond effectively. An experienced legal professional can assess the specific factors in your case, challenge evidence where grounds exist and work to protect your rights at every stage of the process.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Does peer pressure affect college student crime rates?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479582026-05-15T19:19:07Z2026-05-15T19:18:09ZYes, peer pressure has a significant impact on many college student crimes. Young people often have an inherent drive to fit into their social environment. They may engage in activities around their peers that they would never do on their own.
One example is alcohol use. Technically, no one under 21 can legally drink, in most cases. Even so, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that 11% of alcohol consumption in the United States is carried out by those who are underage. When teenagers were asked if they had ever had alcohol before they turned 18, 60% of them admitted that they had.
Why do they engage in this behavior?
Many teenagers would never drink at home, so their parents are unaware that they have even considered it. But if they are out with friends, they may try to drink just to fit into the group. They do not want to stand out or be different.They may also be naturally curious. Many teenagers see their parents drink at home, so they do not think it is a big deal. Alcohol is also relatively easy to obtain.In some cases, young people can even develop alcohol use disorders. These are more common in those who start drinking at a young age. By the time someone is a young college student, if they have already been drinking for years, a budding addiction could play a role and cause them to break the law by possessing or consuming alcohol while underage.
Addressing alcohol-related charges
If you have a college student who is facing charges for illegal purchases, furnishing alcohol to other minors, being in possession while underage or even driving while under the influence, it is crucial that you know about all of your legal defense options to protect that child’s future.
]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Lying when seeking medication can lead to criminal charges]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479572026-04-29T14:51:58Z2026-04-29T14:51:58ZPatients must provide accurate information
State law requires that patients provide accurate and thorough information to healthcare providers, especially in cases where they receive medication as treatment. Patients should not fabricate or exaggerate symptoms to convince a doctor to prescribe them a specific medication.
They also cannot lie about their current treatment arrangements. Patients have an obligation to disclose what medications they currently take and if they are under the care of another physician.
Especially in scenarios where a patient has multiple prescriptions for the same drug from different doctors, they could end up facing criminal charges due to doctor shopping and fraudulent misrepresentation to a health care provider. Patients who are unaware of the law might make mistakes that put them at risk of criminal charges with life-altering consequences.
Those accused of drug offenses related to prescription medications can potentially minimize the consequences they’re facing by working with a defense attorney to respond to the charges effectively. Learning about what may justify drug charges can help people mount a reasonable defense.]]>On Behalf of Krische & Moertel LLC<![CDATA[Is the recreational use of marijuana legal in Wisconsin?]]>https://www.eauclaireattorney.com/?p=479562026-04-17T09:12:38Z2026-04-17T09:11:36ZThe legality of marijuana in Wisconsin
Despite recent national trends, recreational marijuana remains strictly illegal in Wisconsin. The state has not passed laws to allow adult use, and it currently lacks a medical cannabis program for patients.
While lawmakers continue to introduce bills to launch recreational and medical marijuana programs, these efforts have not yet succeeded in changing the law. This means that if you are caught with cannabis, you are breaking the law. Regardless of your reasons for use, the state continues to treat the possession of marijuana as a serious offense.
The legal consequences of marijuana possession
Wisconsin enforces strict penalties for possessing even small amounts of cannabis. If you are a college student, these legal consequences often trigger secondary disciplinary actions from your school that can be just as damaging.
If authorities arrest you with any amount of marijuana for the first time, you face a misdemeanor charge. This carries a penalty of up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
The penalties escalate if you have a prior conviction. A second offense is a Class I felony, which can result in a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to 3.5 years. In addition to these fines and jail time, your university may also initiate conduct hearings that could lead to suspension.
Protect yourself by staying informed
Staying informed about Wisconsin's specific statutes is crucial to safeguard your collegiate career. It is not recommended to rely on what you know is legal in other states or even what you see happening in other parts of the country. Understanding the risks associated with possession helps you make choices that keep your record clean.]]>