What are the charges regarding drunk driving violations or misdemeanors?
If you have been stopped for drinking and driving, you may be charged with 1 of 4 misdemeanor offenses. First, an OWI, which stands for Operating While Intoxicated. Second, an OWVI which stands for Operating While Visibly Impaired. Third, OWPD which stands for Operating With the Presence of Drugs, or fourth, Zero Tolerance, which applies to persons under 21 years of age. For all of these offenses, one must appear before a judge or magistrate to be arraigned.

In all drunk driving offenses, you have the right to an attorney and to a trial by a judge or jury. If you have been previously convicted of a drunk driving offense, the charge may be increased. Anyone convicted of the first 3 of these charges will automatically lose his or her driver’s license for a minimum of 90 days and have at least four points added to his or her driving record. Sometimes the court will issue a restricted driver's license allowing you to drive only for certain reasons such as going to work or school.

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1. What should I know about adult traffic misdemeanors?
2. What should I know as a minor about traffic misdemeanors?
3. What happens when I'm stopped by a police officer and I have been driving under the influence?
4. What are the charges regarding drunk driving violations or misdemeanors?
5. What happens regarding sentencing and other consequences, if I am convicted of drunk driving?