OWI in Washington, D.C.

Operating While Impaired (OWI) is the easiest of the so-called “drunk driving” offenses for the prosecution to prove.  After all, the prosecution only needs to prove is that the defendant’s ability to operate a vehicle was impaired in any way by the consumption of “intoxicating liquor.”

At the same time, OWI also carries the lightest penalties. A first conviction carries a $200-$300 fine and a maximum 30-day sentence.  A second conviction within a 15-year time period carries a $300-$500 fine and either a 5-day to one year penalty, with the 5 days unable to be suspended, or at least 30 days of community service.  Finally, a third or subsequent offense within a 15 year period results in a $1000-$5000 fine and a 10-day to one year sentence, with a mandatory minimum of 10 days. or at least 60 days of community service.  D.C. Code 50-2201.05(b).