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Criminal, OWI, Traffic, and Ordinance Violations
Focused Defense. Practical Strategy. Clear Fees.
If you’re facing a criminal charge, an OWI, traffic tickets, or a municipal citation, quick, informed action matters. Attorney Jacob R. Gardner pairs courtroom experience with a firm problem‑solving approach—testing the evidence, enforcing your rights, aiming for justice, and pursuing the best available outcome across Green, Dane, Rock, Lafayette, Grant, and Iowa Counties.
Criminal Defense
Matters Handled:
- Misdemeanors and selected felonies
- Battery, disorderly conduct, theft, property crimes
- Drug possession and related offenses
- Pre‑charge investigations, warrants, and probation issues
Defense Approach:
- Evidence review: Police reports, video/body‑cam, lab results, witness statements
- Constitutional issues: Stops, searches, statements, and identification
- Leverage: Strategic motions, negotiation, diversion or deferred prosecution when available
- Resolution: Dismissal, charge reductions, or trial where necessary
Goals: Protect your record, reduce penalties, and minimize collateral consequences (employment, licensing, immigration).
OWI Defense
OWI timelines move fast and penalties can escalate. Early advice protects your license and options. Jacob has prosecuted and defended OWIs and other alcohol and other drug related traffic offenses. Jacob has seen these cases from every angle—how charging decisions are made, what evidence persuades (or fails), and where procedural mistakes happen. That perspective helps spot leverage and build the a thoughtful defense.
Key Issues We Review:
- Basis for the traffic stop and arrest
- Field sobriety testing procedures and reliability
- Chemical tests (breath/blood), implied‑consent notices, refusals
- Prior convictions and penalty structure
Relief We Pursue:
- Administrative and court remedies to protect driving privileges where possible
- Suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence
- Negotiated reductions or alternative resolutions, informed by what prosecutors weigh in charging and plea decisions
What to Do Now:
- Note deadlines on any paperwork; bring it to your consultation.
- Do not discuss the case with others; seek legal guidance first.
Traffic Tickets & Ordinance Violations
Even “minor” citations can affect your license, insurance, employment, or housing.
Common Matters:
- Speeding and serious moving violations
- Accidents, inattentive driving, failure to yield
- Municipal ordinance citations (noise, property, animal, alcohol)
How We Help:
- Evaluate points, fines, and driver history
- Seek amendments to reduce points or impact when appropriate
- Appear on your behalf when permitted by court rules
FAQs
Should I talk to police or the prosecutor? No—exercise your right to remain silent and to counsel. Let a dependable lawyer communicate for you.
Will I have to go to court? Sometimes the attorney can appear for you, depending on the charge and local rules. It is important to discuss clear expectations on this with your lawyer.
Can an OWI or ticket be reduced? Possibly. Outcomes depend on the facts, record, and county practices. We discuss every viable option with our clients.
What’s diversion or deferred prosecution? Programs that might lead to dismissals or reductions if you complete conditions. Availability varies by county and charge.
How soon should I hire a lawyer? Immediately. Early action preserves defenses and license privileges.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Contact our office to discuss your specific situation.