In Wisconsin, what court handles first offenses for OWI?

In Wisconsin, first offenses for OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) are handled by the Municipal Court. This is because OWI first offenses in Wisconsin are typically treated as civil infractions rather than criminal violations, leading them to be processed in municipal rather than circuit or higher-level courts that handle more serious criminal cases.

Municipal Courts in Wisconsin primarily deal with violations of city ordinances and traffic offenses, which includes first-time OWI offenses. When a person is charged with a first OWI, it is generally classified as a civil infraction, allowing for fines and other penalties without the same level of criminal proceedings applicable to subsequent offenses or more severe charges.

Circuit Courts, on the other hand, handle a broader range of criminal cases, including felonies and serious misdemeanors. Family Courts deal with issues such as divorce and child custody, while Traffic Courts may handle specific types of traffic offenses but do not typically oversee OWI cases. The designation of first offense OWI cases to Municipal Courts reflects Wisconsin's approach to managing minor alcohol-related offenses while reserving more serious legal actions for higher courts.