We have mentioned the value of collaterally attacking a prior conviction. We make an effort to do that whenever we can. In this case, the client was charged with a felony level OWI. THe case wasn't particularly strong on the facts, however, the client had 2 uncounseled prior convictions. We were able to locate the information on those prior charges and challenged the prior convictions in circuit court. After the hearing, the state conceded that they could not defend the prior convictions and agreed to amend the charge to a 1st offense.
Instead of a felony level convictions, client received a fine of $150 and was not convicted of any crime.