Detroit DUI / OWI Defense Lawyer

Aside from the legal consequences, being charged with a DUI can have a profound emotional impact. You may easily feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for protection. As experienced criminal defense attorneys, we acknowledge the profound impact of an OWI charge. That is why we offer compassionate legal assistance to all our clients.

If you caused a car accident while intoxicated, the DUI/OWI defense attorneys in Detroit, MI, will fight for your future. Contact White Law PLLC today to consult our team of Detroit criminal defense attorneys about your legal options.

Michigan Laws on Drunk Driving

While many people use the term driving under the influence (DUI) when referring to drunk driving, the official term in Michigan is operating while intoxicated (OWI). However, both of these terms are used to describe the same action.

Under Michigan law, driving while intoxicated is a criminal offense. You could face criminal charges if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08 or more. However, stricter laws apply to motorists under 21; in this case, the legal limit is a BAC of .02.

OWI and OWVI Laws

Michigan instituted fairly complex laws for drunk driving. As criminal defense lawyers serving Michigan, our mission is to help all our clients understand the laws that impact their cases. We will explain your rights and review your legal options. While we handle the legal aspects of your case, you still take an active part in the process and have the final say in case decisions.

To better understand the state drunk driving laws, it helps to talk about operating while impaired (OWI) and operating while visibly impaired (OWVI). While the latter is generally less serious, it can still lead to significant legal consequences that have a long-term impact on your life.

An OWI offense is typically regarded as the more severe and can lead to more serious penalties. You may face an OWI charge if you:

• Drive while under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs
• Operate a car with a BAC that is over the legal limit (.08 or more)
• Hold illegal drugs while driving

In Michigan, you can be charged with an OWVI if you are operating a vehicle while under the influence to the extent that it visibly impairs your ability to drive safely. The impairment must be observable or evident to an ordinary and prudent person.

Unlike an OWI charge, an OWVI charge does not depend on a specific BAC level. If you exhibit signs of impairment, such as slurred speech, erratic driving, or impaired coordination, law enforcement may charge you with an OWVI offense in Michigan.

Penalties You May Face for Drunk Driving in Michigan

The penalties for an OWI charge depend on a series of factors, including your BAC, the severity of the offense, and if you have any prior offenses. For example, you will likely face harsher penalties if your BAC is .17 or higher.

Since your penalties depend highly on your circumstances, consider seeking legal protection as soon as possible. Your DUI/OWI defense lawyer in Detroit, MI, will review the details of your charge and ensure your rights are protected.

Penalties for a First Offense

For a first offense of OWI in Michigan, you can expect to face the following penalties:

• Fines typically range from $100 to $500. However, if your BAC was .17 or higher, the range is between $200 and $700. If you were charged with OWVI, you could expect lower fines, somewhere between $100-$300.
• Jail time of up to 93 days or 180 days if the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .17 or higher.
• Community service of up to 360 hours may also be required.
• Vehicle forfeiture or car immobilization for up to 180 days.

Penalties for a Second Offense

When facing a second offense of DUI in Michigan, the potential penalties become more severe:

• Fines between $200-$1,000
• Jail time between five days and a year
• Community service between 30-90 days
• Vehicle immobilization for 90 to 180 days, if not forfeited

Penalties for a Third Offense

When confronted with a third offense of OWI in Michigan, the penalties escalate significantly:

• Fines between $500-$5,000
• Jail time ranges between one to five years; however, if community service is mandated, the jail time ranges between 30 days and one year
• Community service of 60 to 180 days
• Vehicle immobilization for one to three years, if not forfeited

Why Work With Detroit DUI/OWI Defense Attorneys

Facing the legal consequences of an OWI charge can become overwhelming, especially since these can significantly impact various aspects of your life. It can tarnish your reputation, strain personal relationships, and create difficulties securing employment opportunities, especially in fields requiring a clean driving record.

By working with a legal professional, you can rest assured that your rights will be protected. A lawyer from our legal team can guide you through the legal procedures and fight for your future.

Our Detroit DUI/OWI defense lawyers will:

• Evaluate the case: Thoroughly evaluate your case, examining all the evidence, police reports, and expert witness statements. We can identify potential weaknesses or errors in the prosecution’s case and develop a strong defense strategy.
• Negotiate on your behalf: Our DUI defense attorneys are skilled in negotiating with prosecutors. They can advocate for reduced charges or penalties, such as a plea bargain or alternative sentencing options, depending on the circumstances of your case.
• Minimize penalties: If a conviction is unavoidable, a skilled attorney can work to minimize the penalties you face. We can advocate for reduced fines and shorter license suspensions or help you explore options for expungement or record sealing.
• Represent you in court: If your case goes to trial, your DUI defense attorney will provide skilled courtroom representation. We will present a compelling defense, cross-examine witnesses, and challenge the prosecution’s evidence to increase your chances of a favorable outcome.

Hiring a Detroit DUI defense attorney gives you peace of mind during a stressful and uncertain time. Knowing you have a knowledgeable and dedicated advocate can alleviate some of the anxiety associated with a DUI charge and help you make informed decisions about your case.

Call White Law PLLC for Legal Assistance With DUI/OWI Defense in Detroit

If you face DUI/OWI charges, seek immediate legal counsel. At White Law PLLC, we understand that the impact of a DUI charge goes beyond the legal consequences and can have far-reaching implications on multiple aspects of your life.

Our team of skilled attorneys can provide the guidance and representation you need to navigate the legal system and fight for your rights. Don’t face these charges alone. Call us today to discuss your case.