Though commonly referred to as DUI, or Driving Under the Influence, a drunk driving charge in Michigan is technically called OWI, or Operating While Intoxicated. The penalties you will face if convicted of OWI are extremely serious, which is why it is important to contact a top Grand Rapids DUI defense lawyer right away if you have been charged with or accused of Operating While Intoxicated. A drunk driving conviction could drastically affect your life, and depending on the details of your case you could face severe punishment including a jail sentence, a criminal record, significant fines, license suspension or revocation, and other negative effects.
Grabel & Associates has the experience needed to help clients in Grand Rapids and statewide achieve the best possible case results in OWI cases, and we know what it takes to obtain case dismissals, lessened sentences, and favorable plea bargains. Our firm has established a reputation as one of the best for Grand Rapids DUI defense, and for over 10 years we have been recognized as a dominant force in courts throughout the state. No matter what the specifics of your case, our team is available 24/7 to provide you with a free consultation and will begin providing you with valuable guidance concerning the best next steps to take in your case. Contact us by phone or online now to speak to an experienced case analyst and take control of your Grand Rapids OWI case.
The legal blood alcohol limit in Michigan is 0.08% for persons with a standard driver’s license, 0.04% for those driving on a commercial license, and 0.02% for persons under the age of 21. Even if your BAC is not over the limit, however, you can be charged with drunk driving if police determine your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely was impaired, as determined by traffic violations, roadside sobriety testing, and BAC evidence combined.
If charged with drunk driving in Michigan, you will face jail time, fines, license suspension, and more even for a first offense. Secondary offenses or drunk driving cases involving particular circumstances, such as having a child in the vehicle or causing injury, can lead to even more severe punishment. Contact an attorney now to find out what the specific charges you may face are and how to fight back against OWI conviction.
The criminal penalties for an OWI conviction in Grand Rapids, as outlined in the Michigan Vehicle Code, are as follows:
First Offense (misdemeanor): Up to 93 days jail time, fine of up to $500, license suspension (up to 6 months), and possible ignition interlock installation.
Second Offense (misdemeanor): Between 5 days and 1 year in jail, a fine of between $200 and $1,000, license suspension or revocation (minimum of 1 year), IID installation required.
Third Offense (felony): Between 30 days to 1 year in jail, a fine of $200 to $1,000, minimum 1 year license revocation/suspension, IID installation required.
Refusal to take BAC test: Up to 1 year license suspension for first offense, 2 year suspension for second offense, and 5 year suspension for third offense. OWI conviction also possible even if you do not submit to a BAC test, and additional penalties can be added to your sentence.
Other circumstances can lead to greatly enhanced penalties, so contact a lawyer now to find out more about how Michigan law and the specific details of your case will interact.
If you have already been accused of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated, there is a chance you could face serious consequences. The best way to fight back against potentially life-changing penalties is to contact an attorney as soon as you can, and begin developing a unique defense approach tailored to your legal needs and goals. Grabel & Associates is regarded as a top firm because we are dedicated to achieving the best case results for clients, and commit to fully understanding every case we take and providing exceptional, individualized defense throughout every stage of the process. Our proven results demonstrate why our clients to deliver in even the most difficult situations trust us, and we are available now to begin applying the same tested strategies to your OWI case.
To speak with a lawyer now, call 1-800-342-7896 or contact us online to set up a free initial case consultation. We are always available to begin working with you and will seek to answer any questions you may have about your specific case and how our team can help you avoid wrongful conviction or avoidable penalties. Under the direction of trial lawyer Scott Grabel, we will do all we can to protect your rights and fight to defend your freedom. Fight back with Grabel & Associates, we are available 24/7 by phone and online to take your case.