DUI

Michigan DUI punishments are primarily dependent on how many times you’ve been caught drinking and driving.

For your first DUI offense, you can receive a maximum of 93 days in jail, 360 hours of volunteering, and up to $500 in fines. The government may also suspend your license.

For your second DUI offense, you may receive up to one year in jail, 360 hours of volunteering, and up to $1,000 in fines.

After you’ve been caught three times, your DUI will most likely become a felony. The court system believes three strikes are enough to warrant a felony trial. If you face a felony conviction, you need to understand the gravity of the situation. Not only may it result in a prison sentence, but it may also disqualify you from owning a firearm or working in specific industries.

On your third DUI, you may also face up to five years in jail, as well as a maximum of $5,000 in fines!

If you test positive for over a .17 BAC level on your first offense, you may receive up to 180 days of jail right away. The government may also suspend your license for up to a year. Those who have their licenses reinstated will most likely need a sobriety ignition lock installed in their vehicle.

Many people ask our firm if they’re within their rights to refuse a breath test. This is a complicated topic as refusing a breath test is not always the best option if you’re looking to avoid severe punishment. Understandably, you may be nervous about taking a breath test as they can often be inaccurate.

Michigan recently considered making refusing a breath test illegal. As of now, this has not occurred; you can still reject a breath test when you’re requested by police to submit to a breathalyzer.

Typically, an officer will conduct a field sobriety test on you, and if you fail, they’ll request a breath sample. If you refuse, they’ll arrest you and take you to the station for further testing.

If you continue to refuse at the station, the police can charge you with refusal to take a breath test. The first offense will result in an automatic year’s license suspension.

As you can see, while a lack of BAC reduces the evidence the police have, it still results in a significant punishment that may impair your ability to work.

This is another common question we receive from clients in Michigan. As breath tests and blood samples are known to be less than perfect, many residents in Michigan don’t feel confident a police officer’s sample will give them a fair assessment of their intoxication level.

Believe it or not, you are allowed to request an independent chemical test from police. But keep in mind, if your independent blood test comes back as over the limit, it may be used in court, regardless of whether you want it to or not.

If a police officer refuses your right to an independent blood test, then this may conflict with your legal rights. If a police officer refuses you the right to an independent blood test, make sure to get in touch with one of our Michigan OWI Lawyers today.

DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) are terms that often refer to the act of driving or operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. While both terms are used to describe similar offenses, OWI is more commonly used in Michigan. Regardless of the terminology, the consequences of these offenses can be severe. If you or someone you know is facing DUI or OWI charges in Michigan, it’s essential to contact a specialized Michigan OWI Lawyer. Patrick O’Keefe at O’Keefe Law in Lansing, Michigan has extensive experience in this area and can provide expert guidance.

An OWI Attorney can thoroughly examine the details of your arrest to identify any legal or procedural errors, challenge the validity of field sobriety tests, and question the reliability of breath or blood tests. By mounting a strong defense and presenting evidence in your favor, it’s possible to have charges reduced or even dismissed. Don’t take chances with your future; contact Patrick O’Keefe at O’Keefe Law in Lansing, Michigan for expert representation.

Michigan’s “Super Drunk” law pertains to individuals arrested with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.17 or higher, which is over twice the legal limit. If convicted under this law, penalties can be more severe, including longer jail time, heftier fines, and extended license suspension. If you’re facing charges under the “Super Drunk” law, it’s crucial to have an experienced Michigan DUI Lawyer. Patrick O’Keefe of O’Keefe Law can provide the expertise needed to navigate these complex charges.

In Michigan, most first-time and second-time OWI offenses are classified as misdemeanors. However, a third OWI offense within a lifetime can be charged as a felony. Felony charges come with stiffer penalties, including potential prison time. Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges, consulting with an OWI Attorney is essential. Patrick O’Keefe at O’Keefe Law is well-versed in Michigan OWI laws and can guide you through the legal complexities.

It’s advisable to contact a DUI Attorney as soon as possible after your arrest. The sooner you seek legal counsel, the better prepared you will be for any upcoming court dates or hearings. Immediate action can also help in preserving crucial evidence or witnesses. If you’re searching for a trusted Michigan DUI Lawyer, look no further than Patrick O’Keefe at O’Keefe Law. Serving clients throughout the state, he’s ready to provide the legal support you need.