Drunk Driving Lawyer in Ypsilanti & Ann Arbor MI,
In Michigan, there are several different ways you can get in trouble for drunk driving. Most people believe that if you are caught driving with a blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08 or higher, that you will be charged with drunk driving also known as Operating while Intoxicated. This is true, but there is much more to the situation. In Michigan if you are caught driving with a BAC of at least .02 but less than .08 you can still be charged with impaired driving. This is still a drunk driving charge. Another charge that people don’t really think about in Michigan is a High BAC charge, which is when a person is operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of .17 or higher. Its also called Super Drunk Driving in Michigan. These are all serious charges, but some are more severe than others. If you’re searching for a trusted drunk driving lawyer in Ypsilanti, MI, our firm has handled hundreds of such cases with a strong local reputation.
So what is regular drunk driving in Michigan?
Regular drunk driving is when someone operates a motor vehicle with a BAC of at least .08, but less than .17. This is what many people refer to as DUI or OWI. In Michigan, its referred to as OWI or Operating While Intoxicated. Many clients also find us by searching drunk driving lawyer near me, as we are known for aggressive defense strategies and personalized attention.
What is the possible punishment for OWI in Michigan?
A first offense for OWI in Michigan is a misdemeanor crime with a possible maximum 93-day jail sentence. Most people don’t go to jail on a first offense if there wasn’t an accident or injury. This of course will depend in which county you are charged and the judge you are in front of. Additional possible repercussions include up to 360 hours of community service, 30 day license suspension with 150 days of restricted license, 6 points on your driving record, vehicle immobilization, ignition interlock device, and drivers responsibility fees from Michigan’s Secretary of State. Whether you’re facing a first offense or a repeat charge, hiring a qualified DUI attorney in Ann Arbor, MI, can make all the difference in minimizing penalties. Our team of experienced DUI attorneys will help you understand every option and potential outcome.
What are some possible defenses to drunk driving in Michigan?
The defenses will depend on the circumstances, which is why you want an experienced drunk driving attorney reviewing your case. Possible defenses are that the police didn’t have a good reason to stop your car, that there was no probable cause to arrest you based on the preliminary breath test (PBT) and road side tests, that the police didn’t follow the rules regarding a PBT, among other things that vary based on what happened during the stop. If you’ve been charged under the state’s enhanced BAC laws, you need a super drunk driving attorney in Ann Arbor, MI, who understands the complex penalties and can challenge improper procedures.
When charged with elevated blood alcohol content, a seasoned high BAC DWI attorney can examine the testing methods and fight for dismissal or reduction.
Can you get my case dismissed?
Maybe, this is something that will depend on your individual circumstances. What is important is what you said to the police, the video from the police car, the datamaster results, why they stopped you, witness recollections, the police procedures, your story, the amount of time that passed, among other things. When I evaluate your case, I make sure to let you know all of your options. I will not sugarcoat things for you because you need to know the possible outcomes and where the case is going. It is possible to get a case dismissed or win at trial. As a well-reviewed drunk driving lawyer, I’ve helped many clients get charges reduced or dropped entirely based on these exact types of factors. If you’re urgently looking for a drunk driving lawyer near me, reach out today for an honest, strategic review of your case.
If you’ve been charged with drunk driving, DUI, Operating While Intoxication, OUI, Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI), High BAC (Super Drunk Driving) in Washtenaw, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, or Wayne Counties, call me for a free consultation. We are proud to be a top-rated super drunk driving attorney in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, MI, with proven results in some of the toughest High BAC cases across southeastern Michigan. Contact a knowledgeable high BAC DWI attorney today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I’m charged with drunk driving?
How can a DUI attorney help me avoid jail time?
A skilled DUI attorney negotiates with prosecutors, challenges breathalyzer results, and may obtain reduced charges or alternative sentencing to minimize or avoid incarceration.
Can a High BAC DWI attorney get my charges reduced?
Yes. At Hermanowski Law, a High BAC DWI attorney examines calibration logs, expert testimony, and procedural errors to seek charge reductions or alternative resolutions.
What factors affect my DUI sentencing?
Prior offenses, BAC level, presence of minors, accident involvement, and refusal to test all influence fines, jail time, and probation terms.
How long will a DUI stay on my driving record?
A DUI conviction typically remains on your driving record for 7 years; a High BAC DWI can have a longer impact on insurance and employment.
