39520 Woodward Ave #230, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304
DUI/OWI

DUI/OWI Defense Lawyer in Oakland County
Over 28 years experience, call 248-645-1400 for a consultation.
According to Michigan law, driving under the influence (DUI) is considered a misdemeanor for both first and second offenses. DUI cases are complex and not to be taken lightly as driving under the influence is among the most serious driving-related offenses and will have a significant impact on the status of your license. If you have been arrested for drunk driving, seek legal counsel immediately for help navigating your case.
Implied Consent, OWVI, OWI & DUI Charges
Michigan is an “implied consent” state. In plain terms, this means that by driving on the road within the state, a driver has automatically agreed to take a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) or drug test at the request of a law enforcement officer. Failure to comply with the request can result in suspension of the defendant’s driver’s license.
Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) refers to a defendant driving with a BAC of .08 or greater. OWI and DUI are essentially the same charge as they both refer to drivers operating vehicles under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. However, in the state of Michigan, persons charged for operating a vehicle under the influence are charged with OWI.
Penalties of OWI/DUI Convictions
Penalties for OWI/DUI can include:
- Loss of driver’s license
- Forfeiture of the driver’s vehicle
- Fines
- Jail or prison time
- Community service
The exact penalty is determined by the judge based on a review of the facts of the case, particularly whether the defendant has prior offenses. With so much at stake, I strongly urge you to enlist in the help of a trusted criminal defense lawyer.