DUI/OWI Defense Attorney In Grand Ledge Serving Clients Across Michigan
DUI Charges Are Serious
In Michigan, operating a vehicle while impaired is treated as a serious offense. Charges such as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) or Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) can arise when a driver is alleged to have been affected by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances. These charges may carry significant consequences, including fines, license suspension, increased insurance costs, and in some cases jail time.
Because the potential penalties can affect many aspects of your life, it is important to take an OWI charge seriously. The outcome of a case may depend on factors such as the circumstances of the traffic stop, chemical testing procedures, and other evidence presented in court.
Joseph M. O’Connor represents individuals throughout Michigan who are facing DUI or OWI charges. By reviewing the details of your case and explaining the legal process, he can help you understand your options and the steps involved in addressing the charges. If you have been charged with DUI or OWI, contact O'Connor Law Office, PLLC to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.
Call O'Connor Law Office, PLLC at 517-300-0395 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
What is the Difference Between DUI and OWI?
In Michigan, the term Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) is the official legal charge used in most impaired driving cases. However, many people still use the term DUI (Driving Under the Influence) when referring to these types of offenses. While DUI is commonly used in conversation, Michigan law primarily refers to impaired driving as OWI.
An OWI charge may occur when a driver is found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or when alcohol or drugs have affected the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. The law can also apply if a person is under the influence of controlled substances or a combination of alcohol and drugs.
Michigan law also recognizes related offenses such as Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI), which may apply when a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle is noticeably affected even if their BAC is below the legal limit. Understanding the differences between these terms and how Michigan law defines impaired driving can be important when responding to a charge. Joseph M. O’Connor works with individuals across Michigan who have questions about DUI or OWI allegations and the legal process that follows.
Can I Fight the Results of a Breath or Field Sobriety Test?
Under Michigan law, drivers are subject to implied consent, which means that by operating a vehicle on Michigan roads, you agree to submit to certain chemical tests if a police officer has reasonable grounds to believe you are operating while intoxicated. These tests may include breath, blood, or urine testing to measure alcohol or the presence of drugs in your system.
During a traffic stop, an officer may also ask you to perform field sobriety tests, such as walking in a straight line, standing on one leg, or following instructions designed to assess coordination and attention. These tests, along with other observations, may be used as part of the officer’s investigation.
Refusing a chemical test after an arrest for OWI can carry consequences under Michigan’s implied consent law, including potential license suspension. However, every case is different, and the circumstances surrounding a traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing may all play a role in how a case proceeds. Joseph M. O’Connor works with individuals throughout Michigan who are facing DUI or OWI charges. By reviewing the details of the stop, the testing procedures used, and other evidence involved, he can help you understand the legal process and the options that may be available in your situation.
Is It Possible to Get Past DUI Convictions Expunged or Sealed?
Depending on the circumstances of your case and Michigan law, it may be possible to seek expungement (also called setting aside a conviction) for certain criminal offenses. Expungement can allow an eligible conviction to be removed from public view, which may make it easier to move forward with employment, housing, and other opportunities. Michigan law has expanded expungement eligibility in recent years, but not every offense qualifies. Whether a DUI or OWI-related conviction may be eligible depends on several factors, including the type of offense and your overall record. Reviewing your situation carefully is an important step in determining whether you may qualify.
Joseph M. O’Connor works with individuals throughout Michigan who are interested in learning more about expungement and whether their record may be eligible to be set aside. If you have questions about a past conviction or would like to explore your options, contact O'Connor Law Office, PLLC to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.
FAQs
What does OWI mean in Michigan?
OWI stands for Operating While Intoxicated. In Michigan, this charge generally applies when a person operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or when alcohol or drugs impair their ability to drive safely. OWI can also apply if a person is under the influence of controlled substances or a combination of drugs and alcohol.
What penalties can result from a DUI or OWI conviction in Michigan?
Penalties for DUI or OWI offenses in Michigan can vary depending on factors such as prior offenses and the circumstances of the arrest. Possible consequences may include fines, driver’s license suspension, probation, alcohol education programs, community service, and in some cases jail time.
Can I refuse a breath or chemical test in Michigan?
Michigan has an implied consent law, which means that drivers who are lawfully arrested for OWI are generally required to submit to a chemical test. Refusing the test can result in penalties such as license suspension and additional points on your driving record.
What is the difference between OWI and OWVI?
Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) generally involves a BAC of 0.08% or higher or clear impairment.
Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI) may apply when alcohol or drugs have affected a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle, even if their BAC is below the legal limit.
Should I speak with a lawyer after being charged with OWI?
If you have been charged with DUI or OWI, it can be helpful to understand your rights and the legal process involved. Speaking with an attorney may help you review the details of your case and determine what steps to take next.
Have Questions About DUI / OWI Defense??
If you have questions about a DUI or OWI charge, call O'Connor Law Office, PLLC at 517-300-0395 to speak with Joseph M. O’Connor. Calls are accepted 24/7, so you can reach out anytime to schedule a consultation and discuss your situation.