How Long Will I Go to Jail for a DUI in Michigan?

The use of drugs and alcohol significantly diminishes an individual’s senses, reaction time, and ability to make rational decisions, hence why operating a motor vehicle while under the influence is illegal. The penalties for a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) conviction can be significant depending on the details of the situation and the individual’s criminal history. If you’re wondering how long you may be sentenced to jail for a DUI in Michigan, continue reading and reach out to an experienced Marquette DUI lawyer today.

What is a DUI?

DUI is the criminal offense of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Michigan law actually refers to this crime as an OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). Under Michigan law, operating while intoxicated is defined as any of the following.

• The person is under the influence of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance or a combination of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance
• The person has an alcohol content of 0.08 grams or more per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath, or per 67 milliliters of urine or, beginning 5 years after the state treasurer publishes a certification under subsection (28), the person has an alcohol content of 0.10 grams or more per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath, or per 67 milliliters of urine
• The person has an alcohol content of 0.17 grams or more per 100 milliliters of blood, per 210 liters of breath, or per 67 milliliters of urine

Getting behind the wheel while any of the above is true is a criminal offense that can result in significant penalties.

How Long Will I Go to Jail for a DUI in MI?

The amount of time you are sentenced to jail for a DUI in Michigan will vary based on the unique circumstances of your situation. Various factors can influence your penalties, including how high your BAC was at the time of the offense, whether any minor passengers were present, whether you caused an accident or injury, whether you have a criminal history, and more. According to Michigan Vehicle Code 257.625, the standard sentencing guidelines for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated are as follows.

• If it was a general first offense: Up to 93 days of imprisonment
• If the offense involved a passenger under the age of 16: Up to 1 year of imprisonment
• If the offense occurs within 7 years of a prior conviction: Up to 5 years of imprisonment
• If the offense is the individual’s third conviction: Up to 5 years of imprisonment
• If the offense occurs with an alcohol content of 0.17% or more: Up to 10 years of imprisonment
• If the offense causes the serious impairment of a body function of another person: Up to 5 years of imprisonment
• If the offense causes the death of another person: Up to 15 years of imprisonment

Jail or prison time is just one of many penalties you can face for driving under the influence in Michigan. To learn more and protect yourself during your case, work with a skilled defense attorney at Berger Law.