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

Drunk driving is a serious offense. If an intoxicated individual gets behind the wheel they could end up causing extensive property damage and seriously injuring themselves or others. In 2022 over 13,500 people died in alcohol-related car crashes in the United States. Because of the severity of the crime, the associated penalties can be harsh. After a third DUI, or OWI as they are referred to in Michigan, individuals will face jail time, hefty fines, and more. Having a skilled defense attorney on your side is crucial during your intoxicated driving case. Reach out to a Marquette DUI lawyer today to obtain legal representation.

What Are the Penalties for a Third DUI in MI?

As established, the consequences of getting convicted of a DUI can be severe. With every subsequent offense, the penalties will increase.

After being convicted of a third DUI in Michigan, you can expect to face the following penalties.

• Fines ranging from $500 to $5,000
• License plate revocation
• Vehicle immobilization or forfeiture
• Mandatory community service of 60 to 180 days
• License revocation if the third offense occurs within 7 years of a prior offense or 10 years of two prior convictions
• 6 points added to the driving record
• 30 days to 1 year in jail OR 1 to 5 years in prison

The consequences of a third DUI conviction are extensive and match the severity of the crime. To avoid the full extent of these penalties work with a skilled defense lawyer.

How Long Will I Spend in Jail for a Third DUI?

The answer to this question will vary depending on the specific circumstances of your situation. In general, the act of getting a third DUI leaves you vulnerable to a jail sentence of 1 year or a prison sentence of 5 years.

After your conviction, you will spend at least 30 days in jail, as you may be sentenced to probation with imprisonment in the county jail. In this case, the least amount of time you will spend in jail is 30 days and the most you will have to spend is one year.

However, convicted individuals often receive prison time instead, since a third DUI is a felony offense. If you are sentenced to prison you know you will spend at least one year behind bars and up to 5 years.

The amount of time you are given depends on aggravating or mitigating factors. If your blood alcohol content was significantly high, you were driving at reckless speeds, you caused property damage, you caused an injury or death, you had a minor passenger in the vehicle, etc. a court may sentence you to the maximum term.

To learn more about the specifics of your case and how long you will likely spend in jail or prison, reach out to a skilled attorney today.