Technically, in the state of Michigan, the term for driving under the influence is OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), but colloquially, most people refer to this charge as DUI, (Driving Under the Influence). Nevertheless, if you’ve been arrested and charged with operating your vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you’re up against a wide range of potential penalties. Please continue reading and reach out to a dedicated Marquette DUI lawyer from Berger Law to learn more about the penalties for a DUI in Michigan and how we can help you fight them. Here are some of the questions you may have:
A first-offense DUI in Michigan is classified as a misdemeanor. It means that you have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or any amount of a Schedule 1 controlled substance or cocaine in your system. The penalties for a first-offense DUI are:
Importantly, if your blood alcohol content was above .17%, you will face more severe penalties, which are:
For a second-offense DUI in the state of Michigan, you can expect to face even harsher penalties, as courts will now treat you as a repeat offender. The penalties for a second-offense DUI are as follows:
For a third DUI in the state of Michigan, you can expect to face an incredibly harsh set of penalties, including a period of incarceration ranging anywhere between one and five years. Other penalties you may face are as follows:
As you can see, DUI offenses in Michigan are not to be taken lightly. That said, with the right attorney in your corner, you stand a strong chance of having your charges mitigated, or, in the best cases, dropped altogether. For further questions, or if you would like to speak with a competent DUI lawyer from our firm, simply contact us today.
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