Facing OWI/DUI Charges? Your Lansing Legal Lifeline.
In Michigan, drunk driving charges are referred to as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI). If you’re facing an OWI charge in Lansing or are a Michigan State University student worried about the consequences, Cheltenham Law, PLLC, is here to help. As experienced OWI/DUI lawyers, we understand the complexities of these cases and the potential impact on your future.
OWI Vs. DUI: Unraveling Michigan’s Drunk Driving Laws
Michigan law uses OWI (operating while intoxicated) instead of DUI (driving under the influence). This term covers operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or both. There are several situations that can lead to OWI charges:
- Blood alcohol content (BAC) over the legal limit (.08% for most drivers)
- Visible impairment, even with BAC below the limit
- Presence of drugs in your system
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for building a strong defense. Additionally, Michigan also has “super drunk” laws for drivers with a BAC of .17% or higher, which carry more severe penalties.
The Real Cost Of An OWI: Michigan’s Penalty Breakdown
OWI convictions can lead to serious consequences, which vary based on the severity of the offense:
- First offense: Up to 93 days in jail, fines, license suspension and possible ignition interlock device installation
- Aggravated OWI (high BAC or repeat offenses): Increased jail time, higher fines and longer license suspension
- “Super drunk” cases: Up to 180 days in jail, substantial fines and mandatory alcohol treatment
These penalties can have long-lasting effects on your personal and professional life. For college students, the consequences can be even more severe:
- Loss of scholarships
- Difficulty finding employment
- Potential expulsion from school
Given these serious repercussions, it’s crucial to have experienced legal representation to protect your rights and future.
Turning The Tables: How We Challenge OWI Charges
At Cheltenham Law, PLLC, our OWI/DUI lawyers provide crucial assistance in several ways:
- Analyzing evidence: We scrutinize blood tests, breath tests and field sobriety tests for potential errors.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: We aim to reduce charges or penalties when possible.
- Representing you in court: Our OWI/DUI lawyers advocate strongly for your rights before a judge.
- Protecting your driving privileges: We work to minimize license suspension impacts.
By leveraging our expertise in each of these areas, we strive to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. As your OWI/DUI lawyer, we understand the stress you’re under. Our team at Cheltenham Law, PLLC, in Lansing, Michigan, is committed to providing a robust defense and guiding you through this challenging time.
From Confusion To Clarity: Your OWI Questions Addressed
To help you better understand OWI cases in Michigan, we’ve answered some common questions:
Do you need a lawyer for OWI in Michigan?
While not required, having an experienced OWI/DUI lawyer significantly improves your chances of a favorable outcome. Law enforcement officers and prosecutors are well-versed in OWI cases, making professional legal representation crucial.
Is OWI worse than DUI in Michigan?
In Michigan, OWI and DUI refer to the same offense. The state uses OWI officially, but the terms are often used interchangeably. The severity depends on the specific circumstances, not the terminology.
How likely is jail time for the first DUI in Michigan?
While possible, jail time for a first OWI offense is not always mandatory. Factors like BAC level and specific case details influence sentencing. An experienced OWI/DUI lawyer can often help minimize the risk of jail time for first-time offenders.
These answers provide a general overview, but every case is unique. For specific advice about your situation, it’s best to consult with an experienced OWI/DUI lawyer.
Time Is Critical In OWI Cases: Let’s Talk Now
If you’re facing OWI charges in Lansing or anywhere in Michigan, don’t wait to seek legal help. The OWI/DUI lawyers at Cheltenham Law, PLLC, are ready to defend your rights and fight for a positive outcome. Contact us today by calling 517-652-0007 or by emailing us to schedule a consultation right away.