WHY YOU SHOULD HIRE A MICHIGAN DUI/OWI ATTORNEY

by Justin Van Den Heuvel

In all states in the nation, operating a vehicle while intoxicated – referred to as OWI rather than DUI in Michigan – is illegal. And if you are arrested and convicted of a DUI/OWI charge, you may face serious penalties. In Michigan, the penalties for an operating while intoxicated conviction include jail time of up to 93 days for a first offense, fines and penalties, a license suspension, and even the use of an interlock ignition device, especially for subsequent offenses.

Because so much is on the line if you are arrested for an OWI in Michigan, it makes sense to work with an experienced OWI defense attorneys. Here are some reasons why you should hire an attorney as soon as possible following your arrest:

An Attorney Can Have Evidence Against You Dismissed

In order to convicted you of an OWI in Michigan, the prosecution must prevent evidence that demonstrates beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving while intoxicated. Two of the most common types of evidence that the prosecution relies on in OWI cases include:

• The results of a field sobriety test; and/or
• The results of a breath or blood alcohol test.

Fortunately, for someone who is charged with an OWI, these tests are not foolproof; in fact, the rates of error with both field sobriety and blood/breath alcohol tests are high. Your attorney may be able to prove that these tests were improperly administered or were defective, or that evidence was unlawfully obtained, thereby dismissing evidence against you.

Reducing Charges or Sentencing

An attorney may also be able to have charges against you reduced to a less serious charge, such as a “wet reckless,” or may be able to negotiate with the prosecution to reducing your sentencing (i.e. no jail time, only a fine) in the event that you plead guilty. An attorney will also explore all viable defenses to a OWI/DUI charge, including lack of intent or knowledge of intoxication and unlawful stop.

Contact Our Experienced Michigan Operating While Intoxicated Attorneys Today

There is a lot on the line when you are arrested for an operating while intoxicated offense. If you are convicted, you may face the penalties above, as well as damage to your reputation and future career opportunities.

Don’t risk it all – if you are charged with an OWI in Michigan, contact our experienced attorneys at the Van Den Heuvel Law Office for a free case consultation. We care about representing you competently, and have the experience and case results that you are looking for.

To schedule your free case review with our talented Michigan OWI team today, call us now at 616-698-0000. Whether you are facing a first, second, or third offense OWI charge, we can help.

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