DUI Penalties in Michigan: OWI Consequences Infographic Grid

Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) charges in Michigan come with serious consequences that can affect every aspect of your life. From legal penalties to personal and professional impacts, understanding the potential outcomes of an OWI conviction is essential.

Our DUI Penalties Infographic visually summarizes the fines, jail time, license suspensions, and other penalties associated with OWI offenses in Michigan.

The severity of penalties for an OWI conviction depends on several factors, including the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior offenses, and any aggravating circumstances such as accidents or injuries. Below is a breakdown of typical penalties:

• Fines: Up to $500.
• License Suspension: 6 months (30 days no driving, 5 months restricted).
• Jail Time: Up to 93 days.

• Fines: $200–$1,000.
• License Revocation: Minimum 1 year.
• Jail Time: 5 days to 1 year.

• Fines: $500–$5,000.
• License Revocation: Minimum 5 years.
• Jail Time: 1 to 5 years (felony offense).

Fines, jail time, and license suspension aren't the only potential consequences of an OWI conviction. Other possible consequences could include:

• Criminal record. The conviction becomes a part of your criminal record, which could impact your employment. Many employers ask questions about your criminal record on their applications and run background checks. You could be denied employment because of the conviction. 
• Auto rate increases. You'll likely see an increase in your auto insurance rates after an OWI. The conviction typically requires an SR-22 certificate, which is a financial responsibility document. Not all companies offer insurance if you need an SR-22, and the rates are often higher.  
• Travel restrictions. When you're on probation for an OWI, you could face restrictions regarding how far you can travel. Some countries deny entry to travelers with OWI convictions.
• Professional license issues. If your profession requires a license or certification, that credential could be at risk. The licensing board for your profession may stipulate that you attend classes, counseling, or other programs for your first OWI. However, driving drunk could cause your professional license to be suspended or revoked, especially on subsequent convictions. 
• Ignition interlock device requirements. You might be required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle as part of your restricted license. The device requires you to be completely sober to operate the vehicle. You'll have to pay for the installation and monthly lease, which adds to the financial burden of an OWI conviction. 

With so many potential consequences that affect your life, you need a solid defense to get the charges dismissed or reduce the punishments. Barone Defense Firm examines all the details of your case to find the strongest defense options, which might include:

• Challenging the results of your BAC and field sobriety tests
• Determining if the police made any errors in their procedures or violated your rights during the arrest
• Negotiating plea deals to reduce the severity of the sentence
• Trying to get the charges reduced
• Using expert witness testimony
• Seeking alternative sentencing options

If you refused a post-arrest chemical test for blood alcohol, blood, or urine, you face an immediate administrative suspension of your driving privileges. This suspension goes into effect 14 days after your arrest unless you take action.

1. Request a Hearing: This must be done promptly to challenge the administrative suspension.
2. Consult a Lawyer: A skilled OWI attorney can help you navigate the hearing process and fight for your driving privileges.
3. Gather Evidence: Work with your lawyer to build a defense that may include challenging the legality of your arrest or the validity of the test refusal.

Failing to act within this critical period means losing your ability to drive in Michigan. Contact the Barone Defense Firm immediately to begin the process of protecting your rights.

At the Barone Defense Firm, we understand that OWI charges can place financial stress on you and your family. That’s why we offer:

• Flexible Payment Plans: Tailored to fit your budget and needs.
• Free Consultations: Confidential case reviews to evaluate your legal options and provide guidance.

Barone Defense Firm has a proven track record of successful OWI defenses in a wide range of cases. Our experienced attorneys use effective legal strategies tailored to your case to get the charges dismissed or minimize the penalties you face. We take an aggressive approach to ensure you get the right defense to protect your future and allow you to move forward.

When you're facing an OWI charge, you need a skilled, local OWI attorney who understands the local courts and has relationships with local judges and prosecutors. Our team has a deep knowledge of Michigan OWI laws and services clients throughout the state, giving you the aggressive legal representation you need. Our service areas include:

• Rochester
• Grand Rapids
• Troy
• Holland
• Birmingham
• Grand Haven
• Plymouth
• Hudsonville
• Royal Oak
• Bloomfield Hills
• Novi
• Ann Arbor
• Farmington Hills