Troy DUI Charges and Penalties

Operating while intoxicated (OWI), also commonly known as driving under the influence (DUI), can result in many negative consequences that can impact various aspects of your life. Jail time and license suspension are possible even for a first OWI offense, which might impede your employment. Due to the potential severity of Troy DUI charges and penalties, getting the advice of legal counsel may be necessary.

Defenses may exist in your OWI case, but without excellence in criminal defense from a seasoned DUI attorney, your rights may not be protected. Together, you can explore your options for resolving the charges against you and determine the best defense strategy for your situation.

Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.625(1) provides that individuals that can face criminal charges for operating while intoxicated or OWI if they either:

• Drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or more
• Drive while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both

Drivers may also be charged with operating while visibly impaired (OWVI). Under this provision in the law, individuals can face OWVI charges if their ability to operate motor vehicles is visibly impaired due to using alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. A conviction for OWVI does not rely on a BAC reading but only proof of visible impairment.

Both OWI and OWVI charges and penalties in Troy can be harsh including the addition of points to driver’s licenses, fines, license suspension, and jail time. Additionally, a conviction is likely to increase your insurance rates and may endanger your job.

In most cases, OWI is a misdemeanor offense, but there are some circumstances in which an OWI charge becomes a felony offense. Whether individuals are facing misdemeanor or felony charges, however, the resulting penalties can be harsh.

A first-time OWI conviction can result in:

• A jail sentence of up to 93 days
• A fine of up to $500
• Up to 360 community service hours
• Suspended or restricted driving privileges for 180 days

Additionally, individuals convicted of a first OWI offense may have six points assessed to their driver’s licenses, be ordered to pay court costs, and attend a substance abuse education class. A conviction for a first-time OWVI could result in many of the same penalties, although the resulting sentence and license suspension tend to be lighter than that for an OWI conviction.

Penalties for an OWI conviction can increase substantially due to the presence of some aggravating factors. For instance, if the BAC of individuals measures .17 percent or more, they could face up to 180 days in jail and a lengthier license suspension if convicted of OWI as they are considered super drunk.

Furthermore, individuals with two or more prior OWI convictions can face much more severe Troy charges and penalties for DUI. These individuals may be charged with felony OWI, which can lead to various penalties, including up to five years in prison and revocation of driving privileges for up to five years.

If you are facing OWI charges, the results can be disastrous if you are convicted. The charges and penalties for DUI in Troy can be harsh so do not hesitate to seek legal advice about your potential options. Enlisting legal assistance in this situation can be vital to your ability to minimize the penalties that you may face and perhaps avoid an OWI conviction altogether. Call a criminal defense attorney today for a consultation and to learn more about Troy DUI charges and penalties.