Troy Third-Offense DUI Lawyer

A first or even second DUI offense carries the potential for severe penalties upon conviction. However, a third DUI offense in a lifetime may be elevated to felony charges which can cause even more severe consequences. When you are facing third-time DUI charges, consulting a Troy third-offense DUI lawyer may be wise.

DUI cases move quickly through the criminal justice system so you must act fast to protect your rights and build a strong case. Consulting a DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible after your arrest could be vital to avoiding or minimizing some of the consequences of a subsequent DUI conviction.

Mich. Comp. Laws § 257.625 makes it illegal for drivers to operate motor vehicles while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of the two. Operating while intoxicated or (OWI) also occurs when individuals drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent or higher. Minors under the age of 21 and individuals operating commercial vehicles are subject to even lower legal BAC limits when driving.

There are also certain factors that may result in aggravated DUI or OWI charges, carrying correspondingly enhanced penalties. Some of the factors that may lead to increased sanctions for OWI convictions can include:

• OWI with minor children in the vehicle
• Driving with a BAC of .17 percent or greater

These factors may increase the penalties for an OWI conviction. The presence of multiple previous OWI convictions in Michigan or other states is another factor that could make a conviction worse. Legal representation by a third offense DUI lawyer in Troy can have an impact on the resolution of subsequent OWI charges in some cases.

First and second OWI charges are misdemeanor offenses, although a conviction for these charges could still have a severe and permanent impact on a driver’s life. However, individuals with two prior OWI charges can face felony charges, which can have far more severe results. A third OWI charge is a felony charge no matter how long ago the previous convictions were.

Potential sanctions for a third DUI offense conviction include incarceration ranging for up to five years, a minimum 30-day to one-year jail sentence, and probation. Individuals convicted of this offense also may face fines of up to $5,000 and 180 days of community service. Individuals could also have their licenses revoked if there was a prior conviction within seven years.

Additionally, individuals convicted of this offense may experience confiscation of license plates, denial of vehicle registration, and immobilization of their vehicles for as long as three years or even be forced to forfeit their vehicle. Sentencing judges are also likely to require individuals in this situation to undergo alcohol education, counseling, or treatment.

Following a third DUI conviction under state law, individuals may have difficulty restoring their driving privileges. If they are successful in doing so, they likely must bear the costs of installing and maintaining a blood alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID) in their vehicle. Their insurance premium will also become significantly more expensive. If drivers are convicted of this felony level offense, they will also be barred from owning firearms or voting.

If you are facing felony charges with potentially devastating penalties, you cannot afford to go through this process alone. Having experienced legal representation on your side may allow you to reach a better conclusion to your criminal charges. A Troy third offense DUI lawyer can be vital in resolving your case with a minimum of impact on your personal and professional life. Call today for an evaluation of your case and to start building your defense.