What are the Penalties for DUI in Michigan?
If you have been arrested in Oakland County for a DUI, you could face the following penalties:
First offense DUI penalties:
- Up to 93 days in jail
- 2 years probation
- Up to $500 in fines
- 360 hours of community service
- License suspension for 30 days
Second offense DUI penalties:
- Up to one year in jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- Up to 90 days of community service
- Mandatory Vehicle Immobilization
Third offense DUI penalties:
- Up to 5 years in jail
- Up to $2,000 in fines
- Up to 1800 days of community service
- Mandatory Vehicle Immobilization
What are the 3 Field Sobriety Tests?
If you are pulled over for a suspected DUI, the officer is likely going to perform a field sobriety test. The Standardized Field Sobriety Test (SFST) is made of up 3 individual tests:
- Horizontal Gaze Nystagmus (HGN) test - In this test, the officer will observe the eyes of the person in question as they slowly move a pen or small object back and forth to look for indicators in each eye that the person is impaired.
- Walk-and-turn test - In this test, the officer instructs the person to take nine steps, touching heel-to-toe in a straight line, and then return back. The officer is looking for signs that the person is impaired, such as not being able to keep their balance, starting before the instructions are finished, or not following the instructions properly.
- One-leg stand test - In this test, the officer instructs the person to stand with one foot off the ground and hold it for about 30 seconds or until told to put it down. The officer looks for signs of impairment such as swaying, hoping, or using their arms to balance.
The Importance of Hiring an Experienced DUI Defense Lawyer
When facing a DUI charge, it's crucial to seek the assistance of an experienced DUI defense lawyer. Navigating the legal system can be complex and overwhelming, and a skilled attorney can help you understand your rights and options.
At Rights First Law P.C., our Birmingham DUI defense lawyers have years of experience representing clients in Oakland County and throughout Michigan. We understand the intricacies of DUI law and can provide you with the guidance and support you need to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
The benefits of hiring an experienced DUI defense lawyer include:
- Thorough knowledge of DUI laws and legal procedures
- Ability to negotiate with prosecutors and secure favorable plea deals
- Ability to challenge evidence and prosecution's case
- Effective advocacy in court
- Potential to minimize or avoid penalties, including fines, license suspension, and jail time
If you're facing a DUI charge in Oakland County or the surrounding areas, don't hesitate to contact our experienced DUI defense lawyers at Rights First Law P.C. We're here to help you every step of the way.
Contact Our DUI Lawyer in Oakland County Today
At Rights First Law, we make sure you are fully informed about the court process and understand all the options for your case. Our criminal defense attorney cares about you and your future, and we can fight to protect you at every step in the process.
Local DUI Defense in Oakland County: Navigating Local Challenges
Living in Oakland County, you know that our community is vibrant and diverse, but also that local law enforcement takes DUI charges very seriously. The Oakland County Sheriff's Office and local police departments, such as the Birmingham Police Department, are vigilant in their efforts to keep our roads safe. This means that even a minor infraction can lead to significant legal challenges.
One of the common pain points for residents is the strict enforcement of DUI laws, especially around popular areas like downtown Birmingham and the bustling neighborhoods of Royal Oak. These areas are known for their nightlife, and it's easy to find yourself facing a DUI charge after a night out. The local courts, including the 48th District Court in Bloomfield Hills, are well-versed in handling these cases, and penalties can be severe.
At Rights First Law, P.C., we understand the unique challenges faced by Oakland County residents. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a DUI checkpoint on Woodward Avenue or navigating the legal complexities at the Oakland County Circuit Court, our team is here to help. We know the local roads, the local law enforcement practices, and the local court systems, which allows us to provide you with a defense that's tailored to your specific situation.
Our goal is to help you understand your rights and options, and to work towards the best possible outcome for your situation. We know that a DUI charge can be overwhelming, but with our local knowledge and dedicated support, you don't have to face it alone.
Contact Rights First Law P.C. by calling (248) 785-3334 today to get started on your defense with our Oakland County DUI attorney.
Commonly Asked Questions
What Constitutes a DUI Charge in Oakland County, Michigan?
In Oakland County, Michigan, a DUI charge, referred to as OWI (operating while intoxicated), is issued when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This also includes operating under the influence of controlled substances such as marijuana or certain prescription drugs.
How Can a DUI Defense Lawyer in Oakland County Assist with My OWI Charge?
A DUI defense lawyer can assist with your OWI charge by reviewing the details of your arrest to ensure proper procedures were followed, exploring defense options, negotiating with prosecutors, challenging evidence, and advocating on your behalf in court to potentially minimize penalties like fines, license suspension, and jail time. Hiring a defense lawyer means putting a skilled legal professional at your side.
