Grand Rapids, Michigan, DUI/DWI/OWI/OWVI Lawyers
If you have been arrested for drunk driving in Michigan, a lot is at stake in the outcome of your case. Even first-offense drunk driving charges can result in jail time, fines, community service, and a costly "driver responsibility fee" that is imposed for up to two years by the Michigan Secretary of State — separate from your fine and court costs. Having an experienced and aggressive drunk driving defense lawyer is critical in order to protect your rights.
The criminal defense lawyers of Worsfold Macfarlane McDonald, PLLC in Grand Rapids are experienced in defending people charged with OWI (known in other states as DUI or DWI) as well as the lesser offense of OWVI (operating while visibly impaired). We provide strong advocacy for clients facing drunk driving charges, fighting to protect their rights and preserve their driving privileges.
Michigan Drunk Driving Penalties (OWI and OWVI)
- OWI (Operating While Intoxicated): Operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .08 percent or higher is considered OWI in the State of Michigan. For a first OWI offense, you face penalties of up to 93 days in jail, a $500 fine, up to 360 days of community service, 180 days driver's license suspension and a driver responsibility fee of $1,000 per year for up to two years. Failure to pay this fee will result in license suspension.
- OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired): Operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .07 or lower may result in the charge of OWVI. While a lesser charge, a conviction for OWVI also subjects one to serious penalties including jail time, fines of up to $300.00, 90 days of restricted driving privileges and the imposition of a driver responsibility fee of $500.00 per year for two years.
An arrest for drunk driving is a serious event. We will review your case in detail and fully advise you of your rights under the law. We will examine the legality of the traffic stop involved in your arrest, the admissibility of any Breathalyzer results, and other evidence. If appropriate, we will consider suppression of any information or evidence that may have been obtained illegally.
We will work to minimize the imposition of jail time, fines and penalties and will utilize our best efforts to streamline, keeping you informed along the way. The attorneys of Worsfold Macfarlane McDonald have achieved excellent results for clients charged with drinking and driving violations.
Free Attorney Consultation
To discuss your OWI or OWVI case with a lawyer, call 616-977-9200 or fill out the contact form on this site. From our office in Grand Rapids, we represent clients throughout Michigan.
