Michigan DUI Laws, Penalties, and License SuspensionMichigan drunk driving laws have become more and more complicated and the penalties are more harsh that ever. The amount of alcohol a person can consume is becoming less and the effort to crack down on DUI's is rising. Most people arrested for drunk driving  have never been in trouble with the law before, this will be the first time they were handcuffed, put into the back of a police car, and tried by the state in court.
The DMV and court process is confusing and there is no room for even the slightest error. Knowing the laws, penalties, fees and process is extremely important. The biggest mistake you can make is assuming that you don't need to speak to a lawyer. DUIs are very complex and a lot is at stake. If you plead guilty to a DUI, your guilty. No reducing, no plea bargaining, just guilty. Give your case a change, talk to a lawyer. You can schedule a free, no obligation consultation with an attorney today by calling (877) 678-5640.
Michigan Laws
The following driving actions are illegal in the State of Michigan:
- All drivers with a BAC of .08 or higher.
- Under 21 with a BAC of .02 or higher.
- Commercial Vehicle Driver with a BAC of .04 or higher.
Michigan Penalties
First Drunk Driving Conviction
The first time you receive a OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) conviction you will be fined from $100-$500 and serve up to 93 days in jail. You may also be sentenced to 360 hours of community service. Your drivers license will be suspended for 30 days, followed by driving restrictions for an additional 150 days. Other possibilities include vehicle immobilization and the installation of an ignition interlock device at the owners expense. You will also have to pay a $1,000 "Driver Responsibility" fee for 2 years.
Second Drunk Driving Conviction
Your second drunk driving conviction in the State of Michigan will cost you between $200 and $1,000. You will also be sentenced between 5 days and 1 year in jail and from 30-90 days of community service. Your drivers license will be revoked for a period of one year and your license plate will be confiscated. Your vehicle will either be forfeited or immobilized for 90 to 180 days. You will also have to pay a $1,000 "Driver Responsibility" fee for 2 years.
Third Drunk Driving Conviction
A third drunk driving offense in Michigan is a felony. You will be fined from $500-$5,000 and be sentenced to 1-5 years in jail and/or 60-180 days of community service. Your drivers license will be revoked for a minimum of 5 years and your license plate will be confiscated. Your vehicle will be immobilized for 1-3 years or forfeited. You will be unable to register a motor vehicle and you will need to pay a $1,000 driver responsibility fee for 2 years.
Michigan Drivers License Issues
Like many states, Michigan's implied consent law deems that all drivers agree to submit to a chemical test of their Blood, Breath or Urine if you are arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The first time you refuse this test, your drivers license will be suspended for a period of 1 year and you will have 6 points added to your driving record. A second refusal within 7 years of the first, and your license to drive will be suspended for 2 years. There are no hardship appeals for a restricted license on your second refusal in the State of Michigan.
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has some very strenuous drunk driving laws. A DUI can cost you your drivers license, it caries heavy fines and penalties, and can even put you in jail. Follow the link to find out more information:
