DUI Lawyer Allegan

Most people refer to the offense of drunk driving as a DUI or driving under the influence. In Allegan, though as throughout the rest of Michigan, drunk driving is known as ‘operating while intoxicated,’ or OWI. Many people think they can only be charged with OWI if they have a blood alcohol content (BAC) over a certain limit.

Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Michigan has many different OWI charges in the state, and they all carry serious penalties, including jail time, high fines, and the suspension or revocation of a driver’s license. If you or someone you love is facing drunk driving charges, a DUI lawyer in Allegan can help you retain your freedom.

DUI Charges in Allegan

Contrary to what many people think, there are many types of DUI charges a person may face in Allegan. They are as follows:

• Driving while impaired: It is natural to think that driving while impaired means operating a motor vehicle with a BAC over 0.08%. However, that is not the case in Michigan. To be charged with driving while impaired, a person must only drive in an unreasonable manner. The state must prove that another person would reasonably assume the accused driver was impaired.
• Driving while intoxicated: This charge is what most people think of when they hear the term ‘drunk driving.’ A person can be charged with an OWI when they are found operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or over.
• Super drunk: Also known as ‘operating with a high blood alcohol content,’ super drunk charges are applied when a driver is found with a BAC of 0.17% or higher.
• Drugged driving: It is not only driving under the influence of alcohol that can result in an OWI. Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of substances such as marijuana, and even certain prescription medications can result in an OWI.

Each of these offenses may result in high fines and possible jail time for individuals that are convicted of the crime. In addition to these penalties, a motorist will also likely lose their driver’s license for a certain period of time.

Suspended and Revoked Driver’s Licenses

Most motorists will lose their driver’s license, at least temporarily, after being charged with any type of OWI. Individuals that are convicted of an OWI and it is their first offense will lose their driver’s license for a minimum of six months. After 30 days, these individuals can request a restricted driver’s license that may allow them to travel to work or school. Subsequent offenses may result in a person losing their driver’s license for even longer.

Also, under Michigan’s implied consent law, anyone that refuses a chemical test, such as a breath test, will have their driver’s license suspended for at least one year. Although this decision can be appealed, motorists will still likely lose their license for a short period of time.

Our DUI Lawyer in Allegan Can Help With Your Charges

If you have been charged with drunk driving, it is critical that you speak to our Allegan DUI lawyer for assistance with your case. At Van Den Heuvel Law Office, our knowledgeable attorneys know that not everyone charged with a DUI is guilty, and we work hard to help individuals retain their freedom. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our skilled attorneys today.