DUI / DWI Defense in Michigan

Michigan calls drunk driving OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) with a BAC limit of 0.08%. A first offense carries up to 93 days jail, $500 fine, 180-day license restriction, and 6 points. Attorney fees range $2,000-$4,500. Michigan has a unique "High BAC" charge for 0.17%+ carrying enhanced penalties including mandatory 45-day vehicle immobilization and one year with ignition interlock. A second OWI within seven years is a misdemeanor carrying 5 days to one year jail and $1,000 fine. Third offense (within lifetime) is a felony with up to 5 years prison. Michigan's implied consent law imposes automatic one-year license suspension for test refusal, appealable through a Secretary of State hearing within 14 days. Sobriety courts in Michigan offer intensive treatment alternatives to incarceration for qualifying repeat offenders.