Michigan OWVI First Offense

After an individual conducts the Standard Field Sobriety Tests (SFSTs), they will typically be given a Preliminary Breath Test (PBT) and then arrested or allowed to leave the scene based on the testing and observations. If a person tests lower than .08 they are often times allowed to leave the scene and not charged with a crime. Many more cases could be issued if police agencies followed the law on impaired driving which states that it is proven if:

1. The defendant was operating a motor vehicle on a highway,
2. on another place open to the general public or generally accessible to motor vehicles, or on a parking area; and
3. his or her ability to operate was so weakened or reduced by the consumption of alcohol, controlled substances, or other intoxicating substances, or a combination of these, that the operation was with less care than that used by an ordinary, careful, and prudent driver. The weakened or reduced ability to operate must be visible to an ordinary, observant person.

View the entire Michigan OWVI First Offense Statute

One of the main reasons why the highlighted section may be difficult for a prosecuting agency to prove is the there is no longer any presumption of intoxication based on their alcohol content. However, it is still very common for juries to find defendants guilty of the lesser-included crime of OWVI if the proof is week on the requirement of .08 or higher. It will take a skilled trial attorney to make sure the jury understands the difference and does not simply find the client guilty of “something” rather than letting them go free through a not guilty verdict.

Michigan OWVI Has Significant Plea Bargain Value

Due to the fact that prosecuting attorneys across the state as well as local municipalities charge OWI as the offense, a plea bargain to Operating While Visibly Impaired has significant plea bargain value. The problem is that many first offense drunk driving cases are well over the .08 limit and therefore a plea to impaired driving is not guaranteed by any means. Many county prosecutors have policies that are handed down to assistance regarding plea negotiations and it can take a significant amount of leverage to negotiate a lesser plea. The penalties differ enough that it is well worth it to many Michigan drivers to keep their licenses for travel to and from their employment versus the 30 day hard suspension found in the OWI penalties.

If you have been charged with any Michigan DUI call us on the DUI hotline and speak to an attorney immediately. Call (269) 218-4003 today!

Free Michigan DUI Consultation

Get a risk free, no obligation review of your DUI case from an attorney that concentrates their practice on Michigan DUI defense.

During this free telephone consultation, you will find out the following:

• A detailed overview of the court process in your jurisdiction
• Exactly how much your DUI defense will cost
• Why our law firm is uniquely qualified to handle your DUI case

Call our Michigan DUI Hotline at (616) 502-1646