Wayne County, MI DUI Lawyer & Attorney

Wayne County, MI DUI Lawyer & Attorney

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Wayne County, as it is throughout Michigan. A DUI arrest can have far-reaching consequences, including criminal charges, license suspension, fines, and potential incarceration. Additionally, a DUI conviction can tarnish your reputation, impact your employment opportunities, and result in higher insurance premiums.

Given the severity of the penalties associated with DUI offenses, the significance of legal representation cannot be overstated. A skilled DUI lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complex legal process, protecting your rights, and advocating for the best possible outcome in your case.

DUI Laws and Penalties in Wayne County, MI

Michigan's DUI Laws

Michigan's DUI laws prohibit individuals from operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Michigan is 0.08% for drivers aged 21 and over, and 0.02% for drivers under the legal drinking age of 21.

Michigan also has an "implied consent" law, which means that by operating a motor vehicle on the state's roads, you consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) to determine your BAC if you are suspected of DUI. Refusal to submit to chemical testing can result in administrative penalties, including license suspension.

Under Michigan's DUI laws, individuals can be charged with several different DUI-related offenses, including Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI), and Operating with a High BAC (Super Drunk). The specific charge and associated penalties depend on factors such as the driver's BAC level, prior DUI convictions, and whether any aggravating circumstances were present.

Potential Penalties for DUI Offenses

The penalties for DUI offenses in Wayne County, MI, can vary depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. Some potential penalties for DUI offenses in Michigan include:

- Fines: DUI fines in Michigan can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars, depending on the nature of the offense and any aggravating factors.

- License Suspension: A DUI conviction can result in the suspension or revocation of your driver's license, making it challenging to commute to work or fulfill other obligations.

- Jail Time: Depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions, individuals convicted of DUI in Wayne County may face incarceration.

- Probation: DUI offenders may be placed on probation, which typically involves complying with certain conditions, such as attending alcohol education classes or abstaining from alcohol consumption.

- Vehicle Immobilization: In some cases, the court may order the immobilization or forfeiture of the vehicle involved in the DUI offense.

- Ignition Interlock Device: Individuals convicted of DUI may be required to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle, which prevents the vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver's breath.

Common Defense Tactics Used by DUI Lawyers

Challenging Probable Cause: DUI arrests typically begin with a traffic stop by law enforcement. DUI lawyers may challenge the legality of the stop, arguing that law enforcement lacked reasonable suspicion or probable cause to initiate the stop in the first place.

Questioning Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests are often administered by law enforcement officers during DUI stops. However, these tests can be subjective and unreliable. DUI lawyers may challenge the accuracy and validity of field sobriety tests, arguing that factors such as poor weather conditions, uneven terrain, or physical impairments may have influenced the results.

Disputing Breathalyzer Results: Breathalyzer tests are commonly used to measure a driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of the stop. DUI lawyers may challenge the accuracy of breathalyzer results, citing factors such as improper calibration, equipment malfunction, or operator error.

Asserting Rising BAC Defense: The body's absorption and elimination of alcohol are complex processes that can affect BAC levels over time. DUI lawyers may argue that their client's BAC was below the legal limit at the time of driving but rose to illegal levels by the time they were tested, due to the body's natural metabolic processes.

Violation of Rights: DUI lawyers may assert that law enforcement violated their client's constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation, such as failure to read Miranda rights, conducting an unlawful search or seizure, or coercing a confession.

Challenging Blood Test Results: In cases where blood tests are conducted to determine BAC, DUI lawyers may challenge the chain of custody or handling of the blood sample, as well as the qualifications of the laboratory technicians involved in the testing process.

Steps to Take After a DUI Arrest in Wayne County, MI

Remain Calm: While being arrested for DUI can be upsetting, it's essential to remain calm and cooperative with law enforcement officers. Avoid arguing or resisting arrest, as this could escalate the situation and lead to additional charges.

Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent and refrain from answering any questions posed by law enforcement officers. Politely but firmly invoke your right to remain silent and request to speak with an attorney.

Decline Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests are voluntary, and you are not legally required to submit to them. Politely decline to perform any field sobriety tests, as these tests are subjective and may be used as evidence against you in court.

Request an Attorney: As soon as possible, request to speak with a DUI attorney. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance and representation throughout the legal process, protecting your rights and advocating for the best possible outcome in your case.

Avoid Making Incriminating Statements: Refrain from making any statements that could be construed as an admission of guilt. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it's best to remain silent until you've consulted with your attorney.

Attend Court Hearings: You will likely be required to attend court hearings following your DUI arrest. It's essential to appear at all scheduled court dates and comply with any court orders or directives issued by the judge.

Address License Suspension: Following a DUI arrest, your driver's license may be subject to suspension or revocation. Your attorney can assist you in requesting a hearing to challenge the license suspension and explore options for obtaining a restricted or hardship license.

Services Offered by Marko Law in Wayne County, MI

Legal Representation for DUI Charges

If you've been arrested for DUI in Wayne County, MI, you need skilled legal representation to defend your rights and advocate for the best possible outcome in your case. At Marko Law, we have extensive experience handling DUI cases and are committed to providing aggressive defense strategies to protect our clients' interests.

Our DUI defense services include:

- Conducting a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding your DUI arrest

- Developing a personalized defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case

- Challenging evidence presented by the prosecution, including field sobriety tests and chemical test results

- Negotiating with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or secure alternative sentencing options

- Representing you in court proceedings, including arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and trial, if necessary

- Providing guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options every step of the way

Assistance with License Suspension Hearings and DUI-Related Matters

In addition to defending against DUI charges, Marko Law also provides assistance with license suspension hearings and other DUI-related matters. If your driver's license has been suspended or revoked as a result of a DUI arrest, we can help you navigate the administrative process and seek reinstatement of your driving privileges.

Our services in this area include:

- Representation at administrative license suspension hearings

- Preparation of documents and evidence to support your case for license reinstatement

- Advocacy on your behalf before the Michigan Secretary of State's Office

- Guidance on complying with any requirements or conditions imposed as a result of the license suspension

- Legal advice and support for addressing other DUI-related matters, such as vehicle impoundment or ignition interlock device requirements

Contact Marko Law for Experienced DUI Defense

Don't wait to take action—your future may be at stake. Contact Marko Law now to schedule a consultation and discuss your case with our knowledgeable DUI defense attorneys. With our expertise and track record of success, we'll provide the aggressive representation you need to navigate the complexities of the legal system and achieve the best possible outcome in your DUI case. Don't risk your freedom and future—reach out to Marko Law today for experienced DUI defense you can trust.