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Drunk Driving & DUI Attorneys

Drunk Driving DUI Attorney Grand Rapids, MI

As a Grand Rapids DUI Lawyer, we work with those that are looking at DUI charges in Grand Rapids. This can be a very serious criminal offense, which is why it’s important you hire our drunk driving attorneys in Grand Rapids, MI, or DUI attorneys in Grand Rapids as soon as possible.  Don’t think you can talk your way out of it.  This is a very serious matter that will carry on your record for years to come.

Driving under the influence, known as DUI in Michigan, is a grave offense that can result in severe consequences. A conviction for DUI may lead to the loss of your driving privileges, community service, substantial fines, and even imprisonment. Beyond the legal ramifications, it can negatively impact your personal life by posing a threat to future job prospects and causing a spike in auto insurance rates. To mitigate these potential penalties, it is crucial to seek guidance from a Grand Rapids DUI lawyer without delay.

Importantly, facing a DUI charge doesn’t automatically translate to a conviction. The state must prove that you have violated one or more Michigan DUI laws. To navigate these legal complexities and avoid the most severe penalties, individuals accused of DUI should promptly consult with a Grand Rapids attorney. A seasoned DUI Attorney in Grand Rapids can provide essential guidance, preparing you for what lies ahead and working to minimize the overall impact of the charges against you.

Grand Rapids DUI Defense Attorney

If you get pulled over by the police, and they inquire about drinking and driving or request you to undergo preliminary blood, breath, or field testing, it’s crucial to contact a lawyer immediately. A Grand Rapids DUI attorney can guide you through the necessary steps if you’re being investigated for DUI, OWI, OUIL, or DWI. Keep in mind that police must have probable cause to believe you’re driving under the influence, typically observing traffic violations, speeding, swerving, or other offenses that suggest impairment.

During a traffic stop, police might ask you to take a chemical test, and refusal could give them probable cause for a DUI arrest. Unfortunately, roadside blood and breath tests can have flaws, potentially leading to wrongful convictions. With the assistance of a seasoned Grand Rapids criminal defense lawyer, you can safeguard yourself from unwarranted consequences. Problems like improper testing procedures, mishandled blood samples, or errors by law enforcement and prosecutors could be grounds to avoid jail time, fines, and driver’s license suspension or revocation.

Components of a DUI Case in Grand Rapids, Michigan

To secure a conviction for DUI, the prosecution must demonstrate that the individual is guilty of one of three offenses: operating a vehicle while under the influence of liquor (OUIL), operating a vehicle with an unlawful blood alcohol level (UBAL), or operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs (OUID). Although the acronyms for these charges may appear similar, the methods of proving them differ significantly.

In an OUIL case, the prosecution is tasked with proving that an individual’s ability to drive was impaired due to alcohol consumption, irrespective of their blood alcohol content level. On the contrary, for cases involving UBAL charges, the state only needs to establish that the individual’s blood alcohol content level exceeded the legal limit of .08%. Unlike an OUIL charge, proving impaired driving abilities is not a requirement for UBAL charges. This underscores the importance of having a DUI attorney in Grand Rapids who can assist in constructing a robust defense.

At John Engman & Associates, P.C., we bring over three decades of invaluable experience in working closely with the Kent County Court systems. Our seasoned team of DUI attorneys in Grand Rapids is well-equipped to provide unmatched legal representation for individuals facing DUI charges. Whether you’re a commercial driver or an individual of any age, we have the knowledge and expertise to guide you through this challenging process.

OUID Allegations

In OWI cases incorporating OUID charges, the prosecution is required to establish that an individual was operating a vehicle while influenced by drugs. This charge may be substantiated by demonstrating that an individual had a prescription drug or a controlled substance in their system. In instances involving prescribed drugs, the prosecution must additionally establish that the specific drug has the potential to impair a person’s driving abilities. However, in cases involving controlled substances like cocaine or marijuana, the prosecution is not obligated to prove impairment of an individual’s driving.

Drunk driving can affect people in a variety of ways.  Sure, you might be looking at some jail time and loss of license.  But, worse yet, you could be looking a losing your CDL, which is how you earn a living. In fact, there are many licenses that are affected when you have drunk driving on your record.  Furthermore, what are you going to tell your colleagues when you are gone and leaving them stranded?

A drunk driving attorney in Grand Rapids assists drivers who have been caught with alcohol in their system. This can be a little or a lot, depending on the situation and type of test that was performed.  Driving while intoxicated is a criminal offense that the courts don’t look at lightly.  It will go on your record and stay there for quite some time.  It can affect all aspects of your life, such as your auto insurance policy as well as your license, and more.

During your free drunk driving attorney in Grand Rapids consultation, our drunk driving lawyers will be able to evaluate the details of your case and determine how to best fight for your rights, freedom, and driving privileges. Continue reading to learn more about the factors that affect drunk driving and DUI cases. Our attorneys will walk you through this difficult process.

Factors That Affect Drunk Driving & DUI

DUI Lawyer Grand RapidsSince so many factors affect the outcome of your case, it’s important that you hire one of our drunk driving attorneys in Grand Rapids as soon as possible. We’ll be able to help you understand the consequences of a DUI conviction and guide your next steps.

You’ll need to hire our DUI lawyers if you:

  • Have prior DUI convictions
  • Are younger than legal drinking age
  • Had passengers(s) in the car under 16 years of age
  • Caused property damage
  • Caused bodily injury or death
  • Had a BAC of 0.17% or higher (super drunk)

DUI Consequences

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Michigan, and the consequences can vary depending on your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level. It’s crucial to be aware of the potential repercussions associated with different BAC levels, as they can significantly impact your life. Here’s a breakdown of DUI consequences in Michigan based on alcohol levels:

BAC Below 0.08%

In Michigan, the legal limit for most drivers is a BAC of 0.08% or higher. However, it’s essential to note that if you’re under 21 years old, you are subject to Michigan’s “zero tolerance” policy, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol in your system is illegal.

Consequences for BAC Below 0.08%

  • Zero Tolerance for Underage Drivers: If you’re under 21 and have any measurable BAC, you can face driver’s license sanctions, fines, community service, and mandatory participation in alcohol education programs.
  • It’s illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. However, Michigan has a “zero tolerance” policy for underage DUI. This means you’re not allowed any alcohol in your system if you’re under 21 years of age. The only exception would be if your BAC was below 0.02% because you participated in a recognized religious service or ceremony.

Consequences of a BAC of 0.08% to 0.16%

For drivers aged 21 and older, a BAC in this range is above the legal limit and can result in various penalties. While consequences may vary based on specific circumstances and prior convictions, you can generally expect the following:

  • Criminal Charges: You may be charged with a misdemeanor DUI offense.
  • License Suspension: Your driver’s license is likely to be suspended for a period ranging from 180 days to one year.
  • Fines: Expect fines that can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.
  • Possible Jail Time: Depending on your case, you could face up to 93 days in jail.
  • Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle.

Consequences of a BAC of 0.17% or Higher (Super Drunk)

Michigan imposes more severe penalties for individuals with a BAC of 0.17% or higher, often referred to as “super drunk” drivers. These consequences are designed to deter high-risk behavior.

  • Criminal Charges: You’ll face charges for a “super drunk” offense, which is a high-level misdemeanor.
  • Extended License Suspension: Your driver’s license can be suspended for up to one year.
  • Significant Fines: Expect substantial fines, potentially reaching thousands of dollars.
  • Jail Time: You may be sentenced to up to 180 days in jail.
  • Mandatory Alcohol Treatment: Courts typically require mandatory participation in alcohol treatment programs.
  • Possible Vehicle Confiscation: Your vehicle may be confiscated, especially if you have prior DUI convictions.

It’s important to remember that these consequences are general guidelines and can vary depending on factors like prior convictions, the presence of passengers under 16 years old, and whether the DUI resulted in property damage or bodily injury. We offer Super Drunk Drive defense attorney services to assist clients.

Navigating the legal complexities of DUI charges in Michigan can be daunting. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges, it’s crucial to consult with experienced Grand Rapids DUI attorneys like John Engman & Associates, P.C., who have a strong track record of defending clients and helping them understand their rights and options whether you need a felony drunk driving attorney or have general questions.  Don’t hesitate to seek legal counsel and protect your future.

CDL DUI Defense Services by John Engman & Associates, P.C.

As a Michigan CDL holder, you are held to a higher standard than regular motorists when it comes to drunk driving charges. A DUI conviction for a commercial driver carries more significant implications than typical fines, jail time, and license suspension. Your livelihood depends on your CDL, making a DUI conviction a serious threat to your career and financial stability. Every day you spend off the road can result in missed business opportunities, leading to lost income and hardships for your family.

Representing Commercial Drivers Facing DUI Charges in Michigan

Michigan law is unforgiving when it comes to CDL violations, and this includes drunk driving cases. It may come as a surprise that CDL holders don’t need to be operating a commercial vehicle for the harsh penalties to apply. Operating any vehicle while impaired or over the legal limit can lead to a CDL DUI conviction.

Some key aspects of CDL DUI laws in Michigan include

  • Commercial drivers are held to a lower bodily alcohol content (BAC) limit to be considered legally drunk, set at 0.04 percent compared to the 0.08 percent limit for other drivers.
  • Refusing to take a breath test or consuming alcohol while operating a commercial vehicle or within four hours prior to driving can lead to an immediate, automatic 24-hour out-of-service penalty.

Consequences of a CDL DUI Conviction in Grand Rapids

For a first-time conviction of any drunk driving charge in Michigan or refusal to submit to a chemical test, your CDL will be suspended for one year. If you were transporting hazardous materials at the time of your arrest, the suspension period increases to three years for a first-time offense. Subsequent offenses, including second and third convictions, may result in the revocation of your CDL for a minimum of ten years.

At John Engman & Associates, P.C., we understand the unique challenges that CDL holders face when charged with a DUI. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing effective legal representation and protecting your CDL and livelihood. Don’t let a CDL DUI jeopardize your future—contact us today for expert defense and guidance. Your livelihood is our priority.

DUI Defense Attorneys in Grand Rapids

Reach out to Michigan’s top defense law firm today to safeguard yourself from a DUI conviction. We’re here to defend our clients against assertive law enforcement and prosecutors in Grand Rapids, and we’ve consistently secured the best outcomes for our clients in numerous previous cases. With over a decade of experience, our attorneys have assisted individuals in overcoming charges of driving under the influence. Our extensive experience provides us with valuable knowledge of drunk driving laws and cases similar to yours.

 

Call the Best Grand Rapids DUI Attorney Today!

Other DUI consequences include spending time in jail, paying fines, having your driver’s license suspended or permanently revoked, losing eligibility for federal student aid, and having difficulty finding employment. These are just some of the many long-term consequences of a DUI or OWVI conviction, which is why it’s important you don’t underestimate your charges. Hire one of our OWVI defense attorneys in Grand Rapids today.

Our drunk driving attorneys in Grand Rapids will fight aggressively for your future. We understand that you may be feeling anxious or even scared about facing drunk driving charges, which is why it’s important to hire one of our drunk driving attorneys as soon as possible.

Our drunk driving lawyers work hard to help you stay out of jail, as well as restore driving privileges. To request a free consultation with one of our drunk driving attorneys in Grand Rapids, MI, call John Engman & Associates, P.C. at (616) 454-5222. Visit our Drunk Driving Attorney law office in Grand Rapids.

Contact Us To Start Moving Forward!

Call us today at (616) 454-5222 and schedule a free initial consultation