Every year, car accidents, serious injuries, and fatalities are caused by drunk and drugged driving. This deadly problem costs the country millions of dollars and incalculable sums of human suffering. In response, law enforcement takes this crime very seriously, and agencies in every state make catching intoxicated drivers a top priority.
Michigan prosecutes drunk driving charges aggressively, and anti-drunk driving legislation gives judges the right to sentence even first-time offenders to jail time at their discretion.
Although many DUIs and OWIs are misdemeanor offenses, Michigan law provides that felony charges be brought against certain repeat offenders and under other unique circumstances. Felony DUI/OWI charges are brought anytime an offender causes serious injury or death, and when an offender has two or more previous DUIs on their record. If you’ve been charged with a felony DUI, you’re facing even harsher penalties and stiffer fines than most DUI defendants. It’s important to contact an experienced Lansing DUI defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin building your defense.
According to Section 257.625 of Michigan’s Vehicle Code, it is illegal to “drive or be in actual physical control of any moving vehicle while intoxicated.” This could mean “under the influence of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance or a combination of alcoholic liquor, a controlled substance, or other intoxicating substance.”
People who are convicted pursuant to this section may face:
Facing felony criminal charges is stressful, scary, and overwhelming for defendants and their families. You don’t know what the future holds, and you may not know how to prepare for it. Your lawyer is there to answer any and every question you may have and to be your guide, support, and advocate through the criminal justice process. She will explain your charges and the possible outcomes of your case. Most importantly, your lawyer will fight for and protect your interests, ensuring that your rights are upheld and that your case is resolved as favorably as possible.
Every case is different, but your DUI defense attorney may:
These are just a few of the many ways that a Lansing felony DUI attorney will help you navigate your charges. To find out more about how a lawyer can help you and to begin having your case evaluated, contact DeBruin Law, PLLC, at 517-324-4303 .
