Strong Defense Against Drunk Driving Charges
Driving under the influence (generally called operating while intoxicated, or OWI, in Michigan) is a serious crime. It can happen to anyone from any walk of life, and even for first offenses the penalties can be severe. Further, the damage to your reputation and your future could be catastrophic. Make sure you fight against these charges aggressively with the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
At Lyke Law PLLC in East Lansing, Attorney Kristina Lyke fights for people facing OWI and related charges. With a wealth of experience, an aggressive approach to advocacy and a compassionate approach to providing legal care for her clients, attorney Lyke is a respected, effective criminal defense attorney when you’re up against intoxicated driving charges.
Alcohol And Driving Crimes In Michigan
The penalties for OWI vary in Michigan, depending on the amount of alcohol in the blood, the number of previous convictions and other factors. This is not a comprehensive list, but it will give you an idea of the various penalties for an OWI conviction in Michigan:
- First offense: A first conviction of OWI could bring up to three months in jail, $500 in fines and other penalties.
- First offense with high blood-alcohol count: If you are arrested for driving while intoxicated, and your blood-alcohol content was measured at .17 or higher, you could face up to six months in jail and a $700 fine.
- Third offense: A third conviction for driving while intoxicated is considered a felony in Michigan and it could result in $5,000 and five years in prison.
- If you kill someone in an auto accident due to intoxicated driving: You could receive a sentence of 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.
- OWI for underage drivers: The penalties for a first-offense OWI for people under the age of 21 is up to $250 in fines, a restricted driver’s license for a month and other penalties. You could face jail time for a second offense.
Each type of charge also carries the possibility of losing your driving privileges. Attorney Kristina Lyke will fight to help you keep your license. But you have to act fast, as there are strict time limits for filing a petition to retain your license.
Innocent Until Proven Guilty
A critical tenet of criminal law in the United States is that people accused of crimes are to be presumed innocent until they are proven guilty in a court of law. However, most people accused of a crime already feel guilty, often due to poor treatment by the police and the people around them.
Do not assume that you will be found guilty of OWI. In many cases, the worst possibility is pleading down to lesser charges. With due diligence, there may be some error in the arrest or blood test that will result in a not guilty verdict or having the case thrown out. Before you assume you will be convicted, talk with Attorney Lyke.
Contact Us Today
Fight aggressively against criminal charges involving intoxicated driving. Call 517-306-4495 or email the firm to schedule a free initial consultation.