DUI Laws and Penalties

Understanding Michigan's Drunk Driving Statutes and Consequences

Navigating Michigan's Drunk Driving Offenses

In Michigan, drunk driving is primarily divided into two offenses: Operating While Intoxicated (OWI/DUI) and Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI). Understanding the distinction between these charges is critical to your defense. Krupp Law Offices P.C. has been providing quality drunk driving defense in Grand Rapids for over 85 years. If you are facing charges, our attorneys provide immediate answers and strategic representation.

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Operating While Intoxicated (OWI)

The prosecutor must prove you operated a motor vehicle with a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher. This is the more serious of the two standard charges.

Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI)

A lesser offense where the prosecutor proves your ability to operate the vehicle was visibly weakened due to alcohol consumption, typically with a BAC between .05 and .08.

Statutory Penalties

Offense	Jail Time	Fines	Community Service
1st Offense OWI	Up to 93 Days	Up to $500	Up to 45 Days
1st Offense OWVI	Up to 90 Days	Up to $300	Up to 45 Days
2nd Offense (within 7 yrs)	Up to 1 Year	Up to $1,000	30–90 Days
3rd Offense (Felony)	1 to 5 Years	Up to $5,000	Probation/Service

Should I take the Breathalyzer?

In Michigan, "Implied Consent" laws mean that failure to take a chemical test (Breathalyzer or DataMaster) after a lawful arrest results in an automatic 1-year license suspension with no restricted license available for the first 30 days. Most attorneys recommend submitting to the test if you have no previous arrests to avoid these harsh administrative sanctions.

Former Prosecutors on Your Side

Attorneys George Krupp and Christian Krupp are former assistant prosecutors with extensive experience in DUI litigation. We represent clients throughout Kent, Ottawa, Allegan, Barry, Newaygo, Montcalm, and Ionia counties.

DUI Topics

Detailed Penalties License Sanctions Super Drunk (.17+) Laws Under 21 Zero Tolerance Driver Responsibility Fees

85+ Years Experience

Serving Grand Rapids and West Michigan with "Straight Talk" legal advice.

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Krupp Law Offices P.C. is a Grand Rapids Attorney represents clients in Grand Rapids and all West Michigan Courts, including Kent County, Ottawa County, Newaygo County, Ionia County, Mecosta County, Barry County, Montcalm County, and Allegan County, Michigan.