Drunk Driving Causing Death Defense in Michigan

High-Stakes Representation. Compassionate Counsel. Relentless Advocacy.

A charge of Operating While Intoxicated Causing Death (OWI Causing Death) is among the most serious criminal offenses in Michigan. It carries not only steep legal penalties but also immense emotional, social, and personal consequences. If you or someone you love is facing this charge, your future, freedom, and reputation are on the line — and you need an attorney who is experienced, strategic, and unafraid to fight for you.

At Avanti Law Group, we know that not every tragic accident is a criminal act. We understand the heartbreak and fear that come with being involved in a fatal crash, and we are here to help you navigate the legal system.

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Understanding Operating While Intoxicated Causing Death Under Michigan Law

Under MCL 257.625(4), a person who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs — or with an unlawful bodily alcohol content (BAC of 0.08 or higher) — and causes the death of another person, including a passenger, pedestrian, or another driver, can be charged with OWI Causing Death, a felony.

Penalties for OWI Causing Death in Michigan

This offense carries severe criminal penalties, including:

  • Up to 15 years in prison
  • Fines ranging from $2,500 to $10,000
  • Mandatory license revocation
  • Vehicle forfeiture or immobilization
  • Restitution to the victim’s family
  • A permanent felony record
  • Immigration consequences, including deportation, for non-citizens

If the victim is a police officer, firefighter, or other first responder, the potential prison sentence increases to 20 years.

What You’re Up Against — And Why the Right Defense Matters

The prosecution will often build a case based on toxicology reports, accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and assumptions about your intent. But the truth is, every case is unique — and many involve complex factors such as:

  • Faulty testing or improper BAC procedures
  • Medical emergencies mistaken for impairment
  • Inaccurate field sobriety tests
  • Road conditions or third-party negligence
  • No actual impairment at the time of the accident

We dig deep into the evidence, challenge flawed assumptions, and build a defense that tells the whole story — not just the version the prosecution wants the jury to hear.

Why Choose Avanti Law Group

Attorney Raquel Guzman and our criminal defense team bring:

  • Years of experience handling high-stakes felony OWI cases, including those involving death or serious injury
  • Proven results — including dismissals, reduced charges, favorable sentencing and not-guilty verdicts
  • An understanding of how these charges impact immigrants, non-citizens, and bilingual clients
  • Compassionate representation that acknowledges the legal and human toll of what you’re facing
  • A track record of taking complex cases to trial — and winning

We’re not here to judge you. We’re here to fight for you.

What Happens Next

If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for drunk driving causing death:

  1. Do not speak to police or prosecutors without an attorney
  2. Contact our office immediately — time is critical
  3. Let us begin preserving evidence, interviewing witnesses, and protecting your rights

Facing OWI Causing Death Charges? Don’t Face Them Alone.

This is likely the hardest moment of your life — and the most important decision you’ll make is who you choose to defend you.

Call Avanti Law Group today to schedule a confidential, no-judgment consultation. We’re here to listen, to advise, and to fight for the best possible outcome — no matter how serious the charge.

Call now. We’re ready to help.