Drunk Driving Defense in Michigan

Protecting Your License, Your Record, and Your Freedom

Being charged with drunk driving in Michigan can flip your life upside down in a matter of moments. Whether it’s your first arrest or you’re facing repeat charges, a DUI/OWI can bring serious consequences — from losing your license to serving jail time or dealing with a permanent criminal record. It can also impact your job, insurance, immigration status, and personal reputation.

At Avanti Law, we understand the fear, the uncertainty, and the overwhelming legal system you’re facing. We’ve helped hundreds of clients fight back against drunk driving charges — and we’re ready to help you too.

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Michigan Drunk Driving Charges: What You’re Facing

In Michigan, drunk driving is referred to as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI). Charges are typically based on your blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether this is a first or repeat offense.

Standard OWI (BAC 0.08% or higher):

  • Up to 93 days in jail
  • Up to $500 in fines
  • 6 points on your driver’s license
  • License suspension/restriction
  • Community service, probation, and alcohol treatment

Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI):

  • Lower standard (not based on BAC alone — based on officer’s observations)
  • Up to 93 days in jail
  • Lower fines but still significant long-term consequences

The Super Drunk Law in Michigan

If your BAC is 0.17% or higher, you could be charged under Michigan’s “Super Drunk” Law, even on a first offense.

Super Drunk Penalties Include:

  • Up to 180 days in jail
  • $700 fine
  • License suspension for 45 days, followed by 320 days of restricted license with an ignition interlock device
  • Mandatory alcohol treatment program
  • 6 points on your license Increased insurance rates and employment consequences

Super Drunk charges come with enhanced penalties and are prosecuted aggressively. But they can also be challenged with the right defense.

Repeat Offenses and Felony DUI

A third drunk driving offense in a lifetime is a felony in Michigan, punishable by:

  • 1 to 5 years in prison
  • $500–$5,000 in fines
  • Minimum 30 days in jail
  • Driver’s license revocation
  • Vehicle immobilization or forfeiture

Multiple offenses also result in habitual offender status and greater immigration consequences for non-citizens.

Why Choose Avanti Law for Your DUI Defense

Attorney Raquel Guzman and Victor Jimenez are seasoned Michigan defense lawyers with a record of success in DUI and OWI cases — including Super Drunk and felony-level charges. Our attorneys are known for:

  • Meticulous analysis of arrest procedures and breath/blood tests
  • Challenging unconstitutional traffic stops and police errors
  • Negotiating for dismissals, reduced charges, and avoiding jail
  • Aggressively protecting professional licenses and immigration status
  • Taking cases to trial when needed — and winning

We also understand that many DUI/OWI charges involve underlying addiction or mental health issues, and we approach each case with compassion and discretion.

What You Can Expect From Us

  • Immediate action to protect your driver’s license and driving privileges
  • A customized defense strategy — not a cookie-cutter approach
  • Representation at all hearings, from arraignment to trial
  • Guidance on ignition interlock, sobriety court, and driver’s license restoration
  • Respectful and confidential support — no judgment

Take the First Step Today

If you’ve been charged with OWI, DUI, or are facing a Super Drunk allegation, time matters. You have only 14 days from your arrest to request a hearing to keep your license. Don’t wait.

Call Avanti Law Group now for a free and confidential consultation. Let’s protect what matters most — your freedom, your license, and your future.