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Avoo Rating, 10.0 Scott Grabel
Top 10, Attorney and Practice Magazine's, Criminal Defense Law Firm

First Offense OWI Lawyer in Ann Arbor

For first time offenders in drunk driving cases, the potential penalties you will face are very severe, and no matter what the specific details of your case, it is essential that you contact a defense attorney in Ann Arbor as soon as you can to begin fighting for a favorable case outcome. Statewide, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level over 0.08%, and if caught operating a motor vehicle with an illegal blood alcohol content level, you will be assumed to be impaired and can be convicted of OWI in Ann Arbor. Even if you are not driving with an illegal BAC, however, you could still face drunk driving charges, if an officer believes that you are impaired based on other observations.

Operating While Intoxicated First Offense

If you operate a motor vehicle in any area open to the public while under the influence of alcohol, you can be charged with OWI. According to Michigan law, this not only includes highways, but local traffic roads, parking lots, and anywhere else that vehicles are allowed to drive.

One of the primary ways that police and prosecutors establish whether or not a person is impaired by alcohol is blood alcohol content. The BAC limit in Michigan is 0.08% for regular drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for persons under the age of 21. If you have a BAC over these allowed amounts, or if erratic driving and other indicators suggest you are intoxicated, you can be convicted of OWI.

While repeat offenders face severely enhanced penalties, even a first offense drunk driving charge in Ann Arbor can lead to significant punishment. It is crucial that you contact an attorney right away if you are facing a first offense OWI, Zero Tolerance OWI, or first offense refusal of a BAC test charge.

Criminal Penalties for 1st OWI in Ann Arbor

If you are convicted of drunk driving and do not have any prior convictions on record, you could face the following penalties:

  • Jail time: up to 93 days
  • Fine: Up to $500
  • Driver’s License Suspension: Up to 6 Months
  • Driver’s License Reinstatement Fees
  • Ignition Interlock Installation
  • Criminal Record

In addition, your offense will remain relevant for sentencing purposes for 7 years after your offense, and any other infractions within that period will be treated as repeat offender charges.

If you are underage and drive with a BAC over 0.08%, you could face the above penalties. If your BAC is between 0.02% and 0.08%, you could still face lengthy community service, fines, and license sanctions. If you are accused of refusing a breath test, your license could be automatically suspended for one year, if it is your first offense.

Drunk Driving Defense Lawyer in Ann Arbor

In any Michigan DUI case, there are numerous mistakes that can be made by police during investigation and arrest that could potentially lead to wrongful conviction, and only by working with an experienced attorney can you be sure you have done all you can to protect yourself from harsh criminal punishment. Grabel & Associates is recognized as one of the top drunk driving defense firms in Michigan, and our highly acclaimed attorneys are available right now to help you begin fighting for the best possible case result.

Our team has been helping Ann Arbor clients achieve case dismissals, reduced charges or sentences, and court victories for over 10 years, and we have proven our DUI defense skill in countless past cases. Contact our team now for a free initial case consultation and find out more about how our proven approach to drunk driving defense can help you in your unique case. We are available to begin working with you 24/7.

Our Approach to Ann Arbor First Offender Drunk Driving Cases

While any criminal charge is stressful, the first charge you face is usually even more daunting, especially with so much on the line. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to alleviating as much stress as possible by walking you through exactly what you need to do to obtain a favorable result, and keeping you informed on what outcomes are possible in your unique case. We are committed to providing individualized criminal defense strategies in all drunk driving cases, and we will immediately begin doing all we can to protect your rights and defend your freedom. Contact our firm now for a free initial case consultation and begin your fight for justice.

Contact Grabel & Associates for 24/7 OWI Defense

To speak with an OWI defense lawyer in Ann Arbor, Michigan, call 1-800-342-7896 or contact Grabel & Associates online now. View our proven results to see why we have earned a reputation as one of the top firms for first offense OWI cases, and don’t hesitate to contact us so that we can provide you with answers to any questions you may have about your case.

Client Reviews

★★★★★
If you are reading these reviews you are about to make a decision that will have a large impact on the rest of your life. I choose Grabel and Associates to represent me in my case and I could not have been more satisfied with the level of professionalism and dedication to their clients. I had the opportunity to meet and work with multiple lawyers in the practice all of which showcased a vast knowledge and understanding of the inner workings of the legal system. When you choose Scott Grabel to represent you will open yourself up to all of his resources. Depending on your case Grabel knows experts in all fields. I worked with polygraph examiners, investigators, and forensics experts. Grabel and Associates will defend without prejudice of innocence or guilt. Scott Grabel was able to lead me through every step of the process with great communication the whole way. I would recommend Scott Grabel and Associates to my friends, family and anyone who is in need of representation. B. A.
★★★★★
Best attorney in state of Michigan. Caring and a true friend. Scott was with us every step of the way. He fought for a great injustice for our son and was able to provide an outcome that gave his life back. L. A.
★★★★★
Scott and his firm did an awesome job representing a family member of mine, I would highly recommend him and his firm! They were extremely reliable, trustworthy and very informative and did a great job with the case. I couldn't be happier with the results that we received, I can't speak highly enough about the great job he did. If you are thinking about using his firm, I would highly recommend, I would definitely use his firm again if needed, he is an a great attorney with a great firm, you won't be disappointed! M. F.
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