Felony DUI Attorney

Arrested for DUI in Flint? Contact Our Law Office Immediately!

Being arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs doesn't strip you of your legal rights. The repercussions of DUI/DWI charges in Michigan are severe, potentially altering your life drastically. This is precisely why securing the expertise of a seasoned Flint DUI attorney is critical. Such a professional can bring years of experience to the table and will know how to safeguard your rights. Remember, despite the gravity of the situation, you have entitlements under the law, and a qualified attorney is essential for a robust defense and successful outcome.

Attorney Rick Hetherington is dedicated to safeguarding the rights of clients facing DUI charges in the greater Flint area. He will thoroughly examine the specifics of your case and develop a legal strategy to help you steer clear of potential jail time, costly fines, and other grave DUI consequences. Visit our Michigan law office to discover how his experience and extensive resources can comprehensively address every aspect of your DUI case.

If you were arrested for driving under the influence, be sure to contact a seasoned Flint DUI lawyer from CFlegal, PC.. Contact us online or dial (810) 292-3115.

Immediate Steps After a DUI Arrest in Flint, MI

If you have been arrested for DUI, remember the following things when interacting with law enforcement officers:

• Under the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, you have the right to remain silent if you are detained by police. If police accuse you of driving under the influence, you should exercise this right by not answering any questions until you are able to consult with an experienced Flint DUI lawyer.
• Under the Sixth Amendment of the United States Constitution, you have the right to a speedy public trial. The Sixth Amendment also gives you the right to be represented by a lawyer. If you want to build a strong DUI defense, you will need to assert your Sixth Amendment rights.

Understanding Michigan's DUI/OWI Laws and Penalties

In the state of Michigan, OWI, which stands for operating while intoxicated, is recognized and strictly prohibited. Whenever you assume control of a vehicle, you become subject to various OWI and drunk driving laws that govern the permissible alcohol consumption. Law enforcement can employ a breathalyzer or other chemical tests to measure your blood alcohol content (BAC) and assess your level of intoxication.

The legal BAC limit at which you can be charged with a DUI varies based on your age:

• If you are 21 years or older, driving with a BAC level of .08% or higher is illegal.
• For drivers under the age of 21, driving with a BAC level higher than .02% is illegal.

Moreover, operating a motor vehicle with any trace of a Schedule 1 drug or cocaine in your system can lead to an OWI charge without requiring proof of impairment. It is crucial to be aware of and adhere to these regulations to avoid serious legal consequences.

Penalties for a first-time OWI/DUI conviction in Flint, MI can vary depending upon how much alcohol was consumed.

If the Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is below .17 and it's a first offense, the following penalties apply:

• Fine: Up to $500
• Jail time: Up to 93 days
• Community service: Up to 360 hours
• License suspension: Up to 180 days
• Points on driver's license: 6

However, if the BAC is .17 or higher for a first offense, the penalties are as follows:

• Fine: Up to $700
• Jail time: Up to 180 days
• Community service: Up to 360 hours
• License suspension: Up to one year
• Points on driver's license: 6
• Mandatory completion of an alcohol treatment program
• Requirement of an ignition interlock device after 45 days of license suspension to receive a restricted driver's license. Convicted drunk drivers have limited driving privileges and must use an approved and properly installed ignition interlock device. They are responsible for all installation and maintenance costs for the device.

Additionally, a first-time breath test refusal results in an automatic one-year driver's license suspension. For a second refusal within seven years, the suspension extends to two years.

Furthermore, under the Driver Responsibility Act, convicted drunk drivers face a $1,000 penalty for two consecutive years, totaling $2,000 in additional costs.

Local Flint Resources for DUI Defense

When facing a felony DUI charge in Flint, MI, it's crucial to understand the local resources and entities that can play a role in your defense. The Flint Police Department and the Genesee County Circuit Court are key institutions involved in DUI cases. While these entities are not partners, knowing their procedures and protocols can benefit your defense strategy.

Flint residents often face unique challenges when dealing with DUI charges. The city's high-traffic areas, such as the intersections near Miller Road and Ballenger Highway, are frequently monitored by law enforcement for impaired driving. Additionally, the local community has expressed concerns about the impact of DUI offenses on public safety and the legal repercussions that follow.

Our law office is well-versed in the specific pain points that Flint residents encounter. We understand the stress of potential jail time, hefty fines, and the long-term impact on your driving record. Our team is committed to providing a robust defense tailored to the local legal landscape. We are familiar with the nuances of Flint's legal system and can guide you through every step of the process, from your initial arrest to court appearances.

By leveraging our knowledge of Flint's local resources and legal environment, we aim to help you navigate the complexities of a felony DUI charge. Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome.