https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1OO-Yb0S2IIdhZXnnHCj3RLjyAOfmc95PNruVZdC8TcI https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1OO-Yb0S2IIdhZXnnHCj3RLjyAOfmc95PNruVZdC8TcI

FACING A DUI/DWI CHARGE?

A simple night out with friends, a few too many drinks, an ill-advised decision to get behind the wheel, and suddenly you see lights flashing behind you.  This is the simple equation that leads up to a charge of "Driving While Intoxicated".

During such a critical time, the complexity of laws and court procedure can quickly become overwhelming.  If you've been charged with DWI, your first instinct may be to plead guilty, to "just get it over with," but before making a rash, uninformed decision that could lead to life-long implications, there are a few important things to consider.

Should I just Plead Guilty?

The fact is, many people charged with DWI plead guilty, or no contest, simply because they want it to "go away fast."  However, even a first-time DWI conviction might never go away.  In fact, your conviction may follow you around for the rest of your life, impacting your present job, your driving record, and even your ability to obtain certain education and employment.  A conviction can potentially limit, permanently, your future earning potential.
Sadly, many who plead guilty right off the bat didn't realize that, with the proper representation, the charges could possibly have been dismissed, reduced, or resulted in acquittal.

What Penalties Am I Facing?

In Michigan, the penalties of DWI are growing more and more severe.  Even a first-time conviction now carries heavy consequences, the least of which is automatically suspending your license.

Should I Hire a Lawyer?

Consider this, the prosecutor has sworn an oath to zealously represent his/her client (the city/county/state), are you willing to risk putting your future solely in their hands?  
If simply the cost of hiring a lawyer is your concern, bear in mind the fines you're facing.  In addition to those listed above, your auto insurance rates may spike, and your policy may even be canceled.  A seasoned DWI lawyer can possibly plea bargain down those fines and protect your driving record. 
Taking all of these things into consideration, the question really is, "Can you afford not to hire a lawyer?"

Does it Matter Which Attorney I Call?

While it's true that any old lawyer can sit next to you as you plead guilty, it's crucial that you choose someone with extensive experience in defending DWI.  Considering what hangs in the balance, this isn't the best time to bargain-shop for the cheapest guy in town.
The Michigan Legal Team recognizes the impact a DWI conviction will have on your life.  As your "Champion in the Courtroom", we look at every strategy possible for dismissal, reduction of penalties, or even acquittal after trial, by carefully reviewing all the aspects of your case, even how the evidence against you was collected. 

To have our Team's DWI specialist review your case today, fill out our Contact Form, or call 248-353-3600, or 877-MICH-TEAM.

  

Helpful Links:

Blood Alcohol Calculator

"What Every Driver Must Know" 

In a future post look for the answers to these questions:

How many drinks put you over the limit?

How do the new laws affect drivers?

What do the acronyms DUI DWI, OUI, OWI stand for?

What if you refuse to take a chemical test in Michigan?     

Can you plead to a lesser offense than OWI?