Charges for a Third OWI Offense in Michigan
You will be charged with a felony if you are arrested for drunk/drugged driving after having 2 or more prior convictions for drunk/drugged driving. Once again, the elements of the crime are the same as a first offense or second offense. However, because a third or subsequent offense is considered a felony, you will be facing extended time in jail:
- Felony punishable by not less than 1 year or more than 5 years.
a. Minimum 30 days may be ordered with probation to follow - Probation up to 5 years
- $500.00 – $5,000.00 fine
- Community service for not less than 60 days or more than 180 days
- Upon release from jail, alcohol tether may be required.
- Alcohol/Drug Education Classes
- Vehicle Forfeiture
In addition, you will face some form of sanction from the Secretary of State regarding your driver’s license. This sanction could range from 90 days of a restricted license to a 5 YEAR revocation of your license. To determine the appropriate amount of time, you will need a copy of your master driving record. Your attorney can review your records to determine the applicable license sanction.
Few jurisdictions offer plea deals on third offense OWI cases. Therefore, the options for the best outcome are entry to a Sobriety Court or fighting the case out. Each courthouse/judge reacts to these matters differently. For this reason, you need attorneys who have handled felony OWI matters in front of these circuit court judges to know how they think. Our attorneys have developed outstanding reputations in front of these judges. Our strategy of blending legal arguments with your own personal story of recovery has proven to be successful in numerous cases.
In the event you find yourself looking at a third or subsequent offense OWI, you cannot afford to look elsewhere. Call the Macomb Law Group today to schedule your FREE consultation. We are ready to listen to your story and craft your path to success, together!
