Open Container Intoxicants in Motor Vehicle

OWI Lawyer Defending Misdemeanor Intoxicants in Motor Vehicle Charges in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Throughout Michigan

In Michigan, transporting alcohol or intoxicants in an open container is illegal; if charged and convicted, you may face criminal penalties. When a motorist is pulled over by law enforcement and found to have an open container containing alcohol, police will likely charge you with a misdemeanor offense. At Grabel & Associates, we strongly suggest you obtain the services of a skilled lawyer in order to avoid criminal punishment, including restrictions on your freedom. As highly regarded Michigan DUI attorneys across the state, we take a personal approach, working one-on-one with our clients in order to determine your legal options, and the best way to proceed in order to secure the desired result. You may have questions or concerns regarding open container charges; we are here to help, and committed to assisting you throughout every stage of the process.

Essentially, open container laws exist in an effort to deter motorists from driving while consuming alcoholic beverages. If intoxicants are found in a motor vehicle while the vehicle is moving, you may be ticketed and could potentially face consequences including fines and jail time. Having an open container in a moving vehicle could lead to OUIL charges. It is critical you obtain the support and legal guidance of an experienced drunk driving attorney to protect you from a wrongful conviction, and the resulting criminal penalties, which may be harsh. Whether you are facing OWI, DUI, or OUIL charges, Grabel & Associates is an unsurpassed choice in terms of experience, legal skill, and dedication to outstanding results.

Michigan Open Container Laws

Consuming alcohol while in a motor vehicle is illegal in Michigan, whether the driver or passenger is drinking. State law requires that any open alcohol containers are stored in the trunk, so they are not at easy access to those inside the vehicle. Any container of alcohol in a vehicle should not be uncapped, open, or have a broken seal. This applies not only to roadways and interstates, but parking lots or any area that the public has access to. Open containers may be stored in a locked glove compartment for transport if your vehicle does not have a trunk. It may also be transported behind the last upright seat of your vehicle, or in an area not easily accessible to the driver of the vehicle, or any passenger. Harsh criminal punishment may result if you fail to comply with Michigan open intoxicant regulations. Michigan Penal Code Section 257.624a provides more information regarding the state's open intoxicant laws.

Whether you suspect that you may be charged with an open container offense or have already been arrested or charged, we are capable and ready to provide the legal guidance and representation you need, guiding you through every stage of the process. Contact us at once so we can begin work on your case.

Open Container Criminal Penalties in Michigan

Transporting intoxicants in a motor vehicle, which are open, can lead to misdemeanor charges; if convicted, you may face penalties including a $500 fine and up to 93 days in jail. Additionally, you could be charged with OUIL, OWI, or another drunk driving offense, depending on the reason police pulled you over and whether it is suspected your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle is impaired. This could put you at risk for enhanced punishment and additional penalties.

We cannot stress enough the importance of contacting an attorney immediately regardless of the alcohol charges you face. You must have capable legal counsel who will fight aggressively to protect your legal rights. While having a skilled lawyer in the initial stages of a DUI case is vital, our firm will represent your case regardless of whether you have been charged or even convicted.

Contact Michigan Open Container Defense Firm Grabel & Associates Now

An open container charge can, and often does, lead to more serious DUI charges. If you or someone you know has been caught with intoxicants in a motor vehicle, contact the winning defense team at Grabel & Associates immediately. You may contact us online, or call our toll free number 24/7 at 1-800-342-7896 to speak with our knowledgeable case analyst. Avoid an open intoxicant conviction by contacting our criminal defense firm immediately; we are ready to fight for you.