Operating While Visibly Impaired

OWVI Attorney Representing Clients in Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, and Throughout the State While Operating While Visibly Impaired

While DUI or OWI charges are cause for concern in the state of Michigan, many individuals fail to consider the serious penalties, which may result from a conviction for OWVI. In order for prosecutors to obtain a conviction for OWVI or Operating While Visibly Impaired, it must be proven that the defendant's ability to operate a motor vehicle in a safe manner was impaired by alcohol. Unlike other DUI offenses, a conviction can rely on results of field sobriety tests, even a common traffic violation - chemical tests such as blood/breath test results are not necessary to obtain a conviction.

As a highly regarded Michigan DUI defense firm, the attorneys at Grabel & Associates work vigorously to provide a strong, effective defense for clients accused of OWVI and other alcohol-related driving offenses. Even if you are successful in beating charges of OWI (Operating While Intoxicated), you may still face charges of OWVI, and the criminal penalties that result from a conviction. Regardless of your situation, our attorneys will fight aggressively through every step of the process. We take pride in our ability to secure positive results for the majority of clients we represent.

Michigan Operating While Visibly Impaired Attorney

Having a capable and experienced lawyer in your corner can make all the difference in the outcome. Our team understands that even for a first offense, the criminal penalties are serious. If you are found to have a BAC (blood alcohol content) of higher than 0.08% while operating a motor vehicle, you may be charged with OWI or DUI. However, it is not required that your BAC be over 0.08% in order for you to be charged with OWVI; the mere fact that a police officer believes it is obvious you are impaired could be enough to lead to charges. We highly recommend that you consult with our highly skilled Michigan DUI defense lawyers if you are being investigated or questioned by police.

Operating While Visibly Impaired is a DUI offense in Michigan that is typically considered less serious than OWI, frequently used for the purpose of plea bargaining. Simply put, there is a lower standard to prove with OWVI than with other drunk driving offenses. Essentially, the prosecutor will attempt to prove that your ability to operate a motor vehicle with care and prudence was reduced as a result of consuming alcohol, controlled substances, or a combination of the two. Unlike with OWI where a jury can presume the defendant's ability to drive safely was affected because of the result of an alcohol test, this is not a factor in OWVI.

Michigan Criminal Penalties for OWVI

The penalties you will face if convicted of OWVI in Michigan are serious, and vary depending on whether it is a first or subsequent offense. Whether a first, second, or third offense, you will face substantial fines, potential jail time, suspension or revocation of your driver's license, vehicle immobilization, driver responsibility fees, and more. For example, a first-time offender may be sentenced to up to 93 days in jail or 360 hours of community service, fines of up to $300, vehicle immobilization, up to 4 demerit points assigned to your driver's license, and more.

At Grabel & Associates, our top priority is to protect our clients from serious criminal penalties. We understand the negative impact these types of charges can have on an individual's life outside of criminal penalties.

Michigan OWVI Defense

Even though you may be charged with OWVI, it does not automatically mean you will be convicted. Our criminal defense lawyers know that there are several options available in terms of an effective legal defense. Depending on the circumstances, it is possible to win in a case involving Operating While Visibly Impaired.

Results of field sobriety tests may be flawed; mistakes can be made in testing procedures, and police must have probable cause to pull someone over on suspicion of DUI. Both police and prosecutors can make mistakes; your constitutional rights may have been violated. Our talented criminal defense attorneys will thoroughly review your case in an effort to find any mistakes that may work to your advantage, or potential weaknesses in the prosecutor's case.

Contact Grabel & Associates Now for Outstanding Criminal Defense in Your OWVI Case

Securing the legal guidance and support of an attorney early on is essential to a good outcome in your Michigan DUI case. Without a lawyer, it's far more likely you will face substantial fines, license suspension, possibly even jail time. We are available 24/7, and ready to assist with your case to ensure positive results. Call our toll free number now for a free consultation at 1-800-342-7896. Contact us online.