DUI / OWI Defense Attorney In Allen Park, Michigan
DUI Charges Are Serious
In Michigan, impaired driving offenses—commonly charged as DUI or OWI (Operating While Intoxicated)—are taken very seriously. If you are accused of operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances, you may face significant consequences. These can include driver’s license suspension, fines, increased insurance costs, mandatory programs, and in some cases, jail time. Even a first offense can have a lasting impact on your record and your ability to drive.
If you are charged with DUI or OWI in Allen Park, Michigan or the surrounding area, it is important to respond quickly and understand your rights. Robert P. Coutts reviews the details of your traffic stop, the administration of field sobriety tests, breath or blood test procedures, and the overall handling of your case to determine the most appropriate defense strategy for your circumstances.
Do not take DUI or OWI charges lightly. Contact the Law Offices of Robert P. Coutts to discuss your situation and learn about the options available to protect your license and your future.
Call Law Offices of Robert P. Coutts at 313-880-3469 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
What is the Difference Between DUI and OWI?
In Michigan, impaired driving offenses are generally charged as DUI or OWI (Operating While Intoxicated). These charges may involve alcohol, illegal substances, or certain prescription medications that affect your ability to drive safely. Regardless of your prior record, a DUI or OWI arrest can carry serious consequences. Penalties may include driver’s license suspension, fines, court costs, probation, required classes or treatment programs, community service, and in some cases, jail time.
Michigan law also recognizes related offenses, such as Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI), which can apply even if a person’s blood alcohol level is below the legal limit but their ability to drive is considered impaired.
Because the stakes are high, it is important to understand the specific charge and the potential consequences you are facing. Robert P. Coutts represents individuals in Allen Park, Michigan who have been charged with DUI or OWI. He reviews the traffic stop, chemical testing procedures, and all evidence involved to determine the most appropriate course of action based on the facts of your case.
If you have been arrested for DUI or OWI, contact the Law Offices of Robert P. Coutts to discuss your situation and learn about the steps you can take to protect your license and your future.
Can I Fight the Results of a Breath or Field Sobriety Test?
Under Michigan’s implied consent law, drivers are considered to have agreed to chemical testing—such as a breath, blood, or urine test—if a police officer has probable cause to believe they are operating a vehicle while intoxicated. During a traffic stop, an officer may also ask you to perform field sobriety tests, such as standing on one leg, walking in a straight line, or following instructions designed to assess coordination and attention.
You do have the right to refuse a chemical test, but a refusal can result in automatic license penalties and additional consequences under Michigan law. If you have refused testing, it is important to act quickly, as strict deadlines may apply to challenge the suspension.
If you submitted to testing, the results are not automatically final or beyond question. Issues such as improper traffic stops, inaccurate field sobriety testing, faulty breathalyzer calibration, medical conditions, or procedural errors can sometimes affect the reliability of the evidence.
Robert P. Coutts represents individuals in Allen Park, Michigan facing DUI or OWI charges. He carefully reviews the circumstances of the stop and the testing procedures to determine the most appropriate defense strategy. If you are dealing with an implied consent issue or DUI/OWI charge, contact the Law Offices of Robert P. Coutts
to discuss your options and protect your driving privileges.
Is It Possible to Get Past DUI Convictions Expunged or Sealed?
Depending on your circumstances and your criminal history, you may be eligible to have certain DUI or OWI convictions set aside under Michigan law. Michigan’s expungement laws have expanded in recent years, and some operating while intoxicated offenses may qualify for a set-aside after a required waiting period, provided specific legal criteria are met. If a conviction is eligible and successfully set aside, it may no longer appear in most public background checks, which can make a meaningful difference when applying for jobs, housing, or professional opportunities. However, eligibility depends on several factors, including the type of offense and your overall record.
Robert P. Coutts works with clients in Allen Park, Michigan to review their record and determine whether they may qualify for expungement or other post-conviction relief. If you have a prior DUI or OWI conviction and want to explore your options, contact the Law Offices of Robert P. Coutts to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI / OWI Charges
What is the difference between DUI and OWI in Michigan?
In Michigan, OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) is the most common charge for impaired driving. It generally refers to operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol level over the legal limit or while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Will I lose my driver’s license after a DUI/OWI arrest?
License penalties depend on the specific charge, prior record, and whether you refused chemical testing. Some suspensions are automatic, but you may have options to challenge certain penalties.
What happens if I refuse a breath or blood test?
Under Michigan’s implied consent law, refusing a chemical test can result in a separate license suspension and other consequences. There are strict deadlines to request a hearing to challenge the suspension.
Can a DUI/OWI charge be reduced or dismissed?
Depending on the facts of the case, including the legality of the traffic stop and testing procedures, charges may be reduced or challenged. Each case requires a careful review of the evidence.
Will a DUI/OWI stay on my record?
A conviction can remain on your driving and criminal record. In some cases, certain offenses may qualify for expungement after a required waiting period under Michigan law.
How soon should I contact an attorney after a DUI/OWI arrest?
Immediately. Early action can help protect your driving privileges and ensure deadlines for hearings or court appearances are met.
Charged with DUI or OWI?
Call The Law Offices of Robert P. Coutts at 313-880-3469 to speak with Robert P. Coutts about your situation. You can call 24/7 for immediate assistance. He will review the details of your arrest, explain your rights under Michigan law, and discuss the options available to protect your license and your future.