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Troy How a DUI Lawyer Could Help
In Michigan, driving under the influence (DUI) is known as operating while intoxicated (OWI). Driving in Troy with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08 and that a person’s ability to safely drive has been impacted by the alcohol. This differs from the separate charge of unlawful blood alcohol level (UBAL) in which a driver has a BAC over 0.08, even if their driving was not affected. Additionally, a person may be charged with being super drunk when their BAC exceeds 0.17.
If you are facing any of drunk driving charges, you may need to consult a lawyer. All these offenses are taken very seriously by police and prosecutors. The prosecutors in Troy and Oakland County are renowned for taking DUI charges very seriously and pursuing stiff penalties. Providing information about how various judges and courts approach OWI charges is just one example of how a Troy DUI lawyer could help. From initial consultation to trial, having a lawyer at your side may seriously make a difference in the outcome of your case.
What is at Stake in a Troy DUI Trial?In Troy, every OWI case is initially brought before the Troy district judge. The district court is the 52nd fourth division on Big Beaver, and any misdemeanor or felony case begins at that district court. If the case is a felony, it could eventually be brought to the Oakland County Circuit Court; however, most drunk driving charges are first and second offenses, which will likely remain before the judges in Troy.
An OWI case would be prosecuted by either the city attorney, their staff, the county attorney representing the state of Michigan and their staff. Depending on the outcome of the initial court processes, a driver could be sentenced to probation in the district court, and they will likely remain in the district court the entire time that their case is active.
OWI charges in Michigan cannot be easily expunged as the state legislature has made OWI charges nearly permanent on convicted drivers’ records. In addition to having a record, drivers convicted of OWIs may also be barred from maintaining or obtaining a concealed pistol license, a driver’s license, and jobs that require specific licensures.
An OWI conviction could also result in probation with a multitude of conditions such as, community service, counseling, and treatment programs, as well as testing, which can be expensive and time-consuming. There is also the possibility of jail in some cases. Another way how a Troy DUI attorney could help a defendant is by developing a strategy to help mitigate or eliminate these severe consequences.
Four Common Ways Attorneys Help in OWI Cases Serve as a SpokespersonAn OWI lawyer can be their client’s spokesperson and zealously defend their interests against the prosecuting attorney and the police officers. Drivers facing OWI charges should always try their best to retain an attorney who can expertly advocate on their behalf.
Attorneys can demonstrate excellence in criminal defense by being well-versed in OWI laws in the state of Michigan. Local knowledge of the City of Troy and familiarity with the various prosecuting attorneys and judges and their tendencies may help bolster the case.
Challenge Breathalyzer ResultsA highly competent OWI lawyer understands the science involved in OWI cases and how the evidence collected by the prosecution is their attempt to make a scientific case against the driver. The UBAL threshold of 0.08 grams is not a scientific standard, making it essential for OWI lawyers to challenge breathalyzer test results or blood samples that the prosecution may present as incontrovertible fact. Providing a thorough understanding of field sobriety testing and the scientific studies about their accuracy to refute the prosecution or police officer’s claims is just another way how a Troy OWI attorney could assist defendants.
Lead Negotiation and Potentially Avoid TrialAttorneys should also be able to provide their clients with superior negotiating skills in order to resolve the case as favorably as possible and avoid trial. Agreements are often reached when the prosecution feels that the defense has a legally sound and scientific case that will likely compel the judge. Having an attorney who is prepared for trial but who will also capitalize on opportunities to negotiate can help ensure that the driver’s case reaches the best possible resolution.
Advocate for the Person, not Just the DriverOWI lawyers should provide their clients with compassionate counsel not only about their case and the legal process, but also about how they can navigate the personal challenges that OWI charges often present. A skilled attorney will know how to direct clients who may need or want alcohol abuse treatment, help traveling to and from work if their license has been suspended, or simply a nonjudgmental listening ear for their questions and concerns. Criminal trial process can be very difficult and bring many changes in a driver’s life, but an attorney could help provide needed assistance.
Why Law Enforcement is Cracking Down on Troy DUIsTroy is a pleasant area with many options for fine dining and social drinking. The police are aware of when and where people often leave those establishments, and they patrol at those times and places to ensure that drunk drivers are stopped before they can cause damage or harm.
One of the primary reasons Troy officials focus on enforcing OWI laws is because injuries, deaths, and accidents from drunk driving are completely preventable. To deter drivers from getting behind the wheel after drinking, law enforcement makes it no secret that OWIs are heavily penalized, and drivers facing OWI charges can incur addition fees for the time spent on their arrest, blood tests, and even attorney’s fees for the prosecution.
Drunk driving can drastically alter or end people’s lives. The prosecuting attorneys in Oakland County have a reputation for taking hardline stances for OWI cases and often do not assist accused drivers in any way or offer reasonable deals. The judges in Troy who hear OWI cases are active participants in proceedings who scrutinize scientific evidence and have their own distinct ruling tendencies.
Contact a Lawyer to Help With Your Troy OWI ChargeIn Troy, the laws themselves regarding drunk driving do not differ drastically from the rest of the state, but those laws are enforced more heavily and prosecuted more aggressively. Troy has strict laws about distracted driving but otherwise adheres to state laws regarding drunk driving. However, the Troy Police Department prioritizes its efforts to stop drunk drivers leading to stiff penalties. Call an experienced criminal defense firm to find out all the ways how a Troy DUI lawyer could help. Legal counsel could apply their knowledge and skill to fight for the best outcome in your case.