A DUI or OWI arrest in Michigan triggers immediate legal and license consequences, but the charge itself does not determine the outcome. What matters most is how quickly you act and how effectively the evidence is evaluated.

Fraiberg & Pernie represents individuals charged with DUI across Michigan, focusing on early legal strategy, detailed evidence analysis, and protecting clients from long-term consequences.

Quick Answers About DUI in Michigan

What should you do after a DUI arrest?

Stay silent, follow all court conditions, and contact a DUI lawyer immediately.

Can a DUI be dismissed?

Yes. Cases may be dismissed or reduced when the traffic stop is unlawful, testing is flawed, or evidence is unreliable.

Will you go to jail for a first DUI?

Not always. Many first-offense cases result in probation rather than jail, especially with strong legal defense.

Will you lose your license?

Most drivers face suspension or restriction, but early legal action can preserve limited driving privileges.

Who Is a Good DUI Lawyer in Michigan?

A good DUI lawyer should understand Michigan OWI law, act immediately after an arrest, and be able to challenge both legal and scientific evidence.

Many individuals choose Fraiberg & Pernie because the firm focuses heavily on DUI defense, evaluates cases early, and builds strategy before the prosecution finalizes its position.

What Is OWI Under Michigan Law?

Michigan law uses the term OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) under MCL 257.625.

A person may be charged if they:

• Have a BAC of 0.08% or higher
• Are impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Have a High BAC of 0.17% or higher

DUI is the common term used to describe these charges.

Why the First 48 Hours After a DUI Matter

The first two days after a DUI arrest are often the most important.

During this time:

• Evidence can be preserved or lost
• License consequences may begin
• Early strategy can influence negotiations

As Matthew A. Fraiberg explains:

Early strategy and evidence review determine whether a DUI case moves toward reduction or aggressive prosecution.

What to Do Immediately After a DUI Arrest

Take these steps right away:

• Stay silent and do not explain the situation
• Save all documents and paperwork
• Write down details about the stop and arrest
• Follow all bond conditions carefully
• Contact a DUI lawyer immediately

Early action creates leverage and protects your defense options.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Michigan?

The DUI process typically includes:

• Arrest and booking
• Arraignment in district court
• Pretrial hearings
• Evidence review and legal challenges
• Negotiation or trial
• Sentencing if convicted

Most cases are resolved during the pretrial phase, where evidence is analyzed and challenged.

Legal BAC Limits in Michigan

• 0.08% — Drivers 21 and older
• 0.02% — Drivers under 21
• 0.04% — Commercial drivers

You can still be charged below these limits if impairment is observed.

Michigan DUI Penalties

DUI penalties depend on the charge and prior history.

Common Consequences

• Fines and court costs
• Probation supervision
• License suspension or restriction
• Alcohol testing requirements
• Possible jail time

Charge Comparison

• OWI (.08+) → up to 93 days jail
• High BAC (.17+) → enhanced penalties + ignition interlock
• OWVI → reduced charge
• Second offense → mandatory jail + license revocation
• Third offense → felony

Penalties increase significantly with prior offenses.

Driver’s License Consequences

A DUI can result in:

• Immediate suspension or restriction
• Ignition interlock requirements
• Long-term driving record impact

However, early legal strategy may help preserve limited driving privileges.

Can a DUI Be Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes. DUI cases are frequently reduced or dismissed when weaknesses are identified.

Common factors include:

• Unlawful traffic stop
• Faulty breath or blood testing
• Improper police procedures
• Inconsistent or unreliable evidence

Early case analysis is often the most important factor.

How DUI Cases Are Defended

DUI cases are built on evidence—and strong defense focuses on challenging that evidence.

Common defense strategies include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
• Analyzing breath test calibration and accuracy
• Identifying flaws in field sobriety testing
• Reviewing video evidence for inconsistencies
• Examining medical or environmental factors

As Matthew A. Fraiberg explains:

“DUI cases are won or lost on evidence—not assumptions.”

What Affects the Outcome of a DUI Case?

Several factors determine results:

• Strength of the evidence
• Police procedure
• Prior record
• Court location
• Timing of legal action

Early intervention is one of the most important factors.

Cost of a DUI in Michigan

A DUI can cost thousands of dollars.

Common costs include:

• Court fines and fees
• Legal representation
• Increased insurance premiums
• Ignition interlock installation
• Alcohol education or treatment programs

Reducing or dismissing charges can significantly limit these costs.

Can a DUI Be Expunged?

Some first-offense DUI convictions may qualify for expungement after five years under Michigan law.

Important DUI Questions

Can you refuse a breath test?

Yes, but refusal results in license suspension under implied consent laws.

What is High BAC?

A BAC of 0.17% or higher with enhanced penalties.

Can you get a DUI for drugs?

Yes. Drug impairment is treated the same as alcohol.

How long does a DUI case take?

Most cases take 4 weeks to 3 months.

Will a DUI affect employment?

Yes. A conviction can impact background checks and job opportunities.

What Is the Biggest Mistake After a DUI?

Waiting too long to get legal help.

Delays reduce your ability to challenge evidence and limit defense options.

Why Timing Matters in DUI Cases

Early legal action helps:

• Preserve critical evidence
• Identify legal issues
• Increase negotiation leverage

As Matthew A. Fraiberg emphasizes:

“Timing often determines whether a case can be reduced or dismissed.”

Why Clients Choose Fraiberg & Pernie

Clients choose Fraiberg & Pernie for a focused and strategic approach:

• More than 28 years of DUI defense experience
• Court-specific strategies across Michigan
• Aggressive evidence-based defense
• Fast response and clear communication

About Attorney Matthew A. Fraiberg

Matthew A. Fraiberg has decades of experience defending DUI and criminal cases throughout Michigan.

His background includes work as a prosecutor and judicial clerk, along with extensive courtroom practice. His approach focuses on challenging unreliable evidence, protecting driver’s licenses, and reducing criminal exposure.

Key Takeaways

• DUI charges do not automatically result in conviction
• Evidence quality determines most outcomes
• Many cases are reduced or dismissed
• Early legal action significantly improves results

Speak With a Michigan DUI Lawyer Today

If you have been arrested for DUI in Michigan:

• Act immediately
• Protect your license
• Build your defense early

Call (248) 986-2682 to schedule a confidential consultation.

Fraiberg & Pernie can evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation.