Drunk and Drugged Driving Defense in Michigan (OWI / DUI)

Being charged with drunk or drugged driving in Michigan can be overwhelming. You may be worried about your license, your job, and your future. These charges can carry serious penalties, including jail time, probation, fines, mandatory classes, and even felony charges if there are prior offenses or injuries involved. At Rabaa and Nachawati PLLC, we understand that a single traffic stop should not define you. As former prosecutors, we know how these cases are investigated, charged, and negotiated, and we use that insight to build strong, strategic defenses for our clients.

Understanding OWI/DUI Charges in Michigan

Michigan law prohibits operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or any intoxicating substance that affects your ability to drive safely. There are several different types of impaired driving charges, including:

• OWI (Operating While Intoxicated): Driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher, or showing visible signs of impairment.

• OWVI (Operating While Visibly Impaired): A lesser charge where the prosecution claims your ability to drive was noticeably affected, even without a high BAC.

• Super Drunk (High BAC) OWI: BAC of 0.17 or higher, which carries enhanced penalties.

• OWPD (Operating with Presence of a Schedule 1 Drug): Even trace amounts of certain drugs can result in charges, regardless of impairment.

• OWI Causing Injury or Death: Felony charges that can carry years of prison time.

Each charge requires a tailored defense depending on the facts, chemical testing, and the jurisdiction where the case is being handled.

What Evidence Matters in OWI Cases

The prosecution will attempt to prove impairment using multiple sources of evidence. We evaluate every detail to find weaknesses and challenge the case against you.

Key evidence includes:

• Dashcam and bodycam footage

• Breathalyzer machine calibration and maintenance history

• Blood test procedure chain of custody

• Field sobriety test administration

• Police reports and officer observations

• Witness statements or 911 call recordings

We analyze whether:

• The traffic stop was lawful

• The officer had probable cause to arrest you

• Tests were administered properly and legally

• Your constitutional rights were violated at any stage

Small errors in procedure can lead to suppressed evidence, weakened charges, or full dismissal.

Consequences of an OWI Conviction

A first-offense OWI can result in:

• Jail time

• Fines and court costs

• Probation requirements

• Community service

• Mandatory alcohol or drug education programs

• Driver’s license suspension or restrictions

• Installation of an ignition interlock device

Second or third offenses, or OWI involving injury or child passengers, carry significantly harsher penalties, including the possibility of a felony conviction.

But many of these outcomes are preventable with strong legal representation. Our goal is to help you avoid license loss, avoid jail, and avoid a permanent criminal record whenever possible.

Why Working With a Former Prosecutor Matters

At Rabaa and Nachawati PLLC, we know how prosecutors evaluate OWI cases and where the weaknesses typically are. We negotiate aggressively to reduce charges, secure entry into diversion programs, or challenge the case in court when necessary.

We are not here to judge you. We are here to protect your future.