Imagine that one moment you’re pulled over on suspicion of impaired driving, and the next you’re in handcuffs, your car is being towed, and your future feels uncertain. If you’re wondering what happens after a DUI arrest in Michigan, you’re not alone—and you’re not without options.
Michigan takes DUI cases seriously, and the legal process moves quickly. From the initial arrest to license consequences, court appearances, and potential penalties, every step matters. If you know what to expect, it can help you stay one step ahead and make the right choices for your defense.
Step 1: The Arrest and Chemical Testing
When you’re pulled over and suspected of Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), an officer may ask you to complete a series of field sobriety tests and a preliminary breath test (PBT) on the spot. If you’re arrested, you’ll be taken to the police station for a more accurate chemical test, either through breath, blood, or urine.
Refusing the chemical test (not the roadside PBT) can lead to automatic license suspension under Michigan’s Implied Consent Law.
Step 2: Vehicle Impoundment
Following a DUI arrest, your vehicle may be towed or impounded, especially if there are prior offenses or aggravating circumstances. You’ll likely be responsible for towing and storage fees to get your car back.
Step 3: Bond and Release Conditions
Once processed, you may be released on bond or held for a hearing. If released, the judge might impose conditions such as:
- No alcohol or drug use
- Random drug or alcohol testing
- Travel restrictions
These conditions must be followed strictly—violating them can lead to bond revocation or additional charges.
Step 4: Arraignment and Formal Charges
Next, you’ll attend an arraignment, where a judge will read the formal charges against you. In most first-time DUI cases, the charge will be Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) or Operating While Visibly Impaired (OWVI). You’ll enter a plea—usually “not guilty” at this stage—and the court will set future hearing dates.
Understanding what happens after a DUI arrest in Michigan means preparing for the legal process to move fast. Hiring a skilled DUI attorney in Michigan before your arraignment can make a huge difference.
Step 5: Administrative Driver’s License Action
Apart from court, the Michigan Secretary of State office will take administrative action against your driver’s license:
- First OWI offense: 6-month suspension (eligible for restricted license after 30 days)
- Refusal to submit to chemical test: 1-year suspension (no restricted license available for 90 days)
You have 14 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to challenge the implied consent suspension. Don’t miss this deadline as it’s one of the few opportunities to keep your driving privileges.
Step 6: Pretrial, Plea Bargain, or Trial
As your case progresses, your lawyer may work with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal—such as reducing an OWI to a lesser offense like Operating While Impaired. If no agreement is reached, your case may proceed to trial.
This is when having an experienced DUI lawyer in Michigan becomes critical. The right defense can:
- Challenge the legality of the traffic stop
- Question the accuracy of breath or blood tests
- Present evidence of improper police conduct
Step 7: Sentencing and Penalties
If you’re convicted or plead guilty, the court will issue a sentence. For a first-time DUI offense, penalties can include:
- Up to 93 days in jail
- Fines up to $500
- Community service
- Mandatory alcohol education or treatment
- 6 points added to your driving record
Sentencing increases significantly for second or third offenses, high BAC levels (0.17 or higher), or if minors were in the vehicle.
Why Legal Representation Matters After a DUI Arrest
If you’re wondering what happens after a DUI arrest in Michigan, one thing is clear: the system moves fast, and the consequences can follow you for years. But with the right legal defense, you may be able to protect your license, avoid jail time, and keep a conviction off your record.
You need an experienced DUI lawyer in Michigan, like the Law Office of Kevin Bessant & Associates to guide you through the process, advocate for your rights, and help you make smart, informed decisions.
Conclusion
A DUI arrest doesn’t have to define your future. Now that you understand what happens after a DUI arrest in Michigan, you can take steps to defend yourself and limit the impact on your life. Time is not on your side—get help fast and start building a defense that protects what matters most.