How a DUI May Affect Your Future
According to the 2021 Michigan Annual Drunk Driving Audit, approximately 44.7% of all fatal traffic accidents in the state involve impairment due to alcohol or drugs.
Being charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) or OWI (operating while intoxicated) is a serious infraction. Laws in the state of Michigan include significant penalties related to such charges, but a DUI/OWI conviction can also have unforeseen effects on other areas of your life.
If you are either facing DUI/OWI charges or have already been convicted, it is important to be aware of the different ways in which your life may be impacted. Consulting with an experienced attorney can be beneficial to both understand your current situation and formulate a strategy to move forward to a more favorable future.
At Daniel J. Larin, P.C., we have guided many clients through the complex legal process related to DUI/OWI charges. If you are facing charges in Birmingham, Michigan, or the surrounding areas of Rochester Hills, Oakland County, Macomb County, or Wayne County, reach out to us today to discuss your situation.
Overview of DUI/OWI Penalties in Michigan
Under Michigan law, the charge commonly known as “driving under the influence” (DUI) is known as “operating while intoxicated” (OWI). Though there are varying degrees of penalties depending upon several factors (the number of prior offenses, your blood alcohol content, and other circumstances related to your specific incident), even the lowest level of offense carries serious consequences.
Not only does a conviction on charges of impaired driving result in time spent in jail and heavy fines, but there are also other penalties you can expect to face—in a few areas of your life.
Long-Term Consequences of a DUI/OWI Conviction
Even after you have made your way through the complicated legal process that results from a DUI/OWI conviction and fulfilled your legal obligations (jail time, fines, etc.), you will likely find many other ways in which having such an offense on your record will have a negative effect.
Loss of License
One obvious consequence of a DUI/OWI conviction is the loss of your driver’s license. Losing your ability to legally drive a vehicle will impact your life in a variety of ways, from employment to your simple freedom to enjoy social engagements.
Employment
In addition to the loss of your driving privileges impacting your employment situation, you will find that having a DUI/OWI conviction on your record can make it more difficult to keep your current job or find a new job. While jobs that involve operating a vehicle obviously require employees with clean driving records, even employers seeking to fill positions that are not related to driving are likely to be scared away from hiring someone with a DUI/OWI conviction in their background check.
Education
If you are a student, a DUI/OWI conviction can also impact your education. Some educational institutions take disciplinary action against students who receive DUI convictions, including suspension or expulsion. If you are applying for scholarships or financial aid, such a conviction on your record can affect your ability to be approved.
Auto Insurance
If you are convicted of a DUI, you will see a significant increase in your auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies see such offenses as evidence of high-risk behavior, which can lead to substantial premium hikes or even the cancellation of your policy entirely. This means that even if you do regain your license in the future, driving a vehicle will be a much larger expense.
Professional & Personal Relationships
The negative effects of a DUI/OWI conviction are not limited to your professional or educational pursuits. Your personal and family relationships can be damaged as well. Issues arising from your conviction can pop up in your divorce or child custody disputes. Your conviction could add stress to your family surrounding the loss of respect or reputation among your friends and loved ones. It's safe to say that a drunk driving charge can have far-reaching impacts.
The Importance of Working With an Attorney
If you have been charged with a DUI/OWI, you are likely already seeing some of the negative effects it is having on your life. Going through this situation on your own will not make things any easier. When you are looking for help to get through this difficult experience and pick up the pieces to move forward, turning to a knowledgeable attorney can give you a sense of relief. A skilled attorney with experience in guiding people through the DUI/OWI process can help you understand your situation, explain the options that may be available to you, and work with you to create a strategy that can help you get back on your feet.
Your Future Is Worth Fighting For
You may be facing an uphill battle following your DUI/OWI conviction, but you can still look forward to an improved situation in the future. At Daniel J. Larin, P.C., we are proud to represent a wide range of clients who are looking for help with a variety of legal issues. If you are facing a DUI/OWI charge in Wayne County, Macomb County, Oakland County, Rochester Hills, the Birmingham/Bloomfield area, or any other cities in Michigan, contact us to schedule a consultation.